SAP S/4HANA offers a comprehensive solution that covers all processes in a manufacturing company. In this article, we introduce three new modules that enhance product development and manufacturing processes:
- ECTR (Engineering Control Center) for product development
- PEO (Extended Production Engineering and Operations) for production engineering and operations
- PP/DS (Production Planning and Detailed Scheduling) for production planning with limited capacities
These modules are particularly suited for manufacturing engineering companies with custom and small-batch production, where design departments develop their own products.
Process Overview
- Product Design in ECTR: The designer begins in SAP (ECTR module) by creating or opening an existing directory. Using the “Open original for editing” option, the designer opens a design program (e.g., SOLIDWORKS) to create the new model. Once saved, the model is stored in SAP.
In ECTR, new material cards and versioned construction BOMs are generated, both of which are stored directly in SAP.
- Production Engineering in PEO: The technologist copies the design BOM to a production BOM using the “Copy BOM” icon and may make adjustments before releasing it for production. A workflow is created, where the technologist can insert work instructions, schematics, and attach production aids.
- Planning in PP/DS: PP/DS plans for limited capacities and smooths the production plan using customer-defined heuristics. The entire planning process occurs directly in the core of SAP S/4HANA, making re-planning quick and efficient. The system automatically generates the necessary production orders based on MRP and stock levels.
- Production Execution: Once production orders are released, the production manager assigns activities to specific workers. Workers receive assignments on their mobile devices and record their progress in SAP. The shift manager monitors production status, addressing issues like delays or material shortages as they arise.
- Version Control: To prevent retroactive changes to released versions, SAP S/4HANA uses versioning for BOMs and procedures. Any necessary changes are made by creating a new version, ensuring all affected items are updated and tracked.
For more details on these modules, stay tuned for upcoming posts.
Contact Information:
- Ivo Procházka, Sales Manager: ivo.prochazka@ness.com, +420 774 655 079
- Ivona Berková, SAP Consultant: ivona.berkova@ness.com, +420 702 268 092