A digital supply chain expert has initiated a fresh collaboration with a world-renowned manufacturer of ejection seats and aviation safety equipment. This engagement is intended to increase operational efficiency and prepare the organisation for future demands through modifications to its SAP enterprise structure and additional SAP improvements.
The consultancy has previously delivered several projects for this customer, including the deployment of the PreBilt™ solution. This implementation greatly increased operational visibility, reduced manual processes, and provided a more intuitive experience for personnel.
Transition to SAP S/4HANA
As part of its digital modernisation, the manufacturer is transitioning from SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA, selecting a brownfield implementation. This approach necessitated a review of the existing enterprise structure, which had been unchanged with one plant and one warehouse, despite the company functions across three UK sites.
In early 2024, the consultancy was commissioned to carry out a feasibility study and provide targeted recommendations aligned with SAP best practices. The proposal recommended the completion of the S/4HANA upgrade prior to making a revised enterprise structure, suggesting the adoption of two plants and three warehouses.
Upcoming Implementation Phase
With the S/4HANA upgrade in the final stages, the customer is now proceeding with the recommended enterprise structure changes. Additional system modifications identified during requirements gathering are also set for implementation. These include upgrades to PreBilt and modifications to SAP to support inter-site stock transfers and Available to Promise (ATP) functionality.
Detailed Assessment and PoC Activities
- Thorough review to support inter-site transfers and ATP requirements.
- Prototype in the sandbox environment demonstrating the proposed structure changes.
- Playback of high-level design to key stakeholders, supported by design files and future-phase recommendations.
- Review of enhancement needs for the PreBilt mobility solution.
- Finalisation on the strategy for inventory transfer and master data alignment.
- Definition of next steps for design and implementation phases.
a knockout post
Rachel Greenwood, Head of the Digital Supply Chain Practice at the consultancy, commented on the collaboration: “The team is happy to maintain working with this long-standing customer on a project that will strengthen the long-term capability of its SAP environment. With a deep understanding of both the system and the customer’s operations, a strong foundation has been established for successful delivery.”