Question 1

Are there any empirical values for the change to SAP S/4HANA?

Accepted Answer

Many ifm customers have already switched to SAP S/4HANA. We have supported the process technically and professionally.

Question 2

What help do I need when switching to SAP S/4HANA with a greenfield approach?

Accepted Answer

We recommend involving our process consultants, because in the greenfield approach, technical expertise is the driver of the changeover.

Make an appointment now!

Question 3

What help do I need when switching to SAP S/4HANA with a brownfield approach?

Accepted Answer

The focus here is on the technical aspect. We, therefore, recommend the involvement of our experts from the Software Logistics and Technology (SoLT) sector.

We will be happy to advise you on this

Question 4

Do you have any experience with a shell conversion to SAP S/4HANA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, numerous changeover projects have already been accompanied.

Question 5

Which SAP S/4HANA cloud models are supported by ifm?

Accepted Answer

Our software can be used in the private cloud as well as hybrid. Some apps are already optimised for the public cloud.

Question 6

What is the SCX indicator?

Accepted Answer

The SCX indicator shows at a glance whether your supply chain is functioning across all process stages of your intralogistics.

Question 7

I would like to use the Supply Chain Excellence indicator system. Do I have to use the ifm solution for this?

Accepted Answer

No, the indicators are based on SAP Core. No ifm application is required. However, Supply Chain Excellence is currently only licensed in coupling with at least one ifm solution.

Question 8

Is Supply Chain Excellence also available as a licensed product or only as a subscription?

Accepted Answer

Supply Chain Excellence is only available as a subscription (rental model).

Question 9

Does Supply Chain Excellence also run on SAP ECC 6.0?

Accepted Answer

No, Supply Chain Excellence only runs on SAP S/4HANA.

Question 10

Does Supply Chain Excellence replace GIB Suite in the SAP S/4HANA environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, GIB Suite cannot be operated in the SAP S/4HANA environment. However, Supply Chain Excellence is not just a "successor software", but has a significantly extended range of functions, includes the globally unique indicator model and can not only be used for the operational control of the supply chain but also enables planning and control at a strategic level.

Question 11

Will the proven SAP GUI be retained in Supply Chain Excellence?

Accepted Answer

The new functionalities, e.g. the indicator model, can only be used with the new Fiori interface. However, the classic functionalities are also available in the proven SAP GUI.

Question 12

Is Supply Chain Excellence available as a Fiori app?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all functionalities that can be reasonably mapped as a Fiori app are available in this user-friendly, modern design and the corresponding logic.

Question 13

What are the Supply Chain Excellence process indicators?

Accepted Answer

The Supply Chain Excellence indicator reflects a percentage of the quality of the supply chain across all five process steps. The next question that arises is inevitable: In which area is it going well and in which less? Therefore, the user can call up the level below the main indicator and obtain the process indicators for the process sections Demand Planning, Manufacturing, Procurement, Inventory Management and Sales & Distribution.

Question 14

What is the difference between GIB Suite and Supply Chain Excellence?

Accepted Answer

GIB Suite runs on SAP ECC 6.0, and Supply Chain Excellence (SCX) on SAP S/4HANA. In addition, the range of functions has been significantly expanded in the new SCX and the solution includes the indicator model for checking the quality of your supply chain processes. In addition, the app is built with modern Fiori technology and is therefore even more user-friendly.

Question 15

What is the APEO principle?

Accepted Answer

To successfully master the constant challenges of the supply chain, intelligent and reliable tools and processes are required. The APEO principle offers a clear structure and is embedded in a high-performance software system that reliably navigates you through complex supply chain processes. APEO stands for analysis, plan, execution and optimisation.

Question 16

Where does the data for the indicators come from?

Accepted Answer

The indicator is fed directly from the SAP Core.

Question 17

What is the point of the indicators? What is the benefit?

Accepted Answer

The indicators enable objective comparability of processes within a company and comparability with other companies. The indicator logic works across industries and always shows the incorruptible truth from the SAP Core and transparency in all process sections of the supply chain.

Question 18

What does SCX stand for?

Accepted Answer

SCX stands for Supply Chain Excellence.

Question 19

Does Supply Chain Excellence have to be purchased as a complete suite?

Accepted Answer

No. You have the option of renting individual solutions (Procurement, Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Demand Planning).

Question 20

Which design interface does Supply Chain Excellence use?

Accepted Answer

Supply Chain Excellence is Fiori-based but offers - if required - the full view in the proven SAP GUI.

Question 21

Is Supply Chain Excellence a strategic or operational planning solution?

Accepted Answer

Our solution has a holistic planning approach, which has a basic strategic idea, but rather shows its full performance in the operational implementation. We see ourselves as a tactical-operational link between the deeply strategic SAP solution and the daily business.

Question 22

How can I get a first insight into the solution possibilities of Supply Chain Excellence?

Accepted Answer

On our landing page you will find a lot of information and videos about Supply Chain Excellence. Feel free to request a no-obligation web demo.

Question 23

Is it transparent on which KPIs the SCX indicator system is based?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the user can drill down from the top aggregation level to the sum of the KPIs and thus reliably understand which key figures are used for which process indicator. All key figures and indicators are calculated from the SAP Core data pool.

Question 24

What is the difference between GIB Suite Planning and Supply Chain Excellence Manufacturing on SAP S/4HANA?

Accepted Answer

Supply Chain Excellence is based on a completely new technological foundation that offers significantly more possibilities than the original SAP ECC 6.0 system. This means that the functional scope of Supply Chain Excellence Manufacturing goes significantly beyond the proven GIB Planning. In addition, only in connection with GIB Manufacturing is it possible to use cloud-based apps, for example, Shopfloor Terminal and Mobile Planning, as well as Factory Optimisation Excellence (FOX) shortly.

Question 25

Is it possible to run simulations in Supply Chain Excellence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the simulation option is one of the central components in Supply Chain Excellence and can be carried out at all crucial points to calculate different scenarios.

Question 26

Is it possible to create graphics in Supply Chain Excellence or must the data be exported for this?

Accepted Answer

Supply Chain Excellence offers the possibility of graphical representation in almost all overviews and tables. This makes the extensive set of figures meaningful to the user at a glance.

Question 27

Are there any interface issues with the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

NO. The GIB Suite is fully integrated into SAP and therefore runs without any interfaces.

Question 28

Does the GIB Suite include certification?

Accepted Answer

YES. The GIB Suite has both “SAP Certified – Powered by SAP Netweaver” certification and “SAP Certified – Integration with SAP S/4HANA” certification.

Question 29

Is the GIB Suite in competition with SAP Standard?

Accepted Answer

NO. The GIB Suite offers an operational enhancement with special functions that close the white spaces related to SCM in the standard SAP system. Furthermore, the GIB Suite focuses primarily on providing user-friendly solutions that can be rapidly implemented for small and medium-size enterprises.

Question 30

Is the GIB Suite also available in other languages?

Accepted Answer

YES. The GIB Suite is fully available in both German and English. In addition, around 20 other language variants are available for practically every application. The languages include Russian, Chinese, French, and so on. Please feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Question 31

What is the benefit of the GIB Suite in comparison to Excel solutions?

Accepted Answer

The GIB Suite provides operational analysis capabilities that go far beyond those of a typical Excel spreadsheet. It also includes a greater range of functions and is much more user friendly, because GIB applications are fully integrated into the SAP system, which means that all activities and data are read and written in a direct exchange, in real time. This ensures that users have constant access to the latest information. There is no need to switch back and forth between applications, which also avoids transmission errors. Since everything is mapped centrally in one system, there are no information islands within the company.

Question 32

Does the GIB Suite map the S&OP process?

Accepted Answer

YES. The individual applications in the GB Suite communicate with each other. This ensures that the information from sales planning can be incorporated into downstream planning scenarios. Once the optimal plan has been established, the results and findings from the planning process and the simulation and implementation phases are incorporated into the optimization phase and have a direct influence on the subsequent analysis and planning process. The result is a planning cycle comprised of analysis, planning, execution and optimization.

The synergies from combining all the modules in the GIB Suite provide an even greater benefit than using each module individually. The use of the GIB Suite has led to more sustainable success and greater results than the sum of the success from using the individual modules.

Question 33

What is the implementation time for a GIB Suite solution?

Accepted Answer

The implementation times differ based on the scope and focus of the project. However, best-practice experiences have shown an unusually short introduction period. From the kick-off date to the go-live date, the GIB Suite modules can generally be implemented within two to three months on average.

Question 34

For which kinds of company is the GIB Suite suitable?

Accepted Answer

Our SCM solution is suitable for practically every sector and company size, and is especially suitable for small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs). Companies that currently deploy the GIB Suite are active in the automotive, aeronautical engineering, food and chemicals industries, machine and plant engineering and other sectors.

Question 35

What are the positive effects of introducing the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

The introduction of the GIB Suite has many positive effects. Some of the most relevant ones include:

Highly dynamic and constantly updated master data synchronization and adaptation
An increase in service levels alongside a reduction in stock levels
Continuous process mapping from sales planning to detailed production scheduling
Quick access to information for better operational and strategic decision making
Planning of dynamic supply chains through simulation scenarios

Question 36

How can I tell whether my master data is sufficiently maintained for the introduction of the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

Experience has shown that master data maintenance is a weak point with negative side effects for many companies. For instance, weak master data can often lead people to bypass planning in the SAP system. As a result, the SAP system is no longer used as the principal system and its benefits to the user are lost.

The GIB Suite is fully integrated into SAP and therefore has access to the data in the standard SAP system, including data from material documents, MRP runs, BOMs, task lists, and so on. As a result, the implementation does not require a special depth of master data. Since well maintained master data is an important factor for success in optimizing supply chain processes, the GIB Suite assists with continuous updates.

Question 37

How is support and maintenance governed for the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

A range of support and maintenance options are available in addition to the GIB Suite license, and free consultation on these topics is also provided. Once you have made your decision, appropriate agreements will be drawn up. We guarantee binding response times and extensive support services in German and English, including installation and upgrades to new releases, for instance.

Question 38

Can changes be made to the scope of functions provided with the GIB Suite at a later stage?

Accepted Answer

YES. As a solution with full SAP integration, the GIP Suite provides a wide range of layouts that allow you to independently integrate additional information. User training is provided in the GIB Academy.

Furthermore, GIB provides a convenient ticket system that all customers can access and use to submit individual change requests. We provide a detailed estimate of the time and effort required so that you can factor this into your decision making. Once your order is placed, our GIB experts can simply make the program changes remotely.

Question 39

How often are new releases provided in the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

A new release of the GIB Suite is made available for download by our customers once a year as part of the maintenance agreement.

Question 40

What is the authorization concept for the individual function modules in the GIB Suite?

Accepted Answer

Following their purchase of the GIB Suite, customers are provided with their own authorization concept based on SAP authorizations. This concept is intended as an “all-round hassle-free package” for each application module for the various areas of responsibility within the company.

Alongside tailored sample authorization roles, GIB provides its own authorization objects for controlling the tasks in the application modules. Access to tables is also provided through custom table authorization groups.

Question 41

Is the GIB Suite on SAP ECC 6.0 still available for purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the GIB Suite is still functional and will continue to be maintained until SAP discontinues the SAP ECC 6.0 release. As far as possible, further developments of the successor product Supply Chain Excellence on S/4HANA will also be downgraded. However, this is not technically possible for many features.

Question 42

Is SFI an MES system?

Accepted Answer

No, SFI is a universal interface for integrating IoT data (IoT = Internet of Things) into SAP ERP processes. This data often, but not exclusively, comes from production environments. SFI can also record data that is not relevant to MES systems (e.g.: compressed air consumption, valve wear or oil quality). SFI can thus be used effectively alongside an MES system.

Question 43

Does SFI require middleware?

Accepted Answer

SFI does not necessarily require middleware, but this is often the ideal way to integrate sensor data. The middleware turns big data into smart data and offers additional functions such as monitoring of limit values and detailed fault analysis. Furthermore, middleware ensures a high degree of scalability for the shop floor environment.

Question 44

Which processes in SAP ERP are supported?

Accepted Answer

SFI is basically designed for integration in any ERP process. Through our RTM component (RTM = Real Time Maintenance), we now provide integration with SAP PM (Plant Maintenance). That means the automated creation of maintenance notifications, maintenance orders and measurement documents, which in turn accelerates processes and provides quality assurance. The first functions for integration in SAP supply chain processes are available now or are on the roadmap for the upcoming release.

One such example is automatic repeat ordering or stock reservation for consumable materials. SFI is also capable of requesting and storing measurement documents for a multitude of SAP objects (such as equipment, functional locations and production tools). It can therefore be used to support energy data monitoring, for instance.

Question 45

Can I implement SFI on R/3 and migrate to S/4?

Accepted Answer

This is possible without further ado.

Question 46

How can I reduce my spare parts inventories?

Accepted Answer

If you measure the actual wear and tear on parts, then you need to keep fewer spare parts in stock. Needs-based maintenance means that fewer spare parts are required in general.

Question 47

What requirements must be met on the SAP side to use SFI?

Accepted Answer

Supported ERP releases:

SAP ERP 6.0 EhP7/EhP8
SAP S/4HANA on-premises 2022/2023

Question 48

Do I have to worry about my SAP system becoming flooded with documents?

Accepted Answer

Both standard IoT platforms and SFI itself provide functions for checking that data is valid and avoiding unwanted documents.

Question 49

Which protocols does SFI use for communication?

Accepted Answer

Outgoing connections are implemented via RFC connections. Incoming connections are implemented via HTTPS and REST interface.

Question 50

How can unplanned downtimes be reduced with SFI?

Accepted Answer

The early, sensor-aided detection of potential faults lets you integrate downtimes into your detailed production planning in the optimum way. Actual component wear determines the maintenance intervals and measures.

Question 51

How compatible is it with products from third-party providers?

Accepted Answer

We have the capabilities to offer a holistic solution in combination with the hardware and software products from our business group. SFI is generally open to IoT hardware and platforms from other providers.

Question 52

Which IoT source systems can be connected to SFI?

Accepted Answer

Any condition monitoring systems (CMS) and IoT/IIoT platforms that have an open API can be connected. At present, connections to ifm moneo, iba HD-Server and the io-key cloud are available straight out of the box. There are also other platforms on the roadmap.

Question 53

How is the data captured?

Accepted Answer

The journey begins with the collection of data from sensors and/or the reading of controls. This is passed to the middleware via edge components that can handle the multitude of possible protocols. There the data is aggregated, stored, visualised and pre-processed before being sent to the SFI.

Question 54

Can SFI be used in existing systems?

Accepted Answer

With retrofitting, older systems can also be monitored. Plug-and-play functionality enables you to install sensors for capturing data. The data can then be integrated into SAP with little effort or expense.

Question 55

Which sensor manufacturers are supported?

Accepted Answer

SFI is based on a number of different IoT platforms. For SFI, it does not matter which sensors these platforms use. At ifm, we can supply all the components you need from one single source if necessary. The ifm IoT platforms are compatible with all standard sensors from other manufacturers.

Question 56

Which data can be captured and transferred?

Accepted Answer

At present, the focus is on sensor and controller data that is relevant to maintenance. However, there are no limits to its potential uses. The solution can be used in the widest variety of sectors and environments.

Question 57

What expenses do I have to factor in for the rollout of SFI?

Accepted Answer

The first proofs of concept (PoCs) are available in roughly two project weeks. Up to three application scenarios can usually then be implemented (e.g. vibration analysis, valve monitoring, motor current monitoring from the controller).

Question 58

Has SFI been developed according to the latest security specifications?

Accepted Answer

All SFI applications in SAP are provided with authorization checks that prevent unauthorized access. Furthermore, communication between SFI and the connected IoT platform is encrypted with SSL.

Question 59

How quickly can I connect a new sensor?

Accepted Answer

A sensor from an IoT platform can be integrated in SAP in under 10 minutes.

Question 60

What do I need to know about the cloud?

Accepted Answer

Various cloud models in the SAP world are fundamentally different from the on-premises world. Each model has its advantages and disadvantages.

Question 61

Where can I find out more about cloud vs on-premises?

Accepted Answer

You can find more information in our three-part blog series:

Question 62

Is my data safe in the cloud?

Accepted Answer

There is much to suggest that data protection in the cloud is more professional than in a private cloud or a self-operated on-premises system. This is often due to the fact that professional cloud providers, because of their business model, always use the latest virus defence, carry out regular stress tests and keep their employees up-to-date with the latest developments. Companies that do not operate professional data storage often lack the means and possibilities to do this.

Question 63

Do you also offer consulting outside of your software solutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can also request our experienced process consultants for your regular supply chain processes.

We are happy to take the time to answer your questions!

Question 64

Is process consulting available for the introduction of Supply Chain Excellence?

Accepted Answer

The subscription model includes one consultant day per quarter during the entire term. Additional days can be booked at any time

FAQs Frequently asked questions

Change to SAP S/4HANA

Supply Chain Excellence

GIB Suite

Shop Floor Integration SFI

Cloud vs. On-Premises

Process consulting

General questions

Glossary

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