Process of an SAP IBP implementation
A good database paves the way to a successful implementation
An SAP IBP implementation begins with a finished concept or proof of concept that we have created together with you. Below you will discover proven strategies for the successful implementation of IBP and how you can minimise the effort involved. When integrating SAP IBP into existing system landscapes, the main challenges lie primarily in the area of master data. You can find out what to look out for and how to minimise your costs below or in a free consultation.
If you have created a concept with another partner, we will check the concept against your current or planned processes to see whether it makes sense and is feasible. We recommend this step because we have found that many concepts have been defined incorrectly or are not feasible, with large gaps in the process integration.
With a well-founded concept and defined user stories, we can start the implementation. How this works and what to look out for is described below.
Each module contains a specific range of functions and must be licensed individually. Since you probably won't need all of the modules, we'll help you choose the right modules to achieve the greatest business impact and ROI at the lowest cost.
Technical integration of SAP IBP
From a technical perspective, the integration of SAP IBP into the existing system landscape is comparatively simple, as SAP IBP is decoupled from the on-premise world thanks to its cloud architecture. This not only eliminates the need for extensive software updates, but also the need to take specific release statuses into account. In addition, SAP automatically updates the SAP IBP SaaS solution and continuously delivers new function updates, making maintenance extremely convenient. With our SAP IBP support, your system will always be up to date, even after implementation, by recommending, introducing and training you in all the new features that are helpful to you.
Interaction between SAP IBP und your ERP
SAP IBP is a standalone system in the cloud, hosted by SAP. Thus it isnot embedded in your S/4Hana system, ECC or R/3 system. Our implementation service is not only limited to the configuration and design of the SAP IBP system, but also includesImplementation of the interface as well as possible extension implementations in your SAP ERP system. SAP IBP can also be connected to other ERP systems without an SAP ERP system. If non-SAP systems are connected, we also implement the interface; in this case we do not provide the data.
The data exchange with external systems is carried out by the SAP ERP add-on for IBP for SAP ECC and S/4HANA as well as various integrated interfaces that are already included in SAP IBP. In this way, for example, important Planning data like sales history get merged "out of the box" into SAP IBP.
CIDS (Cloud Integration for Data Services), the SAP IBP interface, is also available for this purpose, which accesses SAP ERP systems, Business Warehouse (BW) systems, external tools or tables in order to transfer the data to SAP IBP.
Challenges and problems with SAP IBP implementation
When implementing SAP IBP, fully created and maintained production versions are of crucial importance. We therefore work with companies to check their master data and have it completed if necessary to ensure that production versions are available for all materials/products manufactured in-house. Furthermore, correct mapping of transport relationships and intercompany processes is important in order to implement and integrate the entire network in SAP IBP in accordance with standards. A realistic assessment of capacities and the quality of work schedules are also crucial to ensure smooth production planning. With our many years of expertise from numerous successful project implementations, we are always at your side.
Minimize implementation time and costs
In order to minimise costs and time for the challenges described, an efficient approach is of great importance. Unnecessary delays can be avoided by thoroughly analysing the existing master data and completing it in a targeted manner. It is also advisable to draw on proven best practices and standardised processes to reduce implementation time. Close cooperation with experienced experts who have many years of experience in IBP implementation is of great benefit. Thanks to our in-depth expertise, confirmed by our references, we can deliver effective solutions and help to identify and eliminate potential pitfalls at an early stage. Clear project planning with realistic goals and milestones is crucial to manage the process efficiently and avoid unnecessary costs. Careful resource planning and training of the employees involved will also increase efficiency during implementation. These strategic approaches can significantly minimise costs and time during the implementation of SAP IBP.