How to Achieve True Digital Manufacturing with SAP
Understanding the Evolution of Digital Manufacturing Solutions
In today's fast-evolving Digital Manufacturing landscape, staying ahead with the latest technology is critical. Engineering Industries Excellence continues to demonstrate our leadership by focusing on driving manufacturing client successes. For those invested in SAP manufacturing solutions like SAP Manufacturing Execution (ME), SAP Manufacturing Intelligence & Integration (MII) and SAP Plant Connectivity (PCo), dwindling support and maintenance timelines have influenced a strategic migration to advanced platforms such as SAP Digital Manufacturing (SAP DM).
Why Making the Transition is Important
For years, manufacturers have embraced the implementation of automation and digitalization to enhance operational efficiency. However, as technology evolves, so must the systems that support it. If your company is using SAP ME or SAP MII, it’s time to consider transitioning to SAP DM to leverage the latest advancements and movement toward Industry 5.0. Our structured approach ensures a smooth migration, minimizing risks and maximizing returns.
Existing Legacy Solutions: SAP Manufacturing Execution (ME) & SAP Manufacturing Intelligence and Integration (MII)
SAP ME is a robust solution that empowers manufacturers to manage and control shop floor operations. It integrates business systems with the shop floor, providing visibility across all levels of production and ensuring quality and traceability throughout the product lifecycle. Key features include:
- Real-time Visibility: Provides users with real-time insights across the enterprise.
- Efficient Production Management: Tracks and manages work-in-progress to ensure timely production.
- Quality Control: Reduces variation and prevents defects with corrective action processes.
- Operational Efficiency: Improves equipment effectiveness and facilitates predictive maintenance.
SAP MII connects plant operations with enterprise systems, enabling seamless data flow and analytics. It enhances productivity and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by providing insights into plant performance and integrating intelligent business processes. Key features include:
- Enhanced Visibility: Offers a clear view of plant resources and integrates data from sensors and business users.
- Energy Monitoring: Simplifies monitoring and analysis of energy resources.
- Performance Insights: Identifies root causes of downtime and quality issues with advanced analytics.
Challenges Addressed by SAP Digital Manufacturing
Modern manufacturing faces several challenges, including IT and OT inefficiencies, lack of real-time data synchronization and difficulties in scaling operations. SAP DM addresses these issues by connecting people, processes and systems, providing global insight into production and results.
Features and Benefits of SAP DM
SAP DM enhances continuous improvement initiatives with AI, machine learning and root-cause analysis, ensuring higher customer satisfaction through customization while maintaining productivity and quality. Features and benefits of SAP DM include:
- Out-of-the-Box Integration: Seamlessly integrates with SAP S/4 HANA, SAP ERP and legacy SAP ME/MII systems
- Advanced Analytics: Utilizes advanced analytics for pattern detection and performance improvements
- Real-time Visibility: Offers real-time visibility into manufacturing processes both locally and globally
- Resource Optimization: Optimizes resources based on current workflows and Industry 4.0 scenarios
- Cloud-Based Cost-Savings: Provides cost savings on infrastructure, operations and maintenance.
Our Structured Migration Approach
Manufacturing System Pathfinder Assessment
Duration:
- 2-4 weeks
Activities:
- Assess current SAP ME/MII system functionalities
- Map current system capabilities to SAP DM
- Align with the SAP roadmap for a strategic implementation
- Identify and document migration risks
SAP Digital Manufacturing Implementation
Duration:
- Typically 3-6 months
Activities:
- Design, build, test and realize SAP DM implementation
- Ensure industry best practices
- Leverage results from the SAP ME/MII migration assessment
- Minimize risks while maximizing return on investment (ROI)
In Conclusion: Evaluating the Move
Transitioning from old technologies to SAP Digital Manufacturing is a strategic move that guarantees enhanced operational efficiency, seamless data integration and advanced analytics capabilities. Engineering Industries eXcellence is committed to making this transition seamless, ensuring manufacturing operations remain competitive and innovative in the era of Industry 5.0. Our team can provide a detailed consultation and tailored migration plan that aligns with your specific business needs and goals. Together, we can take your success to new heights by assisting your migration journey with future-proof manufacturing solutions.
Engineering’s Expertise
Engineering Industries eXcellence is a long-standing, trusted SAP partner and strategic advisor for digital transformation. Our global team of Digital Manufacturing experts helps businesses enhance manufacturing operations and productivity. Our specialists have cross-industry expertise in both process and discrete manufacturing sectors, supporting clients through every stage of implementation and customization. By leveraging innovative techniques and integration expertise, we help companies optimize processes, minimize rework, reduce costs and improve throughput. For over a decade, we have delivered measurable results and tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of industrial organizations, driving cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
