Streamlining Warehouse Operations with SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM)

PART I: Introduction to SAP EWM

Overview of SAP EWM

SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) is a software solution designed to manage and optimize warehouse processes. It is a part of the SAP Supply Chain Management (SCM) suite of applications and is typically used in manufacturing, distribution, and retail industries.

Here are some of the key features and functionalities of SAP EWM:

·???????? Inventory Management: SAP EWM provides real-time visibility into inventory levels and locations, enabling warehouse managers to manage inventory more efficiently.

·???????? Inbound Processing: The solution streamlines inbound processes, including goods receipt and putaway, by automating tasks and reducing manual processes.

·???????? Outbound Processing: SAP EWM also simplifies outbound processes, such as order picking and packing, by providing advanced warehouse management tools that improve efficiency and accuracy.

·???????? Cross-docking: SAP EWM provides cross-docking capabilities, which allows for the seamless transfer of goods from inbound to outbound without the need for intermediate storage.

·???????? Yard Management: The solution includes features for managing yard operations, such as loading and unloading, as well as trailer and dock scheduling.

·???????? Labor Management: SAP EWM includes tools for managing and optimizing labor resources, such as task allocation, performance monitoring, and incentive programs.

·???????? Advanced Analytics: The solution offers advanced analytics capabilities, enabling warehouse managers to make data-driven decisions and optimize operations.

·???????? Mobile Support: SAP EWM supports mobile devices, allowing workers to access information and complete tasks from anywhere in the warehouse.

In summary, SAP EWM is a comprehensive warehouse management solution that provides advanced features and functionalities for optimizing warehouse operations, enhancing inventory accuracy, and improving overall efficiency.

EWM Processes

SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) includes a range of processes and functions designed to streamline warehouse management and optimize operations. Here is an overview of some of the key processes and functions in EWM:

·???????? Inbound Process: The inbound process includes the receipt of goods into the warehouse, including goods receipt, quality inspection, and putaway. EWM supports various inbound processes, including advanced shipping notifications (ASN) and inbound deliveries.

·???????? Outbound Process: The outbound process involves the delivery of goods from the warehouse, including order picking, packing, and shipping. EWM supports various outbound processes, including wave picking, batch picking, and zone picking.

·???????? Inventory Management: EWM provides real-time visibility into inventory levels and locations, enabling warehouse managers to manage inventory more efficiently. This includes tracking inventory movements, performing inventory counts, and managing stock transfers.

·???????? Yard Management: EWM includes features for managing yard operations, such as loading and unloading, as well as trailer and dock scheduling.

·???????? Cross-Docking: EWM provides cross-docking capabilities, which allows for the seamless transfer of goods from inbound to outbound without the need for intermediate storage.

·???????? Labor Management: EWM includes tools for managing and optimizing labor resources, such as task allocation, performance monitoring, and incentive programs.

·???????? Slotting and Replenishment: EWM supports slotting and replenishment processes, enabling warehouse managers to optimize warehouse layouts and efficiently restock shelves.

·???????? Handling Unit Management: EWM provides handling unit management capabilities, allowing for the management of goods at the package or container level.

·???????? Quality Management: EWM supports quality management processes, including inspection, testing, and documentation of quality results.

·???????? Returns Management: EWM includes features for managing returns and reverse logistics, including return processing, product inspection, and restocking.

In summary, SAP EWM includes a range of processes and functions that streamline warehouse management and optimize operations. These include inbound and outbound processes, inventory management, yard management, cross-docking, labor management, slotting and replenishment, handling unit management, quality management, and returns management.

EWM Architecture and Integration

SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) architecture is designed to be highly flexible and scalable, allowing it to integrate with other SAP modules and third-party systems. Here is an overview of the EWM architecture and how it integrates with other SAP modules:

EWM Architecture: SAP EWM is built on top of the SAP NetWeaver platform, which provides a common infrastructure for all SAP applications. It consists of three layers: presentation layer, application layer, and database layer.

The presentation layer provides a user interface for warehouse managers and workers, allowing them to access EWM functions and data. The application layer contains the EWM application server and the EWM software components, which manage business processes and data. The database layer stores all EWM data in a central database, allowing for efficient data management and analysis.

Integration with Other SAP Modules: SAP EWM integrates with other SAP modules, such as SAP ERP, SAP Transportation Management (TM), and SAP Global Trade Services (GTS), to provide end-to-end supply chain management. EWM and ERP can be integrated using different methods, such as through the use of interfaces, which allow the exchange of data between the two systems.

The integration with SAP TM allows for better transportation planning and execution, while the integration with SAP GTS provides compliance and customs management capabilities. EWM can also be integrated with other third-party systems, such as warehouse control systems (WCS), warehouse execution systems (WES), and material handling equipment (MHE).

Integration Framework: SAP EWM includes an integration framework that enables the integration of third-party systems and non-SAP applications. This framework supports various integration methods, such as web services, IDoc (Intermediate Document) interface, and BAPI (Business Application Programming Interface).

In summary, SAP EWM architecture is built to be flexible and scalable, allowing for seamless integration with other SAP modules and third-party systems. The integration with other SAP modules is typically done through interfaces, while the integration with third-party systems is done through the EWM integration framework, which supports various integration methods.

PART II: EWM Functionality

Goods Receipt Processes

Goods receipt is a critical process in warehouse management, as it involves receiving and verifying inbound goods and updating inventory records. In SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management), the goods receipt process is designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Here's a brief overview of the goods receipt process in EWM:

·???????? Purchase Order Creation: The goods receipt process typically starts with the creation of a purchase order (PO) in the ERP system. The PO contains information about the goods to be received, such as the item description, quantity, and delivery date.

·???????? Inbound Delivery Creation: After the PO is created, an inbound delivery is generated in EWM. This delivery contains information about the goods that are expected to arrive, such as the delivery date, location, and carrier.

·???????? Goods Receipt Posting: When the goods arrive at the warehouse, the goods receipt posting process begins. This process involves verifying the contents of the delivery against the PO and updating inventory records. In EWM, the goods receipt posting can be done using various methods, such as by scanning barcodes or RFID tags, or by manually entering data into the system.

·???????? Putaway: After the goods receipt posting is completed, the goods are put away in their designated storage locations. EWM provides various putaway strategies to optimize the use of available storage space and reduce travel time for warehouse workers.

·???????? Quality Inspection: Depending on the nature of the goods, a quality inspection may be required before the goods are put away. In EWM, the quality inspection process can be integrated with other quality management systems, such as SAP Quality Management (QM).

·???????? Inbound Delivery Completion: Once the goods have been put away and the quality inspection, if any, has been completed, the inbound delivery is marked as completed in EWM.

In summary, the goods receipt process in SAP EWM involves creating an inbound delivery, receiving and verifying the goods, updating inventory records, putting away the goods in their designated locations, and completing the inbound delivery. The process is designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Goods Issue Processes

Goods issue is a key process in warehouse management, as it involves the removal of goods from inventory and the updating of relevant records. In SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management), the goods issue process is designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Here's a brief overview of the goods issue process in EWM:

·???????? Sales Order Creation: The goods issue process typically starts with the creation of a sales order in the ERP system. The sales order contains information about the goods to be shipped, such as the item description, quantity, and delivery date.

·???????? Outbound Delivery Creation: After the sales order is created, an outbound delivery is generated in EWM. This delivery contains information about the goods that are to be shipped, such as the delivery date, location, and carrier.

·???????? Goods Issue Posting: When the goods are ready to be shipped, the goods issue posting process begins. This process involves removing the goods from inventory and updating inventory records. In EWM, the goods issue posting can be done using various methods, such as by scanning barcodes or RFID tags, or by manually entering data into the system.

·???????? Pick and Pack: Before the goods can be shipped, they must be picked and packed. EWM provides various picking and packing strategies to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Shipping: After the goods have been picked and packed, they are ready to be shipped. EWM provides various shipping options, such as carrier selection, shipping route optimization, and shipment tracking.

·???????? Outbound Delivery Completion: Once the goods have been shipped, the outbound delivery is marked as completed in EWM.

In summary, the goods issue process in SAP EWM involves creating an outbound delivery, removing the goods from inventory, picking and packing the goods, shipping the goods, and completing the outbound delivery. The process is designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Internal Warehouse Processes

Internal warehouse processes are those that occur within the warehouse and involve the movement and storage of goods. In SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management), these processes are designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Here's a brief overview of the key internal warehouse processes in EWM:

·???????? Stock Transfer: Stock transfer involves moving goods from one storage location to another within the same warehouse. EWM provides various transfer strategies, such as direct transfer, two-step transfer, and cross-docking, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Replenishment: Replenishment involves moving goods from a bulk storage location to a picking location to ensure that the picking location always has enough inventory to fulfill customer orders. EWM provides various replenishment strategies, such as fixed bin replenishment, dynamic bin replenishment, and wave replenishment, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Inventory Counting: Inventory counting involves verifying the accuracy of inventory records by physically counting the goods in inventory. EWM provides various counting strategies, such as cycle counting, annual physical inventory, and continuous inventory counting, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Slotting: Slotting involves assigning goods to the most appropriate storage location based on their characteristics, such as size, weight, and demand. EWM provides various slotting strategies, such as ABC analysis, velocity analysis, and cross-merchandising analysis, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Value-Added Services: Value-added services (VAS) involve adding value to goods by performing additional processing, such as labeling, packaging, and kitting. EWM provides various VAS options, such as assembly processing, kit-to-order processing, and configuration processing, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Material Flow: Material flow involves optimizing the movement of goods within the warehouse by automating the routing and scheduling of goods movement. EWM provides various material flow options, such as conveyor systems, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and robotics, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

In summary, the internal warehouse processes in SAP EWM involve stock transfer, replenishment, inventory counting, slotting, value-added services, and material flow. The processes are designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Physical Inventory Processes

Physical inventory is a process that involves physically counting and verifying the accuracy of inventory records. In SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management), physical inventory processes are designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Here's a brief overview of the key physical inventory processes in EWM:

·???????? Cycle Counting: Cycle counting involves counting a portion of the inventory on a regular basis, rather than counting all of the inventory at once. EWM provides various cycle counting strategies, such as random sampling and ABC analysis, to optimize the use of available resources and reduce cycle time.

·???????? Annual Physical Inventory: Annual physical inventory involves counting all of the inventory in the warehouse at least once a year. EWM provides various options for annual physical inventory, such as using physical inventory documents, or performing inventory counts in batches.

·???????? Continuous Inventory Counting: Continuous inventory counting involves counting inventory on an ongoing basis, rather than at scheduled intervals. EWM provides various options for continuous inventory counting, such as using RFID tags, sensors, or barcodes to track inventory movements in real-time.

·???????? Variance Analysis: After the physical inventory count is completed, variance analysis is performed to identify discrepancies between the physical count and the inventory records. EWM provides various options for variance analysis, such as using exception reporting, or using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify patterns and trends in inventory discrepancies.

·???????? Inventory Adjustment: Once the variances have been identified, inventory adjustments are made to update the inventory records. EWM provides various options for inventory adjustment, such as automatic adjustment based on the variance analysis results, or manual adjustment based on the user's input.

In summary, the physical inventory processes in SAP EWM involve cycle counting, annual physical inventory, continuous inventory counting, variance analysis, and inventory adjustment. The processes are designed to be streamlined and automated, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

PART III: EWM Configuration

Organizational Structures in EWM

In SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management), organizational structures are used to define and manage the various entities involved in warehouse operations. These structures provide a logical framework for managing resources, such as warehouse locations, storage bins, and personnel. Here's an overview of the key organizational structures used in EWM:

·???????? Warehouse Number: A warehouse number is a unique identifier assigned to a physical warehouse. This structure represents the highest level of the organizational hierarchy in EWM. A single SAP ERP system can have multiple warehouse numbers, each representing a separate physical warehouse or a logical warehouse.

·???????? Storage Type: A storage type is a physical or logical subdivision of a warehouse, used to store goods based on their characteristics, such as size, weight, or temperature sensitivity. Each storage type has its own unique set of characteristics and may contain multiple storage bins.

·???????? Storage Bin: A storage bin is a physical location within a storage type where goods are stored. Each storage bin is uniquely identified by a storage bin number and may contain one or more storage units.

·???????? Storage Unit: A storage unit is a physical container used to store goods within a storage bin. Storage units can be pallets, cartons, or any other container used to hold goods.

·???????? Work Center: A work center is a location where specific tasks are performed within the warehouse, such as packing, labeling, or quality control. Work centers are typically associated with a particular storage type or storage bin.

·???????? Resource: A resource is any object used to perform a task within the warehouse, such as a forklift, conveyor, or RFID reader. Resources can be assigned to specific work centers to optimize task performance.

·???????? Personnel: Personnel refers to the workforce involved in warehouse operations, such as warehouse workers, supervisors, and managers. Personnel can be assigned to specific work centers and resources to optimize task performance.

In summary, the organizational structures in SAP EWM include warehouse number, storage type, storage bin, storage unit, work center, resource, and personnel. These structures provide a logical framework for managing resources and optimizing warehouse operations.

Master Data in EWM

Master data in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) refers to the core data entities that are used to manage warehouse operations. Master data provides a foundation for defining warehouse entities, such as products, storage bins, and warehouse resources. Here's an overview of the key master data entities in EWM:

·???????? Material Master: The Material Master is the core entity for product data in EWM. It contains information such as product descriptions, dimensions, and storage requirements. The Material Master is used to manage all aspects of product data, including inventory, procurement, and production.

·???????? Vendor Master: The Vendor Master contains information about the suppliers of goods and services to the warehouse. It includes data such as vendor names, addresses, and payment terms. The Vendor Master is used to manage purchasing and inbound logistics processes.

·???????? Customer Master: The Customer Master contains information about the warehouse's customers, including customer names, addresses, and payment terms. The Customer Master is used to manage outbound logistics processes, such as order processing and delivery.

·???????? Storage Bin Master: The Storage Bin Master contains information about the storage bins in the warehouse, including their locations, dimensions, and capacities. The Storage Bin Master is used to manage the inventory storage and retrieval processes.

·???????? Resource Master: The Resource Master contains information about the warehouse resources, such as forklifts, conveyors, and RFID readers. It includes data such as resource names, types, and capacities. The Resource Master is used to manage the allocation of resources to tasks and optimize warehouse operations.

·???????? Employee Master: The Employee Master contains information about the employees involved in warehouse operations. It includes data such as employee names, roles, and skills. The Employee Master is used to manage task assignments and optimize resource allocation.

·???????? Business Partner Master: The Business Partner Master contains information about the warehouse's business partners, including vendors, customers, and service providers. It includes data such as partner names, addresses, and contact information. The Business Partner Master is used to manage communication and collaboration with external entities.

In summary, master data in SAP EWM includes Material Master, Vendor Master, Customer Master, Storage Bin Master, Resource Master, Employee Master, and Business Partner Master. These entities provide a foundation for managing warehouse operations, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing collaboration with external entities.

Warehouse Process Types

Warehouse Process Types (WPTs) in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) are preconfigured process types that represent a specific warehouse operation or activity. They help to define the steps involved in executing a particular warehouse process and are used to guide warehouse operations. Here's an overview of the key warehouse process types in EWM:

·???????? Inbound Process Types: Inbound Process Types are used to manage the receipt of goods into the warehouse. They include receiving, putaway, and quality inspection process types.

·???????? Outbound Process Types: Outbound Process Types are used to manage the shipment of goods from the warehouse. They include picking, packing, and shipping process types.

·???????? Internal Process Types: Internal Process Types are used to manage the movement of goods within the warehouse. They include transfer order, stock transfer, and goods issue process types.

·???????? Value-Added Services (VAS) Process Types: VAS Process Types are used to manage the value-added services performed on goods within the warehouse. They include packing, kitting, and labeling process types.

·???????? Labor Management Process Types: Labor Management Process Types are used to manage the labor resources in the warehouse. They include time recording, activity confirmation, and work center process types.

·???????? Cross-Process Types: Cross-Process Types are used to manage the integration of warehouse processes with other business processes. They include production supply, replenishment, and returns process types.

·???????? Each warehouse process type in EWM is assigned to a process-oriented storage control (POSC) profile, which determines the warehouse management strategies and controls for executing the process. The POSC profile includes settings such as the storage type search sequence, stock removal strategy, and storage bin determination.

In summary, Warehouse Process Types (WPTs) in EWM provide a preconfigured framework for executing specific warehouse processes, such as inbound, outbound, internal, value-added services, labor management, and cross-process types. Each WPT is assigned to a process-oriented storage control (POSC) profile, which determines the warehouse management strategies and controls for executing the process.

Storage Control

Storage Control is a key feature in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) that manages the storage and retrieval of goods in the warehouse. It controls the movement of goods between storage locations, such as storage bins and storage sections, and is responsible for optimizing the use of available space. Here's a discussion of storage control and its configuration in EWM:

·???????? Storage Control Concepts: Storage Control in EWM is based on several concepts, such as storage type, storage section, storage bin, and quant. A storage type is a logical grouping of storage bins with similar characteristics, such as temperature or accessibility. A storage section is a part of a storage type that can contain several storage bins. A storage bin is a physical location where goods are stored, and a quant is a group of identical items with the same material, batch, and stock type.

·???????? Storage Control Configuration: Storage Control is configured in EWM through the use of storage type, storage section, and storage bin determination rules. These rules determine how the system searches for available storage locations when performing warehouse tasks, such as putaway and picking. Storage type determination rules define the priority and sequence of storage types to be used for specific materials. Storage section and storage bin determination rules define the search sequence for available storage locations within a storage type or storage section.

·???????? Storage Control Strategies: Storage Control in EWM includes various strategies for managing the movement of goods within the warehouse. These strategies include single-step, two-step, and three-step putaway and picking strategies, stock removal strategies, and storage unit management strategies. Single-step putaway and picking strategies involve directly storing or retrieving goods to or from a storage bin. Two-step and three-step strategies involve intermediate storage steps, such as interim storage areas, to optimize the use of available space.

·???????? Storage Control Optimization: Storage Control in EWM also includes features for optimizing the use of available space in the warehouse. These features include slotting optimization, which involves determining the optimal storage locations for each material based on its characteristics, such as demand, weight, and volume. It also includes dynamic slotting, which involves continuously monitoring and adjusting storage locations based on changing demand patterns and space availability.

In summary, Storage Control is a key feature in SAP EWM that manages the storage and retrieval of goods in the warehouse. It includes concepts such as storage type, storage section, storage bin, and quant. Storage Control is configured through the use of storage type, storage section, and storage bin determination rules, and includes various strategies for managing the movement of goods within the warehouse. It also includes features for optimizing the use of available space, such as slotting optimization and dynamic slotting.

Warehouse Management Monitor

The Warehouse Management Monitor (WMM) is a central monitoring tool in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) that provides an overview of the warehouse operations in real-time. It allows warehouse managers and operators to monitor the status of warehouse tasks, manage exceptions, and optimize warehouse processes. Here's an explanation of the warehouse management monitor in EWM:

·???????? Overview: The Warehouse Management Monitor provides a graphical display of the current status of warehouse operations, including inbound deliveries, outbound deliveries, warehouse tasks, and transportation units. It also displays the status of the warehouse resources, such as storage bins, handling units, and warehouse orders. The WMM can be configured to display information in various formats, such as tables, graphs, and charts.

·???????? Task Management: The WMM allows users to manage warehouse tasks, such as putaway, picking, and replenishment, in real-time. Users can monitor the status of tasks, such as open, in process, and completed, and can take corrective actions, such as reassigning tasks, canceling tasks, or creating new tasks. The WMM also allows users to prioritize tasks based on predefined criteria, such as order type, priority, and delivery date.

·???????? Exception Management: The WMM provides an exception management feature that alerts users when warehouse operations deviate from predefined rules or standards. For example, if a stock shortage occurs during picking, the system can automatically alert the user and provide suggestions for alternative stock locations. The WMM also allows users to configure exception handling procedures, such as reassignment of tasks or creation of new tasks, to address unexpected events.

·???????? Reporting: The WMM provides various reporting options to analyze warehouse operations and performance. Users can generate reports based on predefined criteria, such as warehouse orders, handling units, and stock movements. The WMM also allows users to create custom reports based on their specific requirements.

·???????? Integration: The WMM integrates with other SAP EWM modules, such as Yard Management, Labor Management, and Transportation Management, to provide a comprehensive view of warehouse operations. It also integrates with SAP ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) to ensure seamless communication and data exchange between the warehouse and other business functions.

In summary, the Warehouse Management Monitor is a central monitoring tool in SAP EWM that provides a real-time overview of warehouse operations. It allows users to manage warehouse tasks, monitor exceptions, analyze performance, and integrate with other SAP EWM modules and SAP ERP. The WMM is a critical component in ensuring efficient and effective warehouse management.

PART IV: Advanced EWM Topics

Labor Management in EWM

Labor Management is a module in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) that enables the management of warehouse labor and resources. It provides tools and features to optimize labor efficiency, measure performance, and reduce labor costs. Here's a guide to using Labor Management in EWM:

·???????? Time Recording: Labor Management provides a time recording feature that allows workers to record their working hours and activities. The system can capture data from various sources, such as handheld devices, RFID scanners, or biometric devices. The system can also validate and approve time recordings based on predefined criteria, such as work schedules, task types, and labor standards.

·???????? Performance Management: Labor Management allows users to measure and analyze worker performance based on various criteria, such as productivity, accuracy, and quality. The system can generate performance reports, such as productivity reports, downtime reports, and error reports, to identify areas for improvement and optimize labor allocation.

·???????? Resource Planning: Labor Management provides resource planning tools to forecast labor requirements and optimize resource allocation. The system can generate labor demand forecasts based on historical data, seasonal trends, and future demand projections. It can also generate labor supply reports based on worker skills, availability, and preferences. The system can then optimize resource allocation based on predefined rules, such as labor standards, worker preferences, and skill matching.

·???????? Incentive Management: Labor Management provides incentive management tools to motivate workers and increase productivity. The system can generate incentive plans based on predefined criteria, such as productivity targets, quality standards, and safety requirements. The system can also track and report incentive payments based on actual performance data.

·???????? Integration: Labor Management integrates with other SAP EWM modules, such as Warehouse Management, Yard Management, and Transportation Management, to provide a comprehensive view of warehouse operations. It also integrates with SAP ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) to ensure seamless communication and data exchange between the warehouse and other business functions.

In summary, Labor Management is a module in SAP EWM that enables the management of warehouse labor and resources. It provides tools and features to optimize labor efficiency, measure performance, and reduce labor costs. Labor Management integrates with other SAP EWM modules and SAP ERP to provide a comprehensive view of warehouse operations.

Quality Management in EWM

Quality Management is a module in SAP EWM (Extended Warehouse Management) that enables the management of quality control processes and inspections for goods received or stored in the warehouse. Here's an overview of Quality Management and its configuration in EWM:

·???????? Quality Inspection: Quality Management provides a quality inspection feature that allows users to define and execute quality checks based on predefined criteria, such as material type, inspection type, and inspection plan. The system can trigger quality inspections automatically when goods are received or stored in the warehouse, or manually when required.

·???????? Quality Control: Quality Management allows users to manage quality control processes, such as defect analysis, root cause analysis, and corrective action planning. The system can generate quality control reports to identify quality issues and track corrective actions.

·???????? Sample Management: Quality Management provides a sample management feature that allows users to define and execute sample tests based on predefined criteria, such as sample size, inspection frequency, and acceptance criteria. The system can generate sample reports to identify quality trends and improve quality control processes.

·???????? Quality Management Configuration: Quality Management is configured in SAP EWM using several components, including:

-??????? Inspection Types: Inspection types define the type of inspection to be performed for a specific material or product, such as receiving inspection, in-process inspection, or final inspection.

-??????? Inspection Plans: Inspection plans define the inspection procedures and criteria for a specific inspection type, such as the sequence of inspection steps, sample size, and acceptance criteria.

-??????? Inspection Lots: Inspection lots are created automatically or manually when goods are received or stored in the warehouse. Inspection lots are used to track the progress of quality inspections and quality control processes.

-??????? Sampling Procedures: Sampling procedures define the rules and criteria for sample testing, such as the sample size, sample frequency, and acceptance criteria.

-??????? Quality Scores: Quality scores are used to evaluate the quality of goods based on predefined criteria, such as defects per million or defect rate.

In summary, Quality Management is a module in SAP EWM that enables the management of quality control processes and inspections for goods received or stored in the warehouse. Quality Management provides features such as quality inspection, quality control, and sample management. It is configured in EWM using components such as inspection types, inspection plans, inspection lots, sampling procedures, and quality scores.

Cross-Docking in EWM

Cross-docking is a logistics strategy used to reduce handling and storage costs by directly transferring goods from inbound to outbound shipments without storing them in the warehouse. This strategy is used when there is a high volume of goods flowing through a warehouse and a need to quickly distribute them to customers.

In SAP EWM, cross-docking is implemented using several components, including:

·???????? Cross-docking Configuration: Cross-docking is configured in EWM using several components, including cross-docking profiles, cross-docking rules, and cross-docking areas. Cross-docking profiles define the parameters for cross-docking operations, such as the allowed delay time, the allowed quantity deviation, and the cross-docking type. Cross-docking rules define the criteria for selecting and processing cross-docking orders, such as the order type, the delivery priority, and the goods receipt type. Cross-docking areas define the physical locations in the warehouse where cross-docking operations take place.

·???????? Cross-docking Process: The cross-docking process in EWM starts with the receipt of goods into the warehouse. Goods are then sorted and directed to the cross-docking area based on predefined rules. The system can automatically generate cross-docking orders and release them for picking and packing. Once the cross-docking orders are picked and packed, they are sent directly to the outbound shipping area for delivery to customers.

·???????? Cross-docking Types: EWM supports different types of cross-docking, such as standard cross-docking, opportunistic cross-docking, and planned cross-docking. Standard cross-docking is used for goods that are always cross-docked, while opportunistic cross-docking is used for goods that can be cross-docked based on demand. Planned cross-docking is used for goods that are cross-docked based on a predefined schedule or delivery plan.

Benefits of Cross-Docking: Cross-docking in EWM offers several benefits, including:

·???????? Reduced handling and storage costs by eliminating the need for intermediate storage in the warehouse.

·???????? Faster delivery times by reducing the time goods spend in the warehouse.

·???????? Improved order accuracy and customer satisfaction by reducing the risk of errors and delays in the warehouse.

·???????? Increased flexibility and responsiveness to changing demand by quickly processing and delivering goods to customers.

In summary, cross-docking is a logistics strategy used to reduce handling and storage costs by directly transferring goods from inbound to outbound shipments without storing them in the warehouse. In SAP EWM, cross-docking is implemented using components such as cross-docking profiles, cross-docking rules, and cross-docking areas. The cross-docking process in EWM starts with the receipt of goods into the warehouse, followed by sorting and directing the goods to the cross-docking area based on predefined rules. EWM supports different types of cross-docking, and cross-docking in EWM offers several benefits, including reduced handling and storage costs, faster delivery times, improved order accuracy, and increased flexibility and responsiveness.

Slotting and Rearrangement in EWM

Slotting and rearrangement are important warehouse management activities that aim to optimize warehouse layout and improve efficiency. In EWM, slotting refers to the process of assigning storage bins to products based on their characteristics and demand patterns. Rearrangement, on the other hand, involves moving products within the warehouse to better utilize space and reduce travel times.

Here are some key points to keep in mind about slotting and rearrangement in EWM:

·???????? Slotting is typically based on factors such as product size, weight, demand, and expiration date. By placing products in the most appropriate storage bins, warehouse managers can reduce travel times and improve order picking efficiency.

·???????? EWM provides several tools to support slotting, including heat maps that show which products are frequently picked and which storage bins are most commonly used. This information can be used to optimize bin assignments and reduce travel times.

·???????? Rearrangement is typically carried out periodically to optimize warehouse layout and improve efficiency. EWM provides tools to support this process, such as the ability to generate move tasks that can be assigned to warehouse workers.

In addition to improving efficiency, slotting and rearrangement can also help to reduce errors and improve safety by ensuring that products are stored in appropriate locations.

EWM provides detailed reports and analytics on slotting and rearrangement activities, allowing warehouse managers to monitor performance and identify areas for improvement.

Overall, slotting and rearrangement are important activities in any warehouse, and EWM provides powerful tools to support these processes and optimize warehouse layout and efficiency.

PART V: Conclusion

Conclusion

In conclusion, this book has provided a comprehensive overview of SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) and its various processes and functionalities. We have discussed EWM architecture and integration, organizational structures, master data, warehouse process types, storage control, labor management, quality management, cross-docking, slotting and rearrangement, and more.

One key point to note is that EWM is a highly configurable solution that can be customized to meet the specific needs of different industries and businesses. It provides a range of tools and functionalities to optimize warehouse operations, including real-time inventory tracking, automated processes, and advanced analytics and reporting.

Looking to the future, we can expect continued growth and innovation in the field of warehouse management, with EWM playing a key role in this development. Some key trends to watch out for include the adoption of new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), as well as the increasing importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility in warehouse operations.

In summary, EWM is a powerful warehouse management solution that can help businesses optimize their operations and improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. By leveraging the tools and functionalities provided by EWM, businesses can stay competitive in today's fast-paced and constantly evolving business landscape.