A specialist consultancy has initiated a fresh collaboration with a globally recognised manufacturer of ejection seats and aviation safety equipment. This project is intended to increase operational efficiency and future-proof its operations through changes to its SAP enterprise structure and additional SAP improvements.

The consultancy has already completed 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 advancement, the manufacturer is transitioning from SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA, choosing 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 improvements identified during initial scoping are also set for implementation. These include improvements to PreBilt and changes to SAP to support inter-site stock transfers and Available to Promise (ATP) functionality.

Detailed Assessment and PoC Activities

• In-depth study to support inter-site transfers and ATP requirements.


• Proof of concept in the sandbox environment showcasing the proposed structure changes.


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• Review of high-level design to key stakeholders, supported by documentation and future-phase recommendations.


• Evaluation 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.

 

Rachel Greenwood, Head of the Digital Supply Chain Practice at the consultancy, remarked on the collaboration: “The team is delighted to work further 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 solid foundation has been established for successful delivery.”