Rainer Köhler
Marcel Rooch
Introduction
The second part of our series on SAP Order and Delivery Scheduling (ODS) focuses on the standard solutions it provides. A key focus is on making integration into existing system landscapes quick and simple. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the core functions of this SAP product.
What capabilities does SAP ODS offer?
SAP Order and Delivery Scheduling provides a central solution for maintaining and managing order and delivery schedules. Its core functions are shown in the illustration below:
1) Define and manage scheduling groups
A scheduling group combines multiple products that are delivered from a supply location (an external supplier or distribution centre) to a delivery location (a store or distribution centre). The products are grouped according to defined criteria and can therefore be scheduled separately. The products within a scheduling group are ordered and delivered together. A distinction is made between external and internal scheduling groups.
In this example, the scheduling group “Mineral water” is shown. The products are automatically assigned to this group based on predefined grouping conditions.
2) Define and assign delivery templates
A delivery template is a blueprint for an order and delivery schedule. In the example below, we define a delivery schedule with three delivery days per week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and a lead time of three days. Deliveries must take place between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m, and orders must be placed by 4:00 p.m. at the latest.
After defining the delivery template, it is assigned to the scheduling group. In our example, we assign the delivery template “Lieferung Mo, Mi, Fr – 3 Tage Lieferzeit” (“Delivery Mon, Wed, Fri – 3-day lead time”) to the scheduling group “Mineral water”.
The delivery template is then assigned to the distribution centres in Hamburg and Munich. The assigned data can be managed separately for each distribution centre if different delivery days apply there.
3) Generate, review, and update order and delivery schedules
After the delivery template has been assigned, the order and delivery schedules are calculated automatically on a daily basis. Using the “Review Order and Delivery Schedules” tool, you can check the defined delivery dates and reschedule individual dates if needed.
Looking ahead
In the next part of this blog series on Order and Delivery Scheduling, we will explore the integration opportunities offered by this SAP solution and demonstrate how the schedules defined in SAP ODS can be used in other SAP products.
Sound interesting?
Want to learn more about SAP Order and Delivery Scheduling? Feel free to get in touch with us for an informal chat.
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