SAP is an integrated software package for business applications. SAP is divided into many 'Modules' for ease of implementation.

Each module covers a special aspect of business. Examples are "MM" module covers 'Materials Management', 'CO' module deals with 'Costing' etc. All these modules are integrated i.e., they look at the same data when queried. Thus data redundancy can be eliminated. SAP is a real time system. You always look at current data and not historical data. SAP R/3 also acts as a 'facilitator' for a number of other improvement projects, finally resulting in business benefits such as increased sales and lower cost of operations. 'WM' sub-module of 'MM' module takes care of 'Warehouse Management ' functionality. Warehouses can be managed efficiently at 'Bin location' level using WM module. WM module of SAP R/3 provides flexible, efficient, automated support that enables you to: manage complex warehouse structures define and manage storage areas and storage bins in the warehouse manage several different types of storage, such as high rack storage, block storage or fixed bin storage

process all relevant postings and transactions such as goods receipts, goods issues and general stock transfers. monitor stock movements execute stock placements and removals using different put-away and picking strategies process stock differences manage hazardous materials use bar code scanners interface to external non-SAP warehousing systems manage inventory at the storage bin level ensure that stock posted in the Inventory Management system is the same as the stock in the warehouse integrate with materials management, product planning, quality management and sales and distribution

It primarily aims at defining and managing complex warehouse structures within a company. The following points must be considered when implementing the SAP R/3 WM module: Path optimization for: stock placements stock removal stock transfer (for example, replenishment) Even utilization of warehouse capacity Balanced utilization of warehouse personnel Possibility for improvement in warehouse stocking Handling of means of conveyance for stock placement and stock removal

Possibility for improvement of work papers

'WM' module is one of the effective tools available to manage Warehouse and keep inventory at optimum level. But it is a 'Tool' and you need a skillful craftsman who can understand your business needs and satisfy them using the tool. Potentials of the tool must be extracted fully for the best results.

=========================================================

Why do companies require a WM Consultant for a SAPConsole Implementation?

SAPConsole was originally developed based on the WM Module. The SAPConsole standard system is based on WM transactions and WM configuration. Does this mean though that today SAPConsole is based purelly on WM? The answer is no! The Consultant who implements SAPConsole will fail if she/he is not aware of the processes and configuration of all the other Logistics modules such as SD, Logistics Execution, MM, IM, QM, PP and PM. At one of our most recent SAPConsole projects we had to use the RF Handheld Units to perform a Stock Status movement from Unrestricted Use to Quality Inspection. This was a pure IM Movement within the MM module. Since this does not exist in the Standard SAPConsole system the SAPConsole consultant worked with the ABAP programmer to develop this as a mini application for SAPConsole. Another example: Move material, product or MRO from one plant to another plant using the Stock Transport Order process. This scenario involves MM, SD, IM and WM. The SAPConsole consultant should know how to configure, create test data, test the process in SAP first and then adapt the scenario to include SAPConsole. The consultant should be able to analyze and determine at which points within the process the RF Handheld Units will be used and how. To even complicate things more you may have the case of moving the material from a Non-WMmanaged Plant to a WM-managed plant or vice versa. Now here is the need for really a wellversed SAPConsole consultant. There are numerous situations where the standard SAPConsole will not work and it will involve the need for expert knowledge around other logistics modules. For more information and help please visit us at www.evolutionary.netfirms.com or email at saporta@lycos.com - We are one of the very few true experts with the longest experience on SAPConsole implementations on the SAP Market today.