Switching from SAP LE-TRA to SAP TM

2. Integration of collaboration platforms 

One of the great strengths of SAP Transportation Management (SAP TM) is its seamless integration with other SAP modules such as SAP EWM, SAP S/4HANA or SAP IBP as well as third-party solutions. This creates a networked ecosystem that promotes efficiency and transparency throughout the entire supply chain.

The integration enables real-time data exchange between systems, improves coordination between transport planning and warehouse processes and simplifies collaboration with external partners such as freight forwarders and suppliers.

The result: an optimised supply chain with smooth processes, better use of resources and greater customer satisfaction.

3. Greater flexibility and artificial intelligence

In future, SAP will invest exclusively in the further development of SAP S/4HANA and cloud-based solutions, including SAP TM. These new platforms provide access to cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI)-based capabilities that can significantly increase efficiency and automation in logistics. AI capabilities with SAP TM include the following:

• Optimised route planning: AI-supported algorithms analyse real-time traffic data, weather conditions and delivery priorities to determine the most efficient routes.
• Predicting delivery delays: Predictive analytics identifies potential risks along the supply chain and enables proactive measures to minimise delays.
• Freight cost simulation: AI helps to analyse cost and contract data to determine the most cost-effective combination of means of transport and providers.
• Intelligent freight space optimisation: Machine learning models can be used to optimally utilise freight spaces in order to reduce empty runs and promote sustainability. 
• Automated anomaly detection: AI-based systems detect irregularities in real time, for example in transport times or freight conditions, and automatically notify the responsible teams.

4. Future viability through scalability and cloud integration

SAP TM is future-proof, scalable and optimally designed for the cloud, which offers companies many concrete advantages:

• Flexible adaptation to growing needs: A medium-sized logistics provider was able to quickly integrate additional transport capacities with SAP TM when demand increased by 30% during a peak season - without any additional IT effort.
• No infrastructure worries: A global company migrated SAP TM to the cloud and reduced its IT operating costs by 20% by eliminating the need to maintain expensive on-premise servers.
• Access to real-time data: An international retailer uses cloud integration to access transport and delivery data in real time. This has enabled him to halve response times to delivery deviations and significantly increase customer satisfaction.
• Better global collaboration: A manufacturer with branches on several continents uses the cloud platform to centrally manage logistics data and optimise collaboration between freight forwarders and warehouses, which significantly simplifies coordination in international networks. 

5. Simplified processes, cost reduction in day-to-day business

By using SAP TM, processes in day-to-day business can be significantly simplified and costs reduced at the same time. For example, automated freight cost calculation and invoicing can minimise manual entries and sources of error. Optimised route planning not only saves time, but also reduces transport costs and CO₂ emissions. In addition, the integration of real-time data enables more efficient scheduling and minimises empty runs. Digital collaboration platforms speed up collaboration with partners such as haulage companies and suppliers, which reduces both costs and effort in the long term. SAP TM makes day-to-day operations leaner, more efficient and more economical.

• Precise and detailed planning: Start planning the changeover at an early stage in order to have enough time to analyse the current processes and adapt to SAP TM. Define a roadmap with clear milestones and also take into account potential risks and the resources required. 

• Set goals and expectations: Set realistic goals and clarify expectations for the switch to SAP TM. This includes both business goals, such as cost reduction or process optimisation, as well as technical requirements. Transparent expectation management prevents misunderstandings and creates a common basis for all project participants.

• Process analysis and optimisation: Before the migration, the existing logistics processes should be thoroughly analysed and optimised to ensure that they meet the requirements of SAP TM. Use this opportunity to eliminate inefficient processes and create a solid basis for the introduction of the new solution.

• Step-by-step implementation: A step-by-step implementation of SAP TM can help to minimise risks and ease the transition. Start with a pilot project focussed on a specific business area or region. This allows experience to be gained, optimisations to be made and problems to be identified at an early stage before the system is rolled out on a large scale.

• Stringent approach and employee involvement: A clearly structured project plan and the close involvement of all relevant stakeholders are essential for success. Involve employees from different departments at an early stage in order to utilise their expertise and create acceptance for the new processes. Regular updates and open communication ensure trust and a shared understanding of the objectives.

• Early training and change management: Invest in training your employees in good time to ensure that they are familiar with the new functions and processes. A comprehensive change management programme helps to promote acceptance of the new solution. This includes workshops, regular updates and supporting materials to make the transition as smooth as possible.