SAP Workflow implementation
Workflow means automation of business processes. It allows the transfer of documents, data or tasks from one process participant to another in order to be dealt with as required by the pre-established organisational structure.
SAP Business Workflow is a tool facilitating automation and structuring of tasks performed as part of business processes supported by SAP. People involved in supporting the process whose model is part of the system receive electronic alerts about the events registered in the system as well as information about the tasks they should perform in connection to a given event. SAP Business Workflow comprises an action plan for designing and managing specific tasks, a task progress monitoring system and a mechanism managing links with the organisational structure. By using suitable links you can introduce processes the development of which will be electronically assigned to employees based on their position in the organisational structure. SAP Business Workflow is available in all modules utilising the resources of the whole SAP computer system – applications, services, communication tools, data bases. It is part of the SAP system and operates as an integrated section of information flow, execution of specific processes, controls, etc.
Workflow as part of SAP:
- integrates all functionalities offered by SAP
- is used to support business processes in the company
- supports processes running between various units/modules (inter-module information exchange)
- supports processes in the company by enforcing the proper sequence of actions as well as by verifying the correctness of entered data and their flow
- supports fast data and information flow between specific positions, eliminating possible errors that may occur during information exchange
- should not be used to supplement functionalities missing in SAP;
The benefits of introducing SAP Business Workflow include:
Improving processes efficiency and reducing costs
Workflow tasks are formulated directly or automatically on the basis of changes recorded in the system (changes of master data or document status), and later transferred to the mailboxes of responsible personnel as workflow items. The tasks include the current context (business data, employee in charge of the task, completion time, etc.). It is the basis for launching suitable transactions and performance of designated responsibilities. The follow-up comprises developing of transaction results, creation of a different item for another employee, etc.
Automatic procedures for emergency situations
Improved efficiency of actions and communication in a business process
SAP Business Workflow is more important – in terms of integration – than a standard system operation. If you put it to work, a significant level of automation can be achieved, greatly accelerating routine tasks. Once an appropriate report has been opened, any kind of action can be taken and information added. No operation will be left out.
Transparency of business processes and assigned scope of responsibility.
Deadlines monitoring
Examples:
- The process of accepting incoming invoices along with handling scanned attachments
- The process of accepting requisitions/orders
- Process of accepting suppliers' price lists
- Process supporting the creation of master data:
- Material master data
- Suppliers/Recipients masterdata
- Material specifications