SAP S/4HANA implementation

Everything from a single source: consulting, implementation and operation

With the aim of optimising its operational processes, the Stuttgart-based automotive supplier odelo decided to replace its existing ERP system with SAP S/4HANA. As the leading partner in this extensive project, SPIRIT/21 assumed responsibility for the development of a customised strategy and the successful implementation of SAP S/4HANA at the locations in Germany and Slovenia. In addition, SPIRIT/21 effectively managed the seamless integration of subcontractors into the new system.

Challenges of the SAP S/4HANA implementation at odelo

When the former sister companies odelo and Farba merged to form the odelo Group, there was a need to standardise processes, data, applications and technologies. Odelo decided to harmonise the processes at its various locations and replace its 20-year-old ERP system with a modern, innovative solution. Odelo opted for SAP S/4HANA as it optimally supports the lighting systems specialist’s requirements. A total of 14 subsystems were affected by the changeover. The particular challenge of this project was that both the ERP system from a third-party provider and the SAP R/3 system used in one area were to be replaced.

Implementation of the S/4HANA transformation

With the support of SPIRIT/21 as IT consulting partner, odelo developed a global template for the introduction of SAP S/4HANA based on the SAP®Model Company for Automotive Suppliers. The use of this preconfigured, industry-specific reference solution helped to significantly accelerate the implementation and considerably reduce the associated time and costs. The ready-to-run solution also made it possible to quickly familiarise users with the new systems. As the general contractor, SPIRIT/21 provided all consulting and infrastructure services and supplied the test system as well as the necessary licences. Since the ‘go-live’, the productive system has also been hosted and operated by SPIRIT/21.

The implementation took place in several stages: The project started with a six-month template phase, during which the processes were first structured, the IT infrastructure was set up and training was provided for all ‘key users’. The next step was to harmonise all master data and organisational structures, and to define and standardise processes. The implementation was carried out according to SAP Activate on the basis of the SAP Model Company for Automotive Suppliers. Moderated by SPIRIT/21 consultants, key users from the main sites in Germany, Slovenia and Turkey developed the target processes in FIT/ GAP workshops. Once the global template was available, the project team rolled out the processes in Germany and then in Slovenia within 16 months.

Results

With the help of the global template, processes, data, applications and technologies were harmonised between the odelo Group’s global locations and the basis for a smooth introduction of SAP S/4HANA was laid. This modern, standardised and uniform ERP system across the Group will enable odelo to benefit from homogeneous processes and structures, increase its productivity, reduce process costs and improve quality.