Enhancing Document Processes at a Renowned German Manufacturer
A leading German manufacturer in the field of production technology with over 120 years of tradition has significantly optimized its production processes by implementing inPuncto software for SAP. The goal was to seamlessly and efficiently digitize and archive paper-based production orders in SAP, minimizing manual steps and reducing potential errors.
The Challenge: Introducing Paperless Production Orders
Before the transition, production orders were managed exclusively in paper form. These were often multi-page, double-sided documents, with the production order number printed as both a barcode and plain text on the first page. The client sought a solution to:
- Scan and digitally archive production orders.
- Enable automatic assignment of digitized orders to corresponding SAP production orders.
- Accelerate the entire process, making it more transparent and error-free.
A quick implementation of the solution was critical to avoid delays in production.
The Solution: Automated Integration in SAP with inPuncto Software
With the flexible inPuncto solution for SAP, the client successfully digitized and integrated paper-based processes into SAP. The use of the biz²ScanServer enabled efficient and automated processing:
- Digitization and Barcode Evaluation
Production orders are scanned in batches using a multifunction device and sent to the mass processor biz²ScanServer. The server separates documents based on the 7-digit production order number contained in the barcode, ignoring other barcodes on the documents. - Automatic Assignment in SAP
The barcode acts as both a document identifier and an SAP production order number. After processing, the digitized documents are automatically transferred to the SAP archive and linked to the corresponding production order via SAP ArchiveLink. Archived documents can then be accessed directly via the equipment list in SAP. - Optimized Document Processing
The software was later enhanced to merge consecutive pages with identical barcodes into a single PDF. If the barcodes differ, a new PDF is automatically created and properly archived.
Results: Greater Efficiency and Transparency
The implementation of inPuncto software fundamentally transformed the entire workflow of handling production orders:
- Time Savings: Manual steps were eliminated, and the process now runs entirely automatically.
- Error Reduction: Barcode-based assignment eliminates processing errors.
- Transparency and Traceability: All archived documents are directly available in SAP and clearly structured in the equipment list.
- Flexibility for Future Requirements: Adjustments, such as merging multiple pages into a single PDF, were implemented quickly and easily.
A Major Step Toward Paperless Manufacturing
By seamlessly integrating production orders into SAP processes, the company has significantly improved its production planning and monitoring. The digital workflow not only enhances efficiency but also reduces costs—a crucial advantage in a highly competitive market.
About the Customer
The client is a renowned German manufacturer with a 120-year tradition. The company produces custom-designed systems that are individually developed and installed turnkey. With these end-to-end solutions, the company delivers top-quality “Made in Germany.”
Questions?
The inPuncto Sales Team is happy to assist with any questions about “Successfully Integrating Production Order Documents into SAP.”
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