SAP Public Cloud WM at a glance
With SAP Public Cloud WM (Warehouse Management), SAP provides a warehouse management solution that is fully integrated into the public cloud environment. The system is aimed at companies that want to standardize their processes and switch to a future-proof platform without having to carry the complexity of a full SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) system.
While SAP EWM is equipped with a very broad range of functions, SAP Public Cloud WM focuses on the most important standard processes in the warehouse - and deliberately dispenses with numerous special and individual functions. This "simplification" enables rapid implementation, lower operating costs and a clear focus on standardized processes.
Special features and limitations of SAP Public Cloud WM
The following special features and restrictions must be observed:
Origin and range of functions
SAP Public Cloud WM is technically based on SAP EWM, but only has a greatly reduced range of functions. Many functions that are indispensable in complex warehouse structures are not (yet) available here. For companies, this means that they need to carefully examine their warehouse processes to determine whether the public cloud version is sufficient.
Connection of automatic trades
One key difference: integrated material flow control is not possible in SAP Public Cloud WM. This means that the solution is not suitable for automated high-bay warehouses or highly mechanized logistics centers, in which MFS plays a key role.
Process-oriented storage control
Process-oriented control - a central tool in EWM for modeling multi-level processes - is also not yet available. Although the functionality is noted on SAP's roadmap, it has not yet been implemented.
Packaging and specifications
Another difference can be seen in the packaging process: packing specifications are not available in Public Cloud WM. Although the ERP packing instructions can be used in goods receipt, the scope for design remains significantly limited compared to EWM.
Expandability and customization
A key feature of the cloud solution is its very limited expandability. While over 400 business add-ins (BAdIs) are available in classic EWM, SAP Public Cloud WM only offers a few selected individual customizations and extensions are therefore hardly possible. This forces companies to adhere closely to the solution's standard processes.
With automatic updates and clearly defined standard processes, SAP Public Cloud WM offers a modern and future-proof warehouse management solution.
Third-party system connection
One positive aspect to emphasize is that third-party systems can be connected - for example via separate storage locations. This allows external logistics service providers or other systems to be integrated into the process landscape, albeit on the basis of clearly defined interfaces (API).
Operation with Fiori apps
The classic SAP transaction world has largely been replaced by Fiori apps in SAP Public Cloud WM. These offer a modern interface and intuitive operation, albeit with some limited functionalities compared to the familiar transactions. For many companies, this is sufficient - for others, it means giving up some of the detailed functions they have come to love.
Automatic updates
Users benefit from automatic updates that are carried out twice a year. New functions are made available with the updates. The use of the new functions is not mandatory.
SAP documentation
Configuration documentation (scope items) for the predefined processes is available in Public Cloud WM, which ensures faster implementation of business processes.
Who is SAP Public Cloud WM suitable for?
Against this background, it is clear that SAP Public Cloud WM is not a general-purpose solution for every warehouse structure, but is clearly aimed at specific application scenarios.
- Companies with manageable warehouse sizes: Small and medium-sized warehouses that can manage without complex automation benefit from the standardized processes.
- Organizations with less complex processes: Those who primarily require simple incoming and outgoing goods processes will find Public Cloud WM a fast and efficient solution.
- Companies with a cloud strategy: Anyone already using SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud or pursuing a consistent cloud strategy can set up an end-to-end solution with SAP Public Cloud WM.
- Companies with low customization requirements: Companies that are willing to adapt their processes to the standards benefit from the lean architecture and reduced operating costs.
- Customers with rapid growth: high scalability.
SAP Public Cloud WM, on the other hand, is not suitable for:
- Logistics centers with a high degree of automation
- Warehouses with highly complex processes and many special cases
- Companies that rely on extensive customization
- Companies with complex system landscapes, as integration with other SAP solutions such as TM, GTS, DM etc. is limited.
SAP Public Cloud WM deliberately focuses on standardization instead of complexity - quickly implemented, cost-efficient and ideal for manageable warehouses.
Summary
SAP Public Cloud WM is a modern, lean warehouse management solution that is particularly suitable for manageable warehouses with clear, standardized processes. Companies benefit from fast implementation, lower costs and seamless integration into the SAP Public Cloud world.
However, anyone who operates a highly automated, highly complex warehouse or requires individual adaptations should continue to rely on SAP EWM on-premise or private cloud. The decision therefore depends largely on the individual process requirements and the strategic orientation of the company.
