FAQs Frequently asked questions

The SCX indicator shows at a glance whether your supply chain is functioning across all process stages of your intralogistics.

No, the indicators are based on SAP Core. No ifm application is required. However, Supply Chain Excellence is currently only licensed in coupling with at least one ifm solution.

Supply Chain Excellence is only available as a subscription (rental model).

No, Supply Chain Excellence only runs on SAP S/4HANA.

Yes, GIB Suite cannot be operated in the SAP S/4HANA environment. However, Supply Chain Excellence is not just a "successor software", but has a significantly extended range of functions, includes the globally unique indicator model and can not only be used for the operational control of the supply chain but also enables planning and control at a strategic level.

The new functionalities, e.g. the indicator model, can only be used with the new Fiori interface. However, the classic functionalities are also available in the proven SAP GUI.

Yes, all functionalities that can be reasonably mapped as a Fiori app are available in this user-friendly, modern design and the corresponding logic.

The Supply Chain Excellence indicator reflects a percentage of the quality of the supply chain across all five process steps. The next question that arises is inevitable: In which area is it going well and in which less? Therefore, the user can call up the level below the main indicator and obtain the process indicators for the process sections Demand Planning, Manufacturing, Procurement, Inventory Management and Sales & Distribution.

GIB Suite runs on SAP ECC 6.0, and Supply Chain Excellence (SCX) on SAP S/4HANA. In addition, the range of functions has been significantly expanded in the new SCX and the solution includes the indicator model for checking the quality of your supply chain processes. In addition, the app is built with modern Fiori technology and is therefore even more user-friendly.

To successfully master the constant challenges of the supply chain, intelligent and reliable tools and processes are required. The APEO principle offers a clear structure and is embedded in a high-performance software system that reliably navigates you through complex supply chain processes. APEO stands for analysis, plan, execution and optimisation.

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The indicator is fed directly from the SAP Core.

The indicators enable objective comparability of processes within a company and comparability with other companies. The indicator logic works across industries and always shows the incorruptible truth from the SAP Core and transparency in all process sections of the supply chain.

SCX stands for Supply Chain Excellence.

No. You have the option of renting individual solutions (Procurement, Manufacturing, Inventory Management, Demand Planning).

Supply Chain Excellence is Fiori-based but offers - if required - the full view in the proven SAP GUI.

Our solution has a holistic planning approach, which has a basic strategic idea, but rather shows its full performance in the operational implementation. We see ourselves as a tactical-operational link between the deeply strategic SAP solution and the daily business.

On our landing page you will find a lot of information and videos about Supply Chain Excellence. Feel free to request a no-obligation web demo.

Yes, the user can drill down from the top aggregation level to the sum of the KPIs and thus reliably understand which key figures are used for which process indicator. All key figures and indicators are calculated from the SAP Core data pool.

Supply Chain Excellence is based on a completely new technological foundation that offers significantly more possibilities than the original SAP ECC 6.0 system. This means that the functional scope of Supply Chain Excellence Manufacturing goes significantly beyond the proven GIB Planning. In addition, only in connection with GIB Manufacturing is it possible to use cloud-based apps, for example, Shopfloor Terminal and Mobile Planning, as well as Factory Optimisation Excellence (FOX) shortly.

Yes, the simulation option is one of the central components in Supply Chain Excellence and can be carried out at all crucial points to calculate different scenarios.

Supply Chain Excellence offers the possibility of graphical representation in almost all overviews and tables. This makes the extensive set of figures meaningful to the user at a glance.

NO. The GIB Suite is fully integrated into SAP and therefore runs without any interfaces.

YES. The GIB Suite has both “SAP Certified – Powered by SAP Netweaver” certification and “SAP Certified – Integration with SAP S/4HANA” certification.

NO. The GIB Suite offers an operational enhancement with special functions that close the white spaces related to SCM in the standard SAP system. Furthermore, the GIB Suite focuses primarily on providing user-friendly solutions that can be rapidly implemented for small and medium-size enterprises.

YES. The GIB Suite is fully available in both German and English. In addition, around 20 other language variants are available for practically every application. The languages include Russian, Chinese, French, and so on. Please feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

The GIB Suite provides operational analysis capabilities that go far beyond those of a typical Excel spreadsheet. It also includes a greater range of functions and is much more user friendly, because GIB applications are fully integrated into the SAP system, which means that all activities and data are read and written in a direct exchange, in real time. This ensures that users have constant access to the latest information. There is no need to switch back and forth between applications, which also avoids transmission errors. Since everything is mapped centrally in one system, there are no information islands within the company.

YES. The individual applications in the GB Suite communicate with each other. This ensures that the information from sales planning can be incorporated into downstream planning scenarios. Once the optimal plan has been established, the results and findings from the planning process and the simulation and implementation phases are incorporated into the optimization phase and have a direct influence on the subsequent analysis and planning process. The result is a planning cycle comprised of analysis, planning, execution and optimization.

The synergies from combining all the modules in the GIB Suite provide an even greater benefit than using each module individually. The use of the GIB Suite has led to more sustainable success and greater results than the sum of the success from using the individual modules.

The implementation times differ based on the scope and focus of the project. However, best-practice experiences have shown an unusually short introduction period. From the kick-off date to the go-live date, the GIB Suite modules can generally be implemented within two to three months on average.

Our SCM solution is suitable for practically every sector and company size, and is especially suitable for small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs). Companies that currently deploy the GIB Suite are active in the automotive, aeronautical engineering, food and chemicals industries, machine and plant engineering and other sectors.

The introduction of the GIB Suite has many positive effects. Some of the most relevant ones include:

• Highly dynamic and constantly updated master data synchronization and adaptation
• An increase in service levels alongside a reduction in stock levels
• Continuous process mapping from sales planning to detailed production scheduling
• Quick access to information for better operational and strategic decision making
• Planning of dynamic supply chains through simulation scenarios

Experience has shown that master data maintenance is a weak point with negative side effects for many companies. For instance, weak master data can often lead people to bypass planning in the SAP system. As a result, the SAP system is no longer used as the principal system and its benefits to the user are lost.

The GIB Suite is fully integrated into SAP and therefore has access to the data in the standard SAP system, including data from material documents, MRP runs, BOMs, task lists, and so on. As a result, the implementation does not require a special depth of master data. Since well maintained master data is an important factor for success in optimizing supply chain processes, the GIB Suite assists with continuous updates.

A range of support and maintenance options are available in addition to the GIB Suite license, and free consultation on these topics is also provided. Once you have made your decision, appropriate agreements will be drawn up. We guarantee binding response times and extensive support services in German and English, including installation and upgrades to new releases, for instance.

YES. As a solution with full SAP integration, the GIP Suite provides a wide range of layouts that allow you to independently integrate additional information. User training is provided in the GIB Academy.

Furthermore, GIB provides a convenient ticket system that all customers can access and use to submit individual change requests. We provide a detailed estimate of the time and effort required so that you can factor this into your decision making. Once your order is placed, our GIB experts can simply make the program changes remotely.

A new release of the GIB Suite is made available for download by our customers once a year as part of the maintenance agreement.

Following their purchase of the GIB Suite, customers are provided with their own authorization concept based on SAP authorizations. This concept is intended as an “all-round hassle-free package” for each application module for the various areas of responsibility within the company.

Alongside tailored sample authorization roles, GIB provides its own authorization objects for controlling the tasks in the application modules. Access to tables is also provided through custom table authorization groups.

Yes, the GIB Suite is still functional and will continue to be maintained until SAP discontinues the SAP ECC 6.0 release. As far as possible, further developments of the successor product Supply Chain Excellence on S/4HANA will also be downgraded. However, this is not technically possible for many features.

No, SFI is a universal interface for integrating IoT data (IoT = Internet of Things) into SAP ERP processes. This data often, but not exclusively, comes from production environments. SFI can also record data that is not relevant to MES systems (e.g.: compressed air consumption, valve wear or oil quality). SFI can thus be used effectively alongside an MES system.

SFI does not necessarily require middleware, but this is often the ideal way to integrate sensor data. The middleware turns big data into smart data and offers additional functions such as monitoring of limit values and detailed fault analysis. Furthermore, middleware ensures a high degree of scalability for the shop floor environment.

SFI is basically designed for integration in any ERP process. Through our RTM component (RTM = Real Time Maintenance), we now provide integration with SAP PM (Plant Maintenance). That means the automated creation of maintenance notifications, maintenance orders and measurement documents, which in turn accelerates processes and provides quality assurance. The first functions for integration in SAP supply chain processes are available now or are on the roadmap for the upcoming release.

One such example is automatic repeat ordering or stock reservation for consumable materials. SFI is also capable of requesting and storing measurement documents for a multitude of SAP objects (such as equipment, functional locations and production tools). It can therefore be used to support energy data monitoring, for instance.

This is possible without further ado.

If you measure the actual wear and tear on parts, then you need to keep fewer spare parts in stock. Needs-based maintenance means that fewer spare parts are required in general.

Supported ERP releases:

• SAP ERP 6.0 EhP7/EhP8
• SAP S/4HANA on-premises 2022/2023

Both standard IoT platforms and SFI itself provide functions for checking that data is valid and avoiding unwanted documents.

Outgoing connections are implemented via RFC connections. Incoming connections are implemented via HTTPS and REST interface.

The early, sensor-aided detection of potential faults lets you integrate downtimes into your detailed production planning in the optimum way. Actual component wear determines the maintenance intervals and measures.

We have the capabilities to offer a holistic solution in combination with the hardware and software products from our business group. SFI is generally open to IoT hardware and platforms from other providers.

Any condition monitoring systems (CMS) and IoT/IIoT platforms that have an open API can be connected. At present, connections to ifm moneo, iba HD-Server and the io-key cloud are available straight out of the box. There are also other platforms on the roadmap.

The journey begins with the collection of data from sensors and/or the reading of controls. This is passed to the middleware via edge components that can handle the multitude of possible protocols. There the data is aggregated, stored, visualised and pre-processed before being sent to the SFI.

With retrofitting, older systems can also be monitored. Plug-and-play functionality enables you to install sensors for capturing data. The data can then be integrated into SAP with little effort or expense.

SFI is based on a number of different IoT platforms. For SFI, it does not matter which sensors these platforms use. At ifm, we can supply all the components you need from one single source if necessary. The ifm IoT platforms are compatible with all standard sensors from other manufacturers.

At present, the focus is on sensor and controller data that is relevant to maintenance. However, there are no limits to its potential uses. The solution can be used in the widest variety of sectors and environments.

The first proofs of concept (PoCs) are available in roughly two project weeks. Up to three application scenarios can usually then be implemented (e.g. vibration analysis, valve monitoring, motor current monitoring from the controller).

All SFI applications in SAP are provided with authorization checks that prevent unauthorized access. Furthermore, communication between SFI and the connected IoT platform is encrypted with SSL.

A sensor from an IoT platform can be integrated in SAP in under 10 minutes.

Various cloud models in the SAP world are fundamentally different from the on-premises world. Each model has its advantages and disadvantages.

You can find more information in our three-part blog series:

• SAP S/4HANA on-premises versus cloud
• Going to the cloud: advantages and disadvantages
• SAP S/4HANA cloud models at a glance

There is much to suggest that data protection in the cloud is more professional than in a private cloud or a self-operated on-premises system. This is often due to the fact that professional cloud providers, because of their business model, always use the latest virus defence, carry out regular stress tests and keep their employees up-to-date with the latest developments. Companies that do not operate professional data storage often lack the means and possibilities to do this.

Yes, you can also request our experienced process consultants for your regular supply chain processes.

We are happy to take the time to answer your questions!

The subscription model includes one consultant day per quarter during the entire term. Additional days can be booked at any time

Yes, both technically and in terms of content. We offer implementation workshops, key user training and individual coaching. Already included in the subscription price are two consulting days per year, on which our experts from process consulting are available to you. 

Yes, ifm business solutions gmbh has the status of SAP Silver Partner.

Yes, our products are SAP-certified and are recertified annually.

Supply Chain Excellence

• SAP S/4HANA Cloud, extended edition
• SAP S/4HANA Cloud, private edition, release 2022

GIB Suite

• ABAP Add-On Deployment for SAP Enterprise Resource Planning

We have been an SAP partner since 1998 and today have Silver Partnership status.

YES. The GIB Suite provides support throughout the SCM process, from sales forecasting, through demand and inventory management, materials requirement planning, operational requirement planning, controlling and detailed production scheduling, to vendor-managed inventory and intelligent order optimization.

NO. In addition to introductory and in-depth workshops on our solutions, our academy also offers courses on general SAP topics. Such topics include SAP materials planning and master data and scheduling in SAP.

Yes, our academy offers courses in basic programming knowledge, such as HTML5 and JavaScript for front-end development with SAPUI5, and courses on Fiori app development concepts and application features for advanced users.

In our weekly "Ask the Expert" hour, we give key users the opportunity to ask our experts more specific questions and exchange information with them. You can find more information about “Ask the Expert” here.

After we make contact, we will arrange a free-of-charge introductory appointment either at your location or through a web meeting. As part of this meeting, we will present the GIB Suite live on a demo system. If you already have specific requirements for your solution, we can arrange to address these details.

You can use the contact form on our website to take the first step. We look forward to hearing from you!

Yes, here you will find our app MRP view XLNce.

Yes, this is possible on request. Please feel free to contact us.

The original name of the SAP-based solution was GIB Dispo-Cockpit. This name was abolished in the course of the internationalisation of our software products, instead, we now speak of the GIB Suite.

The GIB Suite, formerly GIB Dispo-Cockpit, has a modular structure. Initially, a solution was developed that was to be used specifically for the day-to-day business of scheduling: GIB Dispo-Cockpit Operations, later GIB Operations and now Operations. The Planning, Forecast and Controlling modules were soon added. Later, Vendor Managed Inventory and Buying were developed. The GIB Suite now comprises 6 modules.

GIB Planning is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Planning, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Planning", is used in production planning and serves to determine the best possible production plan. The user will also find the functionalities of GIB Planning in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Manufacturing process area.

The GIB Forecast is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Forecast, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Forecast", is used in sales planning and serves to determine the sales forecast as accurately as possible. The user will also find the functionalities of the GIB Forecast in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Demand Planning process area.

GIB Controlling is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Controlling, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Controlling", is used in particular in inventory management. Here, the solution identifies over- and understocks, cleans up core deposits and identifies unnecessarily tied-up capital.  The user will also find the functionalities of GIB Controlling in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Inventory Management process area.

GIB Operations is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Operations, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Operations", facilitate and regulate the day-to-day business of scheduling. The solution offers transparency and helps to ensure that the right material is in the right place at the right time, and the right quantity. The user will also find the functionalities of GIB Operations in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Procurement process area. 

GIB Buying is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Buying, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Buying", supports the sensible bundling of orders and ensures the optimal utilisation of load carriers. In this way, the solution contributes to lowering transport costs and reduces CO2 pollution. The user will also find the functionalities of GIB Buying in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Procurement process area. 

The GIB VMI or Vendor Managed Inventory is a module of the GIB Suite on ECC 6.0. Today's Vendor Managed Inventory, formerly "GIB Dispo-Cockpit Vendor Managed Inventory", enables the connection of suppliers without EDI and without additional hardware. VMI is a browser-based solution and allows the supplier limited access to the customer's SAP values. This allows the supplier to plan his materials himself within the scope of his authority, to ensure timely replenishment and to bear the risk of overstocking. The user will also find the functionalities of the GIB Vendor Managed Inventory in the new Supply Chain Excellence on SAP S/4HANA suite, namely in the Procurement process area.

These abbreviations date back to the time of the "GIB Dispo Cockpit" and are a consequence of the software namespace in the SAP system. There, a very limited number of characters are still available today, which must, however, reflect a unique address of the respective product/module. DC stands for Dispo Cockpit and the following letters for C- Controlling, O - Operations, P-Planning, B- Buying, F- Forecast, and V - Vendor Managed Inventory.

Fun fact on the side: Today's "Buying" was originally supposed to be called Purchasing. Would have reflected the functionality better.

Unfortunately, the letter "P" in the GIB name scrabble was already occupied by "Planning" and so "Purchasing" became "Buying".

The company, founded in 1992, was originally called "Gesellschaft für Information und Bildung" (Society for Information and Education). However, since misunderstandings always arose because interested parties and institutions thought the company was an educational institution, it was decided to work exclusively with the abbreviation GIB.

SCX stands for Supply Chain Excellence and is intended to describe the fact that our software solution optimises the supply chain process holistically. The name was the result of a competition to find a name for the company. The jury decided on it and the winner received a voucher.

The MRPviewXLNce cloud app offers SAP S/4HANA customers who want to switch to SAP's business technology platform the opportunity to take central functionalities from ifm's Operations (previously GIB Operations) with them.