SAP Transportation Management (SAP TM) is a comprehensive logistics and supply chain management software that helps businesses manage their transportation operations efficiently. One of the key components of SAP TM is carrier collaboration, which involves collaborating with carriers to streamline transportation processes, improve visibility, and reduce costs. In this article, we will talk about the S4H-TM new Collaboration Apps, the value-added features that SAP has introduced with the release of 2022 FPS02, and the comparison between the old collaboration portal, BNL-FC, and New Collaboration Apps.
SAP had introduced embedded collaboration apps with S4H-TM 2020 FPS01 as a part of an advanced license. These apps are highly promising and present SAP's commitment towards collaboration portal feature parity to support logistics requirements of shippers' and carriers' communication.
To clear the air around multiple tools/platforms available for carrier collaboration, we must understand that the new collaboration APPs delivered as part of S4 TM are completely different from the Business Network for Logistics- Freight Collaboration and Collaboration Portal (CP). Even with the introduction of the new embedded collaboration Apps with S4 TM, SAP continues to support the integration of the collaboration portal (portal based) with S4 TM. Please refer to note 2858217 on user set-up and restrictions to know more.
Given below are the Apps available on S4TM 2022 FSP02. Additional licensing is not required to use new collaboration Apps. One important point to be noted is that, unlike the BNL platform, these Apps are developed on S4 with dedicated CDS views and Fiori screen for carrier use. It means the carrier will log on to Fiori Apps built on the SAP S4-TM system. The client's network team can challenge this, but it is not something new compared to the old collaboration portal.
In addition, SAP's future roadmap is lined up with freight settlement Apps that include Self-Billing, Invoicing, and Dispute Management.
With the release of S4TM 2022 FSP02, the following features have been introduced to maintain efficient communication between carrier and shipper. The foundation has also been laid to build futuristic capabilities, such as considering the carrier's proposed dates in rescheduling the freight document.
For more information on the New Collaboration Apps, please click here.
Collaboration Apps are developed based on the Fiori framework, which consumes data from virtual data models built on CDS views. As these APPs are embedded in the S4-TM system, additional XML-based integration is not requested, as in the case of SAP Business Network for Logistics integration.
Instructions to set up carrier users are mentioned in note 2858217 under section 3.2. should be followed. A dedicated App, 'Maintain Collaboration User', has been introduced, which can create a collaboration user and at the same time maintain a relationship with a carrier business partner.
The table below outlines a functional matrix comparing all three carrier collaboration tools/ platforms that SAP offers; it should be noted that this is an un-binding matrix subject to change.
Carrier collaboration apps are integral to SAP TM as supply chains become more complex and organizations seek to improve visibility, collaboration, and efficiency in their transportation operations. At ArchLynk, we have extensive domain expertise in SAP TM and can provide comprehensive implementation solutions to help organizations maximize the benefits of the new carrier collaboration apps. Our experts work closely with customers to understand their unique needs and provide tailored solutions aligned with business objectives. Our services include consulting, implementation, and support to ensure customers get the most out of their SAP TM investments. If you are looking for SAP TM solutions that can help you improve collaboration, streamline processes, and increase efficiency in your transportation operations, Speak to an ArchLynk Expert today.
