Topic Covered -

1. SAP TM Training Session Overview
2. Transportation Management in SAP Systems
3. Carrier Selection, Configurations, and Integration
4. Transportation Management Consultant Demand
5. TM Module Integration and Roles
6. Team Module and Recording Capabilities
7. Live Session Clarifications and Processes
8. Finance Module and Integration Challenges
9. OTM Integration and ERP Systems
10. Transitioning From SD to TM Discussion
11. ATP Project Status and Future
12. SAP Consulting Career Paths Discussed

SAP TM Training Session Overview

The meeting focused on the upcoming SAP TM training session for SAP HANA. Parminder explained that the session would primarily serve as an overview and demo, with Rohan as the main speaker. Participants were encouraged to raise any questions or concerns during the session. Rohan, a SAP TM trainer with years of experience, introduced himself and provided a brief overview of the SAP TM module, emphasizing its niche nature but not its difficulty. He also clarified that his location in the Indian time zone would facilitate communication with participants from different time zones.

Transportation Management in SAP Systems

The discussion outlines the core process of Transportation Management (TM) in SAP systems. Rohan explains that TM can be implemented either at the shipper's end or through a logistics service provider. He describes the six pillars of TM: master data setup, order management, planning, execution, settlement, and integration. The process typically involves creating orders, planning transportation routes and modes, executing the movement of goods, and settling payments with carriers and customers. Rohan emphasizes that while master data is a one-time setup, the other four pillars are recursive processes that consultants will focus on learning and implementing.

Carrier Selection, Configurations, and Integration

Rohan discussed the topics covered in the upcoming session, including carrier selection, configurations, charge calculation, and integration of event management. He clarified that warehouse billing is not part of the SAP Teams process. He also addressed queries about the scope of the Transportation Management (TM) module for a Materials Management (MM) consultant and the likelihood of covering all topics in the 40-hour session. Parminder emphasized the importance of upskilling after becoming a SAP MM consultant, suggesting niche modules like TM and EWM for this purpose. Rohan confirmed that he would cover the TM-EWM integration and that a combination of SD and TM is a good one to pursue.

Transportation Management Consultant Demand

Parminder and Rohan discuss the high demand for Transportation Management (TM) consultants in the market. Parminder explains that even in projects using non-SAP TM solutions, SAP TM consultants are still required for integration with S/4HANA systems. He mentions three factors contributing to increased demand: S/4HANA adoption, classic TM usage with existing licenses, and integration needs with third-party TM systems. Priyank seeks advice on choosing between TM and BRIM (Billing and Revenue Innovation Management) specializations, expressing interest in both areas.

TM Module Integration and Roles

Parminder and Priyank discussed the integration of the Transport Management (TM) module into the core product of SAP S/4 Hana. Parminder suggested that the TM module would likely see more adoption due to its integration into the core product, while Priyank expressed interest in maintaining his role as a core SAP SD consultant while also gaining experience in TM. Parminder advised Priyank to gain hands-on experience in the system and consider an internship program to enhance his CV. The discussion also touched on the potential for Priyank to work on dual roles in SD and TM for different projects. Additionally, Pingali from Kenya joined the meeting, expressing interest in learning about the TM module and its application in his company's parcel industry.

Team Module and Recording Capabilities

Rohan and Parminder discussed the team module and its recording capabilities. Parminder explained that the team module provides a comprehensive bundle of content, including videos, training sessions, and detailed guides. He emphasized that the content is not limited to the current batch, but also includes previous batches and live recordings. Parminder also highlighted the availability of additional courses, such as a 200-hour video course on various topics, and a 10-hour course on Fiori. He mentioned that these courses are provided free of charge as part of the bundle. Parminder also mentioned that they are planning to launch a new version of the team module, TM 2.0, which will cover logistics and LSP scenario integration in more detail.

Live Session Clarifications and Processes

Sridhar raised two questions about the live session, which Rohan responded to. Rohan clarified that both outbound and inbound processes would be covered in the live session and that the inbound process is less relevant for an MM consultant who wants to upskill in TM. Rohan explained that from a TM perspective, only a triggering document is needed, whether it is a purchase order from MM or a sales order from SD. He also addressed Sridhar's concern about the configuration process by stating that the TM only needs a document coming into it. Rohan further clarified that the inbound process, including the adjustments of costs into materials, would be handled in the MM side. He also explained that the finance system integrated with the TM system will talk to each other as an intermediary module and that the data from the TM gets transformed into the MM side. Rohan also clarified that the outbound process would only cover the TM cycle, not the entire end-to-end cycle including the creation of PO and service entry sheet. He assured Sridhar that the integration nodes and what all things have to be taken care of are captured in the related segmented finance segments.

Finance Module and Integration Challenges

In the meeting, Parminder clarified that for the finance-related segment, any errors need to be resolved by the finance consultant, and the finance module is a full-fledged one. He also mentioned that there are videos available to help with any issues that arise. Sridhar expressed concern about integration challenges, to which Rohan assured him that he would guide him through each integration touch point. Hari asked about prerequisites for joining the team, to which Rohan responded that there was no need to have prior knowledge, and he would guide Hari through the process. Hari also asked about the future scope of the logistics module, to which Parminder responded that despite the Blue Yonder and Oracle TMW gaining more market share, the SAP TM has seen a significant increase in its market share due to its adoption in S4 Hana.

OTM Integration and ERP Systems

Parminder discussed the integration of Oracle Transport Management (OTM) with SAP's HANA, noting that even if OTM's market share increases, the demand for TM consultants will still rise due to the need for integration. Hari clarified that OTM is an Oracle product and would likely be connected to Oracle ERP systems. Parminder explained that changing ERP systems can take a minimum of 10 to 12 years for large companies. He also emphasized that SAP is the leading ERP system globally, with Oracle not being as consistent. Parminder offered to provide opportunities for learning and career development, but stressed that they do not offer backdoor entries. He also mentioned that they are associated with three companies that handle TM-related projects and can help with CVs and interview calls.

Transitioning From Sd to Tm Discussion

Kamalpreet sought advice on whether to transition directly to Tm from Sd. Parminder recommended gaining more Sd experience, possibly through an internship, before making the switch. Khaja, who has experience as an ERP consultant, asked about the Sap Mm Mastery Bundle. Parminder advised Khaja to enroll immediately and suggested focusing on the recorded videos, while also attending live sessions whenever possible. Khaja's notice period ends in May, and Parminder estimated it would take around three months to complete the course.

Atp Project Status and Future

The team discussed the status and future of the Atp project. Parminder clarified that Atp is currently a self-paced, recorded content with annual sessions to cover new developments. It was initially considered a subspecialty but has grown into a standalone module. Atp is linked with St and Sd, and experience in consulting in these areas is necessary. The team also discussed the duration of the Saptm internship, which is around 3 to 4 months. Narendra asked about the job market in India for the Sd team, to which Parminder responded that India tends to adopt innovations slower than Europe and the US. Priyank asked about the possibility of attending Tm 2.0 with the same subscription as Cptm, to which Parminder responded that it would be a separate course with a separate fee. Lastly, Priyank inquired about the content of the Atp course, to which Parminder confirmed that it covers the basics of Atp and then delves into more complex aspects.

SAP Consulting Career Paths Discussed

Parminder advises participants on career paths in SAP consulting, recommending courses based on individual goals and experience. He suggests the Function Module Overview course for technical consultants seeking functional knowledge, and the ABAP for Functional Consultants course for those wanting to become techno-functional. Parminder emphasizes the importance of gaining implementation project experience and offers project support services for those transitioning to new modules. He also mentions upcoming courses in TM and IBP, and the availability of a Diamond membership for access to all SAPsaGig courses.