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SAP WM- Process, Functionality, Scope, Benefits, Advantages, Disadvantage-Complete Reference-Part 19 – TRM [Task & Resource Management :- SAP LE-TRM]
April 6, 2018 | 372 Views | Edit
shivakkumar Geetha venkatesan
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LE (Logistics Execution)
MAN Production Planning (PP)MM (Materials Management)SAP Supply Chain ManagementSD (Sales and Distribution) sapsap trmsap wmSAP WM-LE -Task and Resource Managementtrm
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SAP WM- Process, Functionality, Scope, Benefits, Advantages, Disadvantage-Complete Reference-Part 19 – TRM [Task & Resource Management :- LE-TRM]
SAP TRM- TASK AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Augustine Warner Robins. (September 29, 1882 – June 16, 1940) is often credited as the Father of Logistics. his famous word on modernization cannot be avoided in the world.because new technology invented yesterday becomes past today and today’s one become old tomorrow.. so we cannot avoid or ignore changes..we cannot deny… we now move on to our Warehouse- here too modernization is not ignored.. so every day new tech came in existence..so SAP is doing continuous R& D and bringing new new modules and technology to the ERP/ SCM World.. one among them is TRM- Task and Resource Management.
SAP TRM- Part 1
This blog speaks about the TRM – it advantages, benefits and usage and functionalities..I hope it is more useful to newbies and many experts in SAP WM -can get notified to SAP TRM after reading this blog. Thanks for the continuous Support. I am planning to split SAP TRM blog in to 3 blog and this blog is an intro part of TRM. so name as Part-1. we can see in detail in coming blogs..
SAP’s Task and Resource Management module delivers value by optimizing labor
utilization and providing warehouse process monitoring and controlling
functionality. Bottom line, TRM enables warehouse activities to be executed better,
faster and cheaper than possible without a warehouse optimization engine.
When determining whether TRM is the right fit for your operations, it is important
to consider that TRM best benefits warehouse operations with high levels of
distribution activity, volume and operational complexity. Also important in the
decision-making process is SAP’s future release plans for Yard Management,
Cross Docking and Enhanced VAS. Companies who decide to implement TRM
will gain the benefit of an accelerated supply chain, improved customer service,
better partner relations and overall cost savings.
WHAT IS TASK AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT?
Task cannot be made Tough 🙂 🙂 🙂 [made simple]- so we are using TRM- in Simple and smart answer.. we are explaining the same in terms of business and SAP.
before 10-15 years when you ask a consultant they will say -SAP’s latest step toward logistics optimization is Task and Resource Management
(TRM), an optional component of the SAP Logistics Execution System (LES)
module, and more specifically the Warehouse Management (WM) module.
but if you go and check with the today’s warehouse managers they will tell tons of stories on the importance of SAP TRM and how it helps day to day warehouse process..
TRM strengthens and completes the LES/WM solution by optimizing material
flows via task execution and resource deployment. TRM breaks down material
movements to a task and resource level and optimizes the sequence in which
they are executed, ensuring that the right task is completed by the best resource
at the most optimal time.
TRM helps you to manage your warehouse processes more efficiently because it
achieves an unparalleled degree of process visibility within the system by tracking
any activity performed on the warehouse floor. TRM uses a systemic model of the
warehouse’s physical layout to deploy resources according to the actual workload,
the resource’s qualifications and the current geographic positions of the resources.
The efficient deployment of resources contributes to a considerable reduction of
costs in material flow processing.
WHY WE NEED SAP TRM IN YOUR WAREHOUSE ?
Normally answer from every one is high volume and flow of stock, less time of handling inventories, cut short the cost, improve the operation efficiencies, distributed activities, reduce the operational complexity and involving value added services to improve and optimize Warehouse performance, efficiency.. many people asking me why you are using constantly the words.. improve and optimize Warehouse performance, efficiency. in my blog.. answer is when we speak about Warehouse this words are unavoidable and we cannot ignore it.. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Who look after or manage Task and resource Management functionality?
Answer is Warehouse Manager. he is sole responsible for all the Task created and resource management and this SAP TRM will help them significantly improve and results are more appreciated in day to day warehousing performance.
How TRM functions in a Warehouse ? or what is TRM Resource Control ?
By splitting SAP transfer orders (TOs) into separate SAP tasks, TRM enables the assignment of individual sub-tasks within the warehouse to different resources. This works to maximise the synergies achievable between personnel, stackers, conveyor systems and pallet shuttles, etc.
Maximizes the efficiency of your warehouse processes by:
Creating optimal tasks – it is highly and even i can say widely considered high importance.
Optimizing the allocation of these tasks to warehouse resources – Providing automated solution and thereby avoiding manual work.
Controlling task execution to prevent resource bottlenecks in the warehouse
Providing visibility of all warehouse processes- open to all solution and thereby we can predict the problem and avoid it when facing bottlenecks..
Providing warehouse managers with troubleshooting tools to effectively deal with problems, both before and after they arise.. this is the thing most of the warehouse mangers looking physically..
Supporting value-added activities- it again improve efficiency and optimization of an warehouse..
Providing mobile presentation capabilities, enabling resources to perform tasks via radio frequency devices customized to their personal needs -more important to consider.
In short, TRM provides cost savings and improves your partner relationships by optimizing your supply chain management:
TRM breaks down material movements to a task and resource level and optimizes the sequence in which they are executed.
Ensures that the right task is completed by the best resource at the most optimal time.
TRM helps you to manage your warehouse processes more efficiently because it achieves an unparalleled degree of process visibility within the system by tracking any activity performed on the warehouse floor.
TRM uses a systemic model of the warehouse’s physical layout to deploy resources according to the actual workload, the resource’s qualifications and the current geographic positions of the resources.
Cost savings by deploying your resources more efficiently will optimize your material flow processes and result in a cost reduction.
Does not require the addition of new software, middleware or license fees
Leverages standard SAP functionality and a seamless integration with Warehouse Management and all other modules.
Post implementation advantage/Benefits of SAP LE-TRM
Bundling tasks when a group of them must be handled by one and the same resource.
Optimizing the assignment of tasks by using priority rules. Priority rules can be build based on a predecessors’ priority (e.g. rush order), priority for a task type (e.g. pick for outbound over replenishment), TRM route priority and many more.
Taking several factors in consideration like physical structure of your warehouse, availability of resources, weight and priority, location and length of travel when executing your orders.
Considering the costs of an available resource versus the priority of a given task.
Interleaving: You can have the system analyze the current position of any of your resources when assigning a new task. This way you avoid empty ways.
You can build Value Added Services like labeling, pricing, packaging etc. in the routing of the movement of the material.
Comprehensive Real-time Controls: Analyze each event in the warehouse and adjust task assignments when required.
For companies like coke, Pepsi, FORD, Caterpillar with complex logistical requirements that include yard management, cross docking, and extensive value added services – and require
software to support those functions, it is important to note that SAP’s future
release of the R3 Enterprise product will include advanced functionality for these
three areas.
TRM strengthens the LES/WM solution via optimal task execution and resource
deployment. Where traditional warehouse management systems have focused on
management of the physical warehouse, yard management is a starting point
for extending warehouse management and control outside of the traditional and
beyond the four walls of the warehouse. Viewed as a “handshake function” to
hand over goods from and to transportation, YM will optimize door and dock
utilization and reduce immediate storage needs. Materials that are in trailers
managed by the yard management system will be visible to the SAP system
even though the materials have not been received. This will allow warehouse
managers to bring the right trailers to the receiving dock at the right time.
A technique of processing goods in a warehouse or distribution center where
inbound materials are moved from goods receipt directly to goods issue
without being stored. Cross docking will reduce double handling of materials
and optimize the flow of materials from inbound receipts to outbound demand
while reducing transport paths in the warehouse.
Advanced functionality will be provided to create, monitor and invoice for
enhanced VAS activities in the warehouse such as clothing hanger insertion,
price marking, tagging, and customer-specific packaging and labeling. This
enhancement will be integrated with both TRM and WM.
Current users of SAP WM will find an independent systems configuration
audit and warehouse operational review beneficial prior to undertaking the
implementation of TRM, but it is highly recommended that users considering
TRM as part of the initial WM roll-out seek experienced consulting support
because of TRM’s complexity and abstraction. Another factor that should be weighed when
considering the implementation of TRM is the organization’s ability to decentralize the WM/TRM system. The decentralized WM architecture is strongly recommended for TRM users because of the heavy processor load that TRM can pose for your core system. Implementing decentralized WM should be considered a prerequisite to implementing TRM.
IS TRM RIGHT FOR YOUR WAREHOUSE?
TRM is tailored to be of most benefit to the warehouse with high activity levels,
high volume and complex operations. These and other factors should be
considered when determining whether TRM is a fit for your facility.
n High Level of Distribution Activity & Materials Movement.
TRM was designed to benefit warehouse operations that are more distribution
oriented as opposed to material storage oriented (e.g., a production supply
facility). If efficient management, movement and distribution of materials are
core competencies and critical success factors for your organization, TRM is
a good fit and will significantly enhance your labor efficiencies and minimize
your labor costs.
High Level of Volume.
TRM offers the most value to those facilities with a high level of material flow
velocity (typically characterized by the number of transfer orders), high
transaction volume, a high number of warehouse associates per shift, and
multiple types of material handling equipment. The higher the number, the
better the fit. For example, if you have 50 trailer load outbounds a day, you’ll
reap a much higher benefit from the system than if you only have five.
Operational Complexity.
TRM offers strong functionality for complex material flows, such as the use of
special equipment that cannot physically make certain material moves efficiently,
but instead uses pick and drop locations. The system’s decomposition of TOs into
tasks offers an advantage for these complex scenarios.
Level of Value Added Services.
TRM also offers strong functionality for value added services such as special
labeling, pricing, packaging and hazardous materials notes on shipping
documents. The higher the level of services you offer, the better the fit with TRM.
Benefits of using SAP ECC LE-TRM
Increased Resource Efficiency and Route Optimization.
Resources are deployed based on capacity, qualification, and current position
on the warehouse floor, ensuring optimum routing.
Optimized Material Flow Processing.
TRM organizes the flow of incoming and outgoing goods and internal goods
movements in an optimum way.
Higher Visibility/Transparency.
TRM enables you to always see which tasks and resources are available for
execution, assigned for execution, accepted for execution, and completed.
Accelerated Supply Chain Management.
Better use of resources, improved routing and material flow accelerates and
optimizes the supply chain.
Improved Customer Service and Partner Relations.
An optimized supply chain will ensure better customer service and supplier/partner relations.
Cost Savings.
Optimized processes and decreased labor requirements reduce operations costs.
TRM’s ability to optimize resource deployment, material flow, routing and process
visibility enables an accelerated supply chain, which in turn leads to improved
customer service, better partner relations and overall cost savings.
A few mentions of the TRM Labor Management importance in WMS system:
1. The workforce represents approximately 45% of the operational costs of a warehouse (there is great pressure on reducing the operating costs of the warehouse).
2. Reductions in labor costs per unit handled (% Decrease in warehouse Labor cost per unit handled vs. last year) is the 2nd important performance indicator in the selection of a best in class warehouse.
That’s why are therefore preferred WMS with Labor Management functionality, WMS with Labor Tracking or WMS with Task Management (manager).
When we worked for one Giant logistics company the user asked me- If the Customer Service Department informs the warehouse manager about the worrying increase in the number of nonconforming supplies (missing goods or incorrect quantities, damaged packaging, errors in documents shipping, the timeliness of delivery, etc.). Who is guilty? Can the warehouse manager undertake an analysis of the activity of each employee in the warehouse?
One of the most common problems of WMS that operate on written documents is lost or wandering picking lists.
An analysis of the errors in the paper-based picking system is never a complete one. Some causes may be mentioned:
• lack of picking lists, especially when using the Pick and Pass method (a picker assigned to a storage area) when the original order list is divided into picking sections.
• monitoring processes, (putaway, picking, reception, etc.) rather than each person’s activity.
• data collection and processing are very difficult.
TRM’S UNIQUE CAPABILITIES
TRM is unique in that it uses task selection, prioritization, interleaving and other
capabilities to optimize materials movement while offering the user a transparent
view of warehouse processes. Features and highlights include:
Warehouse Site Map.
A detailed 3D-model of the entire warehouse including storage bins, pick-up
and drop-off points (P&D), work centers, working areas, zones, and all other
geographical points that constitute the warehouse allows TRM to select tasks
for execution with consideration for the time required to execute the task,
given a resource’s present position and the destination of the task.
Task Selection, Assignment and Execution.
TRM selects tasks for assignment to the optimum resource at the optimum
time. Optimization is achieved through the use of priority rules that consider
factors such as the parent document’s priority (e.g., rush order), the base
priority for a type of task assigned in TRM (e.g., pick for outbound delivery over
replenishment), and the TRM route priority, which increases the priority of a
particular task based on the resource’s physical location in the warehouse and
its proximity to completed tasks. TRM executes orders by using an algorithm
that takes several factors into consideration including the following:
> Physical structure of warehouse
> Load
> Availability of resources
> Weighting and Priority
> Location / length of travel
Task Bundling.
TRM also supports task bundling when a group of tasks must be executed by one resource at a given time. TRM offers unique features for optimized materials movement, a transparent view of
warehouse processes and value added services support. With TRM’s support for value
added services, you can easily label goods or accommodate customers’ special packaging
requests.
Very important -TRM Features
> Task Execution
> Prioritization
> Interleaving
> Value Added Services
> Tracking and Monitoring
Prioritization.
TRM uses a priority model to select tasks for assignment to resources. The model
uses objects such as the task priority inherited from the parent document, the
physical location of the resource, the route that a task would require, the attributes
of the resource equipment element, the nature of the task’s load to be moved and
other considerations to select a task for assignment to an available resource. When
the resource completes that assigned task, TRM again calculates which task has
the highest priority for assignment to the resource and makes the assignment. For
each task to be performed, TRM considers the costs of an available resource
compared to the task priority. Overqualified resources are only assigned in case of
very high priority given to task completion and a suitable resource is not available.
Interleaving.
TRM assigns tasks in close proximity to one another, providing a continuous
workflow to the resource and minimizing or eliminating deadheading. Upon
task completion, the system analyzes the resource’s current position to
provide it with tasks whose starting point is close to that current position
making deployment of resources as efficiently as possible.
Value Added Services Support.
TRM provides modeling for value added services such as special labeling, pricing,
and packaging such that the operation can be built into the routing of the material
movement. For example, if there is a need for a special packaging operation or
labeling, then the user will be directed to move the material picked for a particular
delivery to the packaging work center, and after the service is completed, an additional
work task will be generated to move the material to the dock or staging area.
How is TRM achieves Picking?
SAP Task and Resource Management can be used to map out both Goods-to-Person and Person-to-Goods picking systems. Since individual sub-tasks in the warehouse (SAP tasks) can be assigned to a variety of resources, this enables fine-grained task assignment within the warehouse.
TRM Monitor.
Here explains step by step explanation on TRM navigation in SAP ECC.
We can here choose particular activity- VAS, Counting, etc..
after entering text. you can verify the given data and save it. Task generated. you can see the created task below Task node in monitor in left hand side column..
Now Navigating to RF menu to select Operation Task.- Putaway, Picking..VAS etc..
Option #3 – VAS
Task 4715
once you click start – it starts executing the task
System will shows when Task start, Task data and time and we need to enter Quantity =10 Unit =EA etc required for further processing.
Once Task is completely process- click Finish
If no more task a message is displayed- No Task for Resource 36 otherwise it will show next Task.
Click Exit.
Creating Physical Inventory using TRM
Click Assign. now it is assigned to Resource.
Please enter details and click F1- Count
We can see Activity -Counting, Task status- Accepted, Task 741, storage type 002 bin 04-50-03
if no further stock then return to Main menu and again start doing RF blind counting- follow the same steps as before..
In paper-based picking, most times in case of repeated mistakes, it is used the collective penalty, a practice that discourages all workers to be efficiently.
This is because many WMS systems do not allow warehouse manager assessment of the individual worker in the warehouse, such as:
• Number of orders
• Number of order lines
• Average number of lines received, picked, etc.
• Pick quantity per minute / hour / day / month
• The date and time of each order delivery or shipping
• Reception, Putaway, Picking and Delivery discrepancies
• Hourly intervals between deliveries
• Monitoring performance drivers by integrating WMS TMS systems, etc.
The solution is: WMS with Labor and Productivity Tracking function for evaluating individual productivity of employees and establishing proper procedures for penalty or incentive and reward. Implementing performance monitoring option of warehouse operators involves the introduction of bar codes or RFID, allocation of individual tasks and confirmation by the operator at each stage of the internal operations cycle.
All lists on the internal operations of the warehouse are stored electronically for viewing, printing or analysis.
TRM’s monitor makes all the necessary steps within a business process
transparent by keeping warehouse supervisors up to date about the current
status in the warehouse, providing continuous information about workload
bottlenecks, completed tasks, and available resources. Alert warnings for due
date violations give the supervisor the opportunity to initiate the right response.
They can influence task priority and assign tasks to resources via the monitor.
n Comprehensive Real-time Controls.
TRM analyzes each event in the warehouse and can react immediately to
unforeseen situations (e.g., immediately reassigning a replenishment task to a
resource so that it is executed next).
The alternating periods of peak activity and relaxation during the working day.
Warehouse operators tasks are very complex and the job description is provided for the main and secondary activities. For example, the main task of a picker is to pick the assigned orders, but it may have allocated secondary activities like re-slotting, partial inventory, picking area replenishment or other routine tasks. Secondary planning activities are done outside the peak period of activity, but the maintenance of a balance between efficient tasks and resources (people, equipment) is very difficult. Most often secondary tasks are neglected, the operator invoking, without the possibility of being thoroughly contradicted, the reason of time.
What can be done?
Warehouse manager may design rules engines for allocating tasks per operators related to relocation, inventory cycle counting, picking areas replenishment and other related processes depending on the degree of the operators task loading.
Improved productivity is one of the primary benefits of a WMS, and task management is the core functionality that drives labor efficiencies.
Practitioners in the world today say: “If a WMS does not have task management, then it is not, by definition, a warehouse management system”.
What is the user of TRM Monitor ? and what way different from TRM Alert Monitor ?
The TRM Monitor is a tool for keeping warehouse managers constantly up-to-date as to the current situation in the warehouse and to enable them to initiate appropriate responses in light of this situation. The TRM Monitor tracks all tasks performed in the warehouse. Its user interface, including Drag&Drop functionality, enables you to select an LES reference document and “drill-down” to the task and resource levels to ascertain its status.
The purpose of the TRM Alert Monitor is to highlight to warehouse managers actual and potential problematic situations in the warehouse and to provide exception handling tools.The TRM Alert Monitor provides you with alerts when certain conditions are met- handle the exceptions highlighted by the alerts.
What are the important management Functionalities in SAP TRM ?
very important to know about SAP TRM and also this functionalities makes SAP TRM no-1 in Market.
Resource Management manages all the master data relating to resources in the warehouse.
Resource Management does the following:
Administers resources, Manages all information related to resources, including:, Qualifications, Managerial and physical capabilities, Preferences, Characteristics such as velocity, Default presentation device, Dynamic resource information such as last known location, availability and status, Audit trail etc..
Request Management manages requests , representing the documents submitted by LES .
Request Management fulfills the following roles:
Controls the release of requests for execution, Merges request items when required, Submits requests to Task Management, Provides the appropriate method and timing of updates and confirmation back to LES, Tracks the request’s life cycle utilizing its task network, Provides Task Management with relevant execution data, Utilization of TRM in any warehouse.
Task Management is responsible for tasks at all stages, from task creation to task confirmation.
Task Management does the following:
Creates tasks that reflect the system goals. For more information, see Task Creation .
Organizes the tasks internally, Assigns optimal tasks to be executed. For more information, see Task Selection, .Receives execution data from Request Management to support the presentation requirements, Handles exceptions raised by resources via Presentation Management, Informs about any discrepancy between actual execution and the execution plan, Confirms task execution.
Site Map Management consists of the following packages:
Bin Management & Route Management
Presentation Management is responsible for decoupling the business logic from the physical presentation of application data on a selected presentation device, allowing you to choose the way in which assigned tasks are displayed. This is of particular importance to mobile presentations, where flexibility in displaying data on the screen and adjusting transactions to changing requirements is indispensable.
Personalized screen layout in template form (that can be exchanged) and personalized pushbutton set per transaction
You can configure screen settings according to different resource presentation devices. The display profile reflects the properties of the presentation device and defines exactly how data is displayed. You can define the following properties of a presentation device:
Screen width
Number of message lines allowed for this display profile
Maximum number of menu items to be displayed on the screen
Size of pushbuttons
Maximum number of displayed pushbuttons for the display profile
Template screen ID that is used in the display profile
List template screen ID that is used in the display profile
Personalized menu
You can define the following:
Personalized menu to be displayed when you log on to the system
Preferred menu items
The sequence in which menu items appear.
With the SAP ERP-integrated and real-time-capable SAP Task and Resource Management (SAP TRM), any type of automated high-bay warehouse (HBS) and AS/RS for small parts and their integrated conveyor systems can be controlled and optimised – other IT subsystems (MFCs, etc.) are not required. SAP TRM (SAP Task and Resource Management) is ideally-suited for use in controlling logistics systems featuring low to medium complexity and flexibility.
Finally we can say SAP TRM (SAP Task and Resource Management) is typically used for material flow control in automated warehouse systems (AS/RS for small parts, HBS), as well as forklift control in manual warehouses. The deployment of SAP TRM (SAP Task and Resource Management) results in a two-tier system architecture (SAP-PLC) with a maximum level of SAP integration and simple interfaces, making external middle-ware and subsystems (MFS, MFC) surplus to requirements. We can see the related Configuration, usage and complete details in my future coming blogs.. Thanks for giving extended support.
I like to share the Continuation to this SAP TRM Part-1 blog in coming blog as Part-2 & Part 3 .. etc
Thanks to everyone for the continuous support.
Regards,
G.V.Shivakkumar
Please see blog for SAP MM WM EWM LE Module information. I hope it helps to everyone.
shivakkumar Geetha venkatesan
Alert Moderator
1 Comment
Elizabeth mary
April 9, 2018 at 3:36 pm
attendre plus de votre front. ce blog TRM aide de bonne manière. C’est vraiment bon d’apprendre à tout le monde .. garder essayer plus. Je lis vos blogs depuis longtemps et chacun est très utile. J’ai pris l’impression de chacun de votre blog. Ce sera une référence SAP WM complète.
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