Hello Everyone,
In our previous blog, we took a closer look at the Standard and Template Models in SAP GTT, their functionalities, and the significant value they bring to the realm of supply chain management. Building on that exploration, this blog aims to shed light on another indispensable component within the SAP GTT ecosystem – “the Tracking Shipment App”. Let’s delve into the functionalities and benefits that make this app a pivotal tool for streamlining and enhancing the visibility of shipments throughout their journey in the supply chain.
Understanding the Tracking Shipment App:
The Track Shipments app is a pivotal component of Global Track and Trace, designed to monitor milestones and real-time statuses of your shipment during execution. It is used by the transportation planner of the shipper organization and provides various functionalities that redefine the way we manage and visualize the shipment process.
Key Functionalities:
· Real-time visibility
· Event-based tracking
· Geographical tracking
· Document flow
· Collaboration and Notification
Benefits of the Tracking
Shipment App:
· Worklist Efficiency: The app provides a
centralized worklis encompassing all tracking documents, including shipments
from SAP S/4HANA or SAP ERP and documents from SAP TM (Transportation
Management).
· Milestone Monitoring: Transportation
planners can efficiently monitor crucial milestones, including loading start,
loading end, departure, arrival, and more, providing a comprehensive overview
of the shipment’s progress.
· Event Reporting: Planners can seamlessly
report planned and unplanned events, enabling a proactive approach to issue
resolution and continuous process improvement.
· Support for Diverse Scenarios: The app
caters to various scenarios, supporting both parcel tracking and container
tracking within the SAP TM framework.
Process Flow:
· When Freight units and Freight orders are
created in SAP S/4 HANA based on outbound/inbound deliveries, the transactional
data such as FO/FB/FU from SAP TM is extracted using a data extractor.
· Extracted data is sent to GTT as an IDOC
message, initiating the respective tracked process.
· Based on visibility provider settings, relevant
details are sent to carriers/LBN systems, ensuring they are ready to receive
messages.
· Tracking resources, such as truck license
plates, flight numbers, or container numbers, along with freight order details,
are sent to the visibility provider to receive real-time statuses from these
resources.
· The events and other statuses can be received
directly from any solution partner, such as the carrier, LSP, or other business
parties, if they use SAP Logistics Business Network public APIs. Events
received by the SAP Logistics Business Network can also be synchronized back to
the SAP TM system.
The above screenshot shows the process flow based on SAP TM
freight documents and real-time tracking supported by a visibility provider, showcasing
the seamless integration within your supply chain operations.
Conclusion:
The Tracking Shipment App is not just a tool; it’s a
strategic asset within SAP GTT. By providing real-time insights, event-driven
tracking, and collaborative communication features, this app empowers
transportation planners to navigate the complexities of the modern supply chain
with precision and agility. Stay tuned for more insights into SAP GTT, where
each component serves as a catalyst for innovation and excellence in supply
chain management.