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Using process automation to improve compliance in SAP

SSC Directors or Managers using SAP to manage multiple processes including P2P, O2C, HR and Master Data will be more than familiar with issues such as fragmented communications with subsidiaries, suppliers, customers and internal functions; and a speed of execution which feels like everything is being dealt with as an exception. As documentation, and data levels increase it becomes difficult to ensure visibility, audibility or even retain control. All of which destabilises business process compliance.

Developments in automated document capture have seen the technology evolve in recent years to incorporate streamlined workflow and business process, to the extent that it can now reside within SAP systems themselves. This delivers a new level of control that has been lacking. Any entered information can now be automatically matched against SAP data, including master or transactional data. In fact it is now possible to control and improve the master data process to drive higher levels of accuracy and real time automation.

With a single control centre within the familiar SAP environment it is possible to approve and process incoming documents – delivery notes, sales orders and remittance advices – no matter how they arrive. This capability can also be extended beyond document-driven processes to encompass request-driven processes. So for example, purchase requisitions, requests for master data changes or creation of business data can be entered as requests directly into SAP, and then be sent automatically to the correct person for approval. This creates a free-flowing, automated set of processes, enabling staff to focus on, and solve a minimal number of true exceptions. Discrepancies between information being processed and the data in SAP can be instantly flagged to the user, so there is better visibility, faster response times and improved audibility.

The business value is considerable: reducing costs; lowering headcount; and increasing business agility as the bulk of processes and transactions are automated. But it is the improved level of control over information within SAP, that document or request-driven process automation provides, which enables new capabilities for delivering early notification of errors. Improved data visibility, better problem solving and more accurate and timely record keeping means departments and managers can more easily achieve expected levels of business compliancy.