LeverX supported a prominent European manufacturer in migrating from SAP Ariba Sourcing to SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing, enabling streamlined processes with improved functionality, faster event setups, and enhanced user experience for its procurement teams.
Project Background
A manufacturer in the chemical and agricultural sectors sought to modernize its sourcing processes and enhance procurement efficiency. To achieve this, the company chose LeverX to lead the transition from SAP Ariba Sourcing to the more advanced SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing platform.
Challenges
The company faced several challenges that limited operational efficiency and competitiveness, including:
- Slow setup of sourcing events that delayed procurement timelines
- A cumbersome user interface that affected ease of use and work performance
- Complex navigation, which was difficult for the team to operate efficiently
- Limited visibility into real-time insights for ongoing procurement events
Rationale for SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing Solution
LeverX proposed SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing as the optimal solution to meet the company’s needs for a more agile and user-friendly sourcing platform. Key improvements included:
- Expedited sourcing cycles: Event setup time reduced by half, improving responsiveness.
- Simplified navigation: Intuitive, single-page workflows eliminate cumbersome tab navigation.
- In-app guidance: Tutorials and built-in support tools streamline event creation and management.
- Advanced search and analytics: Enhanced filtering and search functions ensure data-driven decision-making.
- Integrated communication tools: Seamless collaboration with suppliers and stakeholders within the platform.
- Expedited sourcing cycles: Setting up sourcing events is twice as fast, enabling the company to respond promptly to procurement needs.
- Simplified navigation: Users can work within a single, intuitive page, reducing the learning curve and eliminating the need for tab-based navigation.
- Enhanced support and guidance: The platform provides in-app guidance and tours for easier event creation and management.
- Powerful search and analytics: Enhanced search and filtering capabilities allow users to quickly locate suppliers, assess bids, and make data-driven decisions.
- Collaborative communication tools: Messaging functions enable seamless interaction with stakeholders and suppliers directly within the platform.
Project Implementation
The project deployment was made up of 5 stages:
- Team assembly and planning
LeverX brought together experienced SAP Ariba consultants, architects, and project managers to create a tailored project roadmap, ensuring effective deployment and knowledge transfer. - Prototype development
An agile approach allowed the team to develop and refine a prototype, incorporating early feedback to align with the company’s specific needs. - Stakeholder testing and iteration
The prototype underwent multiple testing cycles, ensuring usability and adoption readiness through iterative improvements. - Final deployment
The full solution was implemented within three months, meeting timeline and budget targets. - Project wrap-up and feedback
Comprehensive training and knowledge transfer equipped the client’s procurement team to confidently use the new solution. Positive feedback underscored satisfaction with the platform’s ease of use and performance.
Key Solution Highlights
- 360° supplier view
Users gain a comprehensive snapshot of suppliers, supporting more informed sourcing decisions.
- Bulk editing features
Allows for the efficient management of supplier information and event details, enhancing process efficiency.
- Real-time event monitoring
After creating sourcing events, users can easily track status, review bids, and analyze award scenarios across suppliers.
Technical Architecture
- SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing
- SAP S/4HANA
- SAP Cloud Integration Gateway (CIG)
Results from Collaboration
The migration to SAP Ariba Guided Sourcing brought significant enhancements to the company’s sourcing processes. Improvements included faster event setups, streamlined workflows, and enhanced communication capabilities. With a modern, user-friendly platform in place, the procurement team is well-positioned to support future innovation and business growth.