SAP Master Data Management enables the software to synchronize heterogeneous applications. The system allows easy distribution of data to SAP and non-SAP applications. It helps the system to define the business network environment where industry specific business elements can be collected as Master data. The system allows the organization to have a central server that is connected to all the clients' machines through SAP EI and the data can be transferred in XML format.
The master data can be used in various processes and applications because it has the feature of data consistency. The master data objects can be identified and can be distributed easily within the company and even beyond the company's boundaries.
The Netweaver data management system integrates business processes by using the features of master data consolidation, master data synchronization, central data maintenance, master data administration, internal content management, multichannel syndication of content analytics and reporting.
For standard implementation first content consolidation is done where the data and objects are defined. The data is cleaned as the duplicates are removed and then the data is normalized. After normalization and segregation, central catalogue is designed which can be identified in various modules across the organization and even beyond.
After content consolidation, the software implementation requires Master Data Harmonization, Central Data Maintenance, Rich Product Content Management and Global Data Synchronization.
Master Data Harmonization - To harmonize the data, first the systems are provided with the global attributes. The global attributes are common attributes which occupies global space and are identified globally. It allows the business processes to be performed securely and easily. Later the content is consolidated and distributed.
Central Master Data Management - It allows the data to be controlled through a central location and in this step all the data of the organization is harmonized to provide a one stop data maintenance.
No data is maintenance at the client's systems.
Rich Product Content Management - It is a process where the catalogue management and publishing is done using the elements from the content consolidation module. The data is then centrally stored in the form of files, images etc. The elements are stored with the standard content to provide easy product catalogue where it is produced in print format. The system keeps a standard adapter to export data to Desktop Publishing packages.
Global Data Synchronization - The scenario allows the trade items to be exchanged with business partners and retailers through a data hub.
1. It helps in viewing the data clearly across systems.
2. It is very easy to implement as the master data can be used to automate distribution and to subscribe models.
3. Duplicates can be removed as some of the masters are common worldwide.
4. It helps in providing analysis of various master data such as the supplier, business partners etc.
5. It provides clarity to negotiate with business partners, decision making, translation of changes into profits and reducing the IT maintenance cost.
6. The features also help in designing user interface which are used by the end users.
