Keeping Production on Track: Mastering Order Change Management in SAP PP

In the fast-paced manufacturing world, unforeseen circumstances can necessitate changes to production orders. However, haphazard modifications can wreak havoc on your production schedule and material availability. This is where Order Change Management (OCM) in SAP PP comes in, providing a structured approach to handling these modifications.

Why OCM?

Imagine a scenario where a crucial component in your production order becomes unavailable. Without OCM, you may scramble to change the order directly, overlooking dependent processes and material requirements. OCM offers a more controlled approach with several benefits:

• Improved Traceability: Track changes to production orders, ensuring a clear audit trail for future reference.
• Reduced Errors: Mitigate the risk of inconsistencies by following a defined change process.
• Enhanced Planning: OCM allows for a proper assessment of changes’ impact on production scheduling and material needs.
• Streamlined Communication: Facilitate clear communication between departments involved in the change process.

The OCM Workflow

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the OCM workflow in SAP PP:

1. Create a Change Number: Initiate the process by generating a unique change number in transaction code CC01.
2. Define the Change: Specify the type of change (e.g., Bill of Materials (BOM) modification, quantity adjustment) and the affected production orders.
3. Release the Change: After approvals, release the change number using a designated release key.
4. Implement the Change: Utilize the change number to update the production order. SAP provides options for analyzing the impact, simulating changes, and confirming the modifications.

Configuration Considerations

For OCM to function effectively, some configuration steps are essential:

• Overall Change Profile: Define the overall profile in SPRO to determine which object types (e.g., production orders) can be subjected to change management.
• Material Master Integration: Link the Overall Change Profile to the material master data in the work scheduling view.

OCM Methods: Tailored for Your Needs

SAP PP offers various methods for implementing changes, allowing you to choose the approach that best suits your scenario:

• Manual Changes: Directly modify the production order for minor adjustments.
• Re-reading Master Data: Update the order by referencing the latest revision of the Bill of Materials.
• Assembly Order/ATO Scenario: In Assemble-to-Order (ATO) scenarios, changes in the sales order are automatically reflected in the production order.

Conclusion

By leveraging Order Change Management in SAP PP, you can ensure that production modifications are handled efficiently and transparently. With improved control and traceability, OCM empowers you to navigate production changes confidently, minimizing disruptions and maintaining a smooth flow of operations.