AVL – eptos MMD Solution

The introduction of a new standard in master data management has made it possible to reduce complexity and redundancy in data maintenance. It also makes it possible to maintain master data quality at a high level.

Initial Situation

The AVL group is built up by 45 companies which use CAD, PDM, CAE and SRM and CRM systems in addition to the globally available ERP solutions. In order to meet the challenges of a high growth rate in the recent years, the group concentrates on a continuous harmonization of the global process and system landscape. Missing rules in the creation and maintenance of material master data lead to approximately 400,000 inconsistently and unstructured master records in the systems. This meant that a great eal of effort had to be expended on decentralized maintenance as well as a large number of duplicates. The basic requirement at the start of the harmonization project was a clear definition of the material master information which takes the local language variety into account. The decision to use ECLASS for this purpose was based on three main reasons: first, the high number of companies that use eCl@ss as classification and product description standard, second, the availability of different language versions and third, the extensive, ever-evolving portfolio of standard features.

Use

A comparison of several ECLASS-certified solutions was carried out which resulted in the selection of the product eptos™-product master data repository from Paradine GmbH. Based on this, AVL and Paradine created the AVL MMD portal for which the main task is the tructured, clear and system-independent definition, creation and maintenance of the material master information.

Conclusion

The following results have been achieved:

• Duplicate check implemented when material master data is requested or maintained
• Extension of already existing material masters with classification information
• Implementation of a clear and standardized process for the migration of material masters in SAP rollout projects
• Management of the supplier and manufacturer information via the AVL MMD Portal
• Building up a globally applicable terminology database for the specification of material masters

AVL List GmbH

AVL is the world’s largest independent company for the development, simulation and testing technology of powertrains (hybrid, combustion engines, transmissions, electric drive, batteries and software) for passenger cars, trucks and large engines.

AVL is active in the following business divisions:

• Development of powertrain systems:
  AVL develops and improves all kinds of powertrain systems and is a competent partner to the engine and automotive industry.

• Simulation:
  In addition AVL develops and markets the simulation methods which are necessary for the development work

• Engine Instrumentation and Test Systems:
  The products of this business area comprise all the instruments and systems required for engine and vehicle testing.