Unlock the full potential of SAP EAM

For this ambitious project, RBS enlisted the support of Orianda Solutions AG – a valantic company. Orianda was selected due to its successful implementation of SAP PM for a Swiss transportation company several years ago, during which it built a trustworthy relationship with the three employees involved.

“We knew exactly what we would get with Orianda, and they understood our expectations,” emphasizes Mathias Nussbaum, Head of the Worblaufen Depot at RBS.

In the summer of 2021, valantic consultants conducted extensive workshops at RBS to analyze the system and evaluate the current situation. Based on these insights, Orianda identified valuable optimization opportunities and developed concrete recommendations. The identified potential was then presented to the management of the Rolling Stock department and subsequently incorporated into an EAM optimization project with clear goals. This project began in 2022 with a two-day intensive seminar aimed at achieving two main objectives: First, it was to expand the SAP EAM knowledge of the RBS key users, enabling them to engage actively with optimization possibilities. Key topics included fundamental concepts such as master data, processes, Fiori tiles, and new functionalities. This contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the optimization project, directly enhancing efficiency and performance in maintenance. Additionally, current issues were discussed, and potential improvements were identified. Furthermore, the team immediately implemented identified quick wins—demonstrating the flexibility and spontaneity of all involved.

Adjustments during ongoing operations and on a tight timeline

One major challenge was to adapt the existing role model and integrate additional Fiori applications—all during ongoing operations. This complex task required a high level of technical know-how and a clear vision to ensure that all requirements and adjustments were executed smoothly without impacting operational continuity. Another significant challenge: the project team had to deactivate the existing functions for train drivers and simultaneously activate the new role-based functions within a tight schedule. This coordinated transition required precise planning, thorough testing, and close collaboration among all parties involved.

Numerous benefits across processes

The further development of SAP EAM enabled RBS to achieve several advantages:

The identification of storage locations for necessary materials was automated, reducing input errors and thereby improving usability.

• The identification of cost centers for the vehicle fleet was automated and is now used in order accounting without requiring manual data entry. Here as well, input errors were reduced, and usability was improved.
• Key users were empowered to independently maintain and adjust the parameters for identifying storage locations and cost centers through transactions, providing high flexibility in process automation.
• Role-based permissions were implemented for groups such as train drivers and key users. By using standard Fiori applications, usability was improved, establishing a foundation for further use of standard Fiori apps and additional business roles (e.g., maintenance workers, logisticians).

In addition to these specific benefits, further valuable process improvements were discussed, including the retrograde issuance of materials, recording of feedback on orders, reconditioning of components, and payroll processing.