How to Choose a Mobile Solution for SAP EWM: Key Criteria to Consider

In many SAP EWM projects, the issue of mobility comes up early on.

Should we keep the standard RF screens?
Should we switch to Fiori?
Should we integrate a dedicated mobile solution?

The market today offers several approaches, some with similar promises: modernization, performance, and usability.

However, there are significant differences in terms of architecture, deployment, performance, and adoption in the field.

This guide provides a structured framework for evaluating these solutions and making a choice that best suits your needs.

Why the choice of a mobile solution is critical

Contrary to popular belief, mobility is not merely a matter of user interface.

It directly impacts:

• operational performance
• data quality
• ease of deployment
• long-term maintenance
• adoption by teams

A poor choice can lead to workarounds, low adoption, and additional IT complexity.

Conversely, the right solution becomes an immediate driver of performance.

The 8 Key Criteria for Choosing an SAP EWM Mobile Solution

1. Integration method with SAP

This is the first criterion to analyze.

Questions to ask:

• Is the solution 100% integrated with SAP?

• Does it use SAP transports?

• Does it require middleware?

Direct integration minimizes risks and simplifies maintenance.

2. Technical Architecture

Not all solutions are based on the same architecture:

• ITS Mobile (RF)
• Fiori / UI5
• Dedicated mobile apps

Key Considerations:

• Compatibility with different S/4HANA versions

• Technical dependencies / Maintainability

• Deployment complexity

A simple architecture is often more sustainable.

3. End-user experience

This is a key factor for success.

To evaluate:

• Number of steps per transaction

• Screen readability

• User guidance

• Error handling

• Scan management

A good UX reduces training needs and improves productivity.

4. Performance and Speed of Execution

In a warehouse, a few seconds per operation make all the difference.

To analyze:

• Response time

• Smoothness of workflows

• Ability to handle high volumes

Actual performance must be tested under real-world conditions.

5. Exception handling

An aspect that is often underestimated.

Does the solution make it easy to handle:

• Inventory discrepancies

• Partial picks

• Non-standard cases

Poor exception handling quickly undermines operations.

6. Compatibility with terminals

Warehouses primarily use industrial terminals, particularly Zebra devices running Android.

To be verified:

• Compatibility with Android

• Utilization of scanning and photo-taking capabilities…

• User interface optimized for the device

A solution must be designed with the hardware in mind, not just for SAP.

7. Offline capability

Depending on the environment, offline mode may be critical.

Key questions:

• Does the solution work without a network connection?

• How are synchronizations handled?

• How are brief connection interruptions handled?

• What are the limitations?

It’s important to carefully evaluate the claims surrounding offline functionality.

8. Deployment and Maintenance

Finally, it’s essential to plan ahead for the project.

Points to analyze:

• Deployment time

• Configuration effort

• Ease of updating

• Dependence on specific developments

A solution that can be deployed quickly allows you to generate value faster.

Summary Table of Criteria

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Solution

Relying solely on the SAP standard
Underestimating the impact of the user experience
Failing to test under real-world conditions
Neglecting maintenance costs
Choosing a solution that is too complex

Separating the choice of devices (PDAs, tablets, etc.) from the choice of solution

Conclusion: Prioritize real-world execution

The choice of a mobile solution for SAP EWM should not be guided solely by technical criteria or by default.

It must be evaluated based on a simple objective: to tangibly improve the execution of field operations.

The criteria presented in this guide help structure this decision-making process and avoid suboptimal choices.