SRM External Access to Suppliers

[Former Member]

Hi,

We're planning on installing SRM but we're not quite sure on how to achieve full integration with our suppliers. Let's say they install SAP NetWeaver Business Client - what's the better solution to allow them to communicate with our SRM instance? VPN?

Thanks in advance.

Regards,

Ricardo

[former_member208675 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

If you want suppliers to access your system, you should go with Supplier Self-Service (SUS).

It depends on your SRM technical scenario to select SUS scenario. i.e MM-SUS or EBP-SUS.

There is no issue of SUS connection with NWBC (NetWeaver Business Client) or EP (Enterprise Portal).

I hope it helps.

Regards,

[Former Member]

Ricardo,

Generally suppliers involvemnt in SRM business processes are described in 2 ways. ...one using SUS (Supplier Self services) for PO confirmation, perform GR, Invoice and other without SUS where suppliers can participate only in RFX processes like receive and submit bids.

In the first one you need to install SUS component either within SRM system or as a separate system and you can keep it with in the firewall or out side firewall. Suppliers will be given logon credentials to perform the activities in SUS. XI/PI needs to be installed for communicating between SRM and SUS depending on the functionalities (ex. service procurement) suppliers would perform.

In Second one,  SUS is not required as suppliers would perform only RFX activities and nothing else. Here suppliers will be given logon credentials along with roles and they will access SRM system (for RFX) via the URL provided by the purchasers. Suppliers would be outside firewall and your system should allow them based on their roles or some controls which you can decide. With Enhancement Pack 2 (SRM 702) SAP enhanced the security of SRM system for submitting bids from outside the firewall.

Hope the above explanation would help you in deciding the landscape you want based on your needs.

Thanks,

Jagadish