The demand for SAP EWM freelancers is growing worldwide. With projects already underway and a shortage of talent to support these upgrades and implementations, SAP EWM freelancers seem to have an endless stream of project opportunities.
The demand for SAP EWM skills means that junior and senior consultants alike are considering further training in this area. If you are already working in SAP WM, TM, LE, Logistics or SCM, transitioning to working as an SAP EWM consultant can be a lucrative career move. So what do you need to do to become a fully-fledged SAP EWM freelancer?
1) GET TRAINED IN SAP EWM
It may seem obvious, but training is the first step to realizing your first SAP EWM project. For SAP consultants currently working with a consultancy or on a permanent contract, your company can provide such training, either by sponsoring you to attend a training course or by running it in-house. The latter is particularly likely if your company is upgrading to EWM anyway.
If you plan to do the training on your own, SAP is obviously the most reputable training provider. There are local training facilities, but these should be thoroughly investigated before enrolling.
2) IMPORT INTO SAP EWM
SAP Press provides some (mostly in English but) reliable resources to supplement learning in seminars and trainings. Here are some basic books to get you started on your journey:
- SAP EWM architecture and programming
- Introduction of extended warehouse management with SAP S/4HANA
- Warehouse management in SAP S/4HANA
- Warehouse management with SAP EWM
In parallel, YouTube demos and tutorial videos from EWM experts will have a great learning effect.
These resources should also be seen as a supplement to certified training rather than a cheap substitute.
3) PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE
In addition to reading, anyone who is serious about making a solid start as an SAP EWM freelancer should gain practical experience of the system - e.g. with SAP EWM access. Even if some providers come from English-speaking countries, the system can usually also be selected in German.
Many freelancers, consultants and experts recommend that newcomers to the practice get access to an IDES server. Having access to an IDES server allows you to practice creating your warehouse from scratch and work in a risk-free environment. This practice will help you to take the first steps in your first project with a little more confidence.
4) STAY IN TOUCH WITH SAP EWM SPECIALISTS
LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for attracting and connecting with like-minded experts in a field. This is no different in the SAP EWM freelancer space. Use this platform to meet with experienced professionals, share experiences and resources.
An insider tip for getting to know experts is to contact good SAP blog operators. The more they write, the more you can learn from them.
5) BUILDING A HOLISTIC UNDERSTANDING OF WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT
Chances are that you come from an SAP WM, LE, TM, logistics or SCM background and already have extensive experience with warehouse processes and standards. For any successful SAP EWM consultant, it is essential to have a strong foundation in warehouse management outside of SAP. This knowledge will enable you to go beyond the basics and add value to your projects.
