Understanding the different ARIBA Sourcing project types in SAP is essential for both beginners and advanced users to streamline procurement processes and achieve effective sourcing management. SAP Ariba provides robust tools to create and manage sourcing projects efficiently. This tutorial will explore the two main types of Ariba sourcing projects: Quick Projects and Full Projects. We’ll discuss how they work, their benefits, and when to use each type.
Overview of ARIBA Sourcing Project Types
When managing sourcing activities in SAP Ariba, it’s crucial to choose the correct project type for your organization’s needs. SAP Ariba offers two main types of sourcing projects:
- Quick Projects
- Full Projects
Each of these project types serves different purposes and is suitable for distinct scenarios based on the complexity of the sourcing requirements. Let’s dive into each type in detail.
ARIBA Sourcing Quick Projects
Quick Projects are ideal for simple and fast sourcing events. They use predefined templates, which makes them suitable for straightforward procurement activities such as RFIs, RFPs, or auctions. These projects are perfect for scenarios that require minimal customization and are meant to be user-friendly for beginners.
| Quick Projects | |
|---|---|
| Definition | Designed for fast and simple sourcing events, such as RFIs, RFPs, or auctions. |
| Templates | Uses default SAP Ariba templates with limited customization. |
| Event Focus | Suitable for a single sourcing event, e.g., a simple RFP or auction. |
| Customization | Limited customization. Not suitable for complex sourcing needs. |
| Ideal Usage | Best for small, straightforward events with tight timelines or basic sourcing needs. |
| Benefits | Speed, simplicity, and user-friendly, ideal for beginners. |
ARIBA Sourcing Full Projects
Full Projects are intended for more detailed and complex sourcing activities. They allow for greater customization, multiple sourcing events, and comprehensive workflow management. Full Projects are best for situations where multiple teams are involved, and detailed processes such as planning, supplier evaluation, and negotiations are required.
| Full Projects | |
|---|---|
| Definition | Allows for detailed and complex sourcing activities with support for multiple events. |
| Templates | Uses any available or custom templates, aligning with business processes. |
| Event Scope | Supports multiple sourcing events, e.g., starting with an RFI and progressing to an auction. |
| Process Management | Comprehensive management with tasks, document storage, and collaboration tools. |
| Ideal Usage | Suitable for complex sourcing needs, multiple teams, and detailed workflows. |
| Benefits | Flexibility, comprehensive workflow management, and support for multiple sourcing phases. |
ARIBA Sourcing Full Project Flow
Understanding the sourcing project flow helps visualize how Quick Projects and Full Projects differ in practice. Below is a simplified overview of the Ariba Sourcing Project Flow for both project types:
- Decide Type of Project: The first step is deciding whether the sourcing activity will be a Quick Project or a Full Project based on the complexity of the sourcing requirements.
- Select Template: For Full Projects, you can choose any available template, including custom templates that align with your business processes.
- Create Event: Once the project type and template are selected, create the sourcing event (e.g., RFI, RFP, or auction).
- Add Content: Add documents, suppliers, tasks, and any other information necessary for the event.
- Modify Rules: Customize the event rules, such as auction start and end times or evaluation criteria.
- Invite Suppliers: Invite suppliers to participate in the sourcing event.
- Monitor and End Project: Publish the event, monitor the participation, and end the project when all activities are complete.
Quick Projects vs. Full Projects: A Comparison Table
| Feature | Quick Projects | Full Projects |
|---|---|---|
| Templates | Predefined templates | Customizable templates |
| Event Scope | Single sourcing event | Multiple sourcing events |
| Customization | Limited customization | Full customization |
| Process Management | Minimal | Comprehensive, includes document storage |
| Ideal For | Simple, quick sourcing events | Complex, multi-phase sourcing processes |
| Users | Beginner-level, basic sourcing needs | Advanced users with detailed needs |
- What is SAP ARIBA?
- SAP Ariba Roles and Responsibilities?
- What is SAP Ariba product Portfolio?
- What is the SAP Ariba Dashboard?
- What is SAP Ariba Sourcing?
- Defining SAP Ariba Sourcing Terminology
- Different Ariba Sourcing Tools and Services.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the different ARIBA Sourcing project types in SAP—Quick Projects and Full Projects—allows procurement professionals to choose the best approach based on the complexity and requirements of their sourcing events. Quick Projects are best for simple, fast sourcing activities that require minimal customization, whereas Full Projects are ideal for managing complex sourcing initiatives that need in-depth process management and multiple events.