LIMS SAP integration and ERP interface
LIMS SAP integration with [FP]-LIMS exchanges inspection specifications, results and usage decisions bidirectionally with SAP® QM in SAP S/4HANA® software. For other ERP systems, the module provides a framework that we configure for your system.
- From ProfessionalModule, licensed separately
- SAP® QMCommands and queries built in
- BidirectionalLab and ERP
- AutonomousLab keeps running without ERP
One module for your ERP system
The ERP interface connects [FP]-LIMS to your company's ERP system. Lab and ERP work with the same data, with no retyping and no media breaks.
Framework
BasisThe module provides the framework for data exchange. We configure the rest for your ERP system.
Ready for SAP® QM
SAP®The interface is built specifically for SAP® QM. Commands and queries are already included, so very little needs to be adapted.
Bidirectional
Data flowInspection orders come from the ERP into the lab. Results and usage decisions go back.
Autonomous
Operation[FP]-LIMS has its own data storage. If the ERP is down, the lab keeps working and synchronises afterwards.
LIMS SAP integration with SAP® QM
LIMS SAP integration connects [FP]-LIMS bidirectionally with SAP® QM in SAP S/4HANA® software. Companies with an SAP® landscape receive the SAP interface with the ERP interface module.
What is exchanged
The interface covers the core of quality inspection in SAP® QM.
- Download inspection specifications from SAP® QM
- Download inspection points from SAP® QM
- Upload results to SAP® QM
- Upload the usage decision to SAP® QM
How it connects
[FP]-LIMS communicates with SAP S/4HANA® software via RFC over the QM-IDI interface.
- Communication via RFC (Remote Function Call)
- Compatible with RISE with SAP S/4HANA® Cloud
- Commands and queries for SAP® QM built into the module
Data exchange between LIMS and ERP
Which data flows is defined with you during setup. Typical data:
ERP to LIMS
What the lab needs for testing.
- Master data (material, batch, supplier)
- Inspection lots and inspection orders
- Inspection plans, for example triggered by a goods receipt
- Specifications and limits
LIMS to ERP
What the ERP needs for release and stock.
- Test results
- Usage decisions (release or block)
- Certificate data
- Deviations
If your ERP makes the usage decision, results and deviations go back to it, and the decision is taken in the ERP.
Typical workflows with the ERP interface
- 01
Incoming goods inspection
A goods receipt in the ERP triggers an inspection plan. The lab tests the delivered goods, and the result goes back to the ERP.
- 02
Batch release
Production batches are tested in the lab. The release status goes to the ERP.
- 03
Certificate data
For mill test certificates, the lab supplies the tested data to the ERP.
Which ERP systems can be connected?
The module is not tied to one ERP system. Integrations we have implemented:
SAP S/4HANA® with SAP® QM
Specifically prepared: commands and queries for SAP® QM are included in the module.
Microsoft Dynamics® / Navision
Connected via the module's framework, configured for your system.
Other and in-house ERP systems
We also connect other and in-house ERP systems if they provide an export format or allow database access.
Instrument drivers, text import or ERP interface?
Not every connection needs the ERP module. How the three options differ:
| Instrument drivers | Text import | ERP interface | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Connect measuring instruments | Import orders and inspection orders from text files | Data exchange with the ERP in both directions |
| Cost | always included | free of charge | Module, licensed separately |
| Requirement | Light: one instrument, Standard and above: unlimited | no additional licence | [FP]-LIMS Professional |
| Feedback to the ERP | – | – | ✓ |
| Ready for SAP® QM | – | – | ✓ |
The ERP interface is a module for [FP]-LIMS Professional and is licensed separately. Which edition fits your lab is shown in the edition comparison.
Frequently asked questions about the ERP interface
Do we need an SAP® system to use [FP]-LIMS?
No. [FP]-LIMS works independently of the ERP system, and even without any ERP. Integration with SAP® QM is a plus for companies with an SAP® landscape, but not a requirement.
How does the integration with SAP® QM work?
Inspection specifications and inspection points come from SAP® QM into [FP]-LIMS; results and the usage decision go back. [FP]-LIMS communicates with SAP S/4HANA® software via RFC over the QM-IDI interface. The integration is compatible with RISE with SAP S/4HANA® Cloud.
Which ERP systems are supported?
SAP S/4HANA® with SAP® QM, Microsoft Dynamics / Navision, and other or in-house ERP systems, provided they offer an export format or allow database access.
In which edition is the ERP interface available?
From [FP]-LIMS Professional, as a module with a separate licence. For companies with an SAP® landscape, the SAP interface is part of the ERP interface.
What happens if the ERP system goes down?
Lab operations continue without restriction. [FP]-LIMS is an autonomous subsystem with its own data storage. As soon as the ERP is available again, the LIMS automatically synchronises the data collected in the meantime.
Isn't the text import enough?
For simple cases, yes: orders and inspection orders can be imported free of charge via text import. For exchange in both directions, such as results and usage decisions back to the ERP, you need the ERP interface.
See [FP]-LIMS
in Your Lab Context
Michael Kramer will walk you through [FP]-LIMS in 30 minutes and explore the potential for your specific process together with you. No strings attached, no sales pressure.