Green is the New Gold: Unlocking the Power of your SAP system for a better tomorrow. Together.

I wanted to share some thoughts on a topic that’s close to my heart—sustainability—and how we can harness technology to build a greener future. It’s a conversation we need to have, and I believe that with the right tools and mindset, we can make a significant impact.

As the world grapples with climate change and environmental challenges, businesses are increasingly focusing on sustainability. And guess what? Technology plays a crucial role here. One standout solution in this arena is SAP Billing and Revenue Innovation Management (SAP BRIM), while known for streamlining billing and revenue processes, it also offers powerful features to drive sustainability.

 

Nearly everyone uses services like Netflix or Spotify, which have transformed media consumption by offering subscription-based access to extensive content libraries. This shift reduces reliance on physical media and the associated waste. In transportation, companies like Zipcar and Lime offer subscription and usage-based models, providing sustainable urban mobility options. Similarly, many companies now deliver products through subscription models, enabling predictable demand and minimizing waste from overproduction. As we move towards this future, SAP BRIM will play a crucial role in supporting these sustainable business models.

Our example is horYzon which specializes in managing the lifecycle of electronic devices and ensuring that materials from these devices are recycled and reused effectively.

 

 

When a new electronic device is registered on our horYzon platform, SAP Subscription Billing tracks its entire lifecycle tracking maintenance schedules, firmware upgrades, and eventual recycling and offering subscription-based service plans for regular device check-ups and updates. This comprehensive tracking ensures devices are maintained efficiently, extending their lifespan and facilitating proper recycling at the end of their use.

Managing the financial aspects of our recycling services is crucial we use SAP Convergent Charging (SAP CC) to calculate and manage fees for recycling services, such as device pick-up and processing; SAP Contract Accounts Receivable and Payable (SAP FI-CA) to handle all related financial transactions and SAP Convergent Invoicing (SAP CI) for ensuring transparency and efficiency in billing and payments. This way customers understand the costs associated with recycling, and we maintain clear, efficient financial records.

Efficient management of customer orders and services is key. Using SAP Subscription Order Management (SAP SOM) to streamline the order process for recycled devices and services, ensuring timely and accurate order fulfillment or to keep detailed records of customer interactions, preferences, and service history, enabling personalized and efficient service. Orders are processed efficiently, and customers receive personalized service, enhancing their overall experience and encouraging repeat participation in recycling programs.

Managing data from multiple sources is crucial for streamlined operations. We use Convergent Mediation to gather data from various systems, including device performance, customer interactions, and recycling processes; Normalize and process data in real-time to ensure accuracy and consistency across all systems; Provide integrated data insights to enhance decision-making in maintenance scheduling, customer support, and recycling logistics. By automating data collection and processing, we ensure that our systems have accurate and up-to-date information, leading to more efficient operations and better sustainability outcomes.

Ensuring the integrity of our recycling processes is vital and here again Convergent Mediation continuously monitors transactions for unusual patterns or discrepancies that could indicate fraudulent activities generating automatically alerts for suspicious activities and trigger appropriate response protocols. Also to validate the authenticity of data related to device returns, recycling claims, and financial transactions to prevent fraud. Enhanced security and trust in our recycling programs, ensuring that materials are recycled ethically and sustainably.

 

The Bigger Picture

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a necessity. With increasing ESG reporting requirements and changing regulations, companies are under pressure to adapt. Consumers want to know about production conditions, environmental responsibility, and sustainability efforts. Employees are making job decisions based on sustainability reports, and investors are demanding more ESG information.

In this evolving landscape, solutions like SAP BRIM are invaluable. They help businesses stay ahead of regulations, meet stakeholder expectations, and most importantly, contribute to a healthier planet.

 

Let’s Do This Together

As we navigate these challenges, remember: Green is the new gold. By unlocking the power of our SAP systems, we can create a better tomorrow. It’s a journey we need to embark on together – one step at a time, making sure every move counts.