Global Pharma Leader Upgrades to MDG Material for Master Data Excellence

The Challenge

A leading international pharmaceutical company embarked on a project to replace its existing Corporate Material Master Data Management tool with MDG Material. The previous system, based on a highly customized version of SAP MDM, was used across multiple platforms, including the corporate ERP system in over 30 countries. With SAP announcing the discontinuation of MDM, the project became time-sensitive.

The implementation required a sophisticated ‘MDG Hub’ architecture, which involved a significant effort for data replication. MDG-M successfully aligned legacy and new processes, ensuring seamless integration with the new systems. Additionally, a fully customized add-on was developed to support the maintenance of critical master data in downstream systems, which was not natively supported by MDG but essential for material master data usability. To address this, the concept of Post-Activation Workflow Steps was introduced, ensuring data integrity and compliance.

One of the primary challenges was the coexistence of Agile methodology with the stringent requirements of validated systems. The project team embraced this challenge, implementing an effective hybrid approach that yielded outstanding results.

Why did the client choose Fusion Consulting?

Fusion Consulting had a long-standing relationship with the client and had successfully supported multiple deployment and implementation projects. Understanding the client’s working culture and business needs allowed Fusion to build trust, leading to seamless collaboration and exceptional outcomes.

By leveraging best-in-class project management methodologies and technical expertise, Fusion delivered a solution that was both highly efficient and strategically aligned with the client’s operational goals.

The Solution

• Seamless Integration: Custom enhancements were developed to integrate effortlessly with the standard SAP MDG solution, ensuring data consistency and integrity.
• Reduced Maintenance Effort: The streamlined approach minimized the resources required for ongoing maintenance and updates.
• Compliance and Governance: All customizations were managed in a structured, controlled manner to align with data governance and regulatory requirements.
• Risk Mitigation: The solution ensured data accuracy, reduced inconsistencies, and mitigated potential system failures.

Implementation Phase

The project focused on integrating multiple legacy systems with SAP MDG to serve as the single source of truth for master data. These legacy systems, while robust, lacked the flexibility and efficiency needed for modern business operations. The integration with SAP MDG streamlined data governance processes and enhanced overall productivity.

Business Results

Successfully integrating Agile methodology with the requirements of validated systems was a major challenge, but the project team fully embraced and conquered it, delivering impressive results.

Key achievements included:

• Efficient maintenance and governance of over 100,000 materials, ensuring data integrity and reliability.
• Implementation of robust governance frameworks and automation to enhance efficiency.
• Adoption of Agile methodology through multiple sprints from 2020 to 2021, improving responsiveness to change and accelerating value delivery.

Expert Insights

“Successfully integrating SAP MDG into a highly complex and regulated environment required both technical precision and strategic agility. By leveraging our deep expertise in data governance, we ensured a seamless transition while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.”— Alexander Kirscht, Data Management & Services Practice Lead

Through a combination of technical expertise, strategic project management, and close collaboration, Fusion Consulting successfully delivered a transformative solution, setting a benchmark for excellence in master data management.