Book excerpt: The goal of every warehouse manager is to have an efficiently-run operation that provides clear visibility into warehouse activities, as well as the ability to quickly optimize stock, reduce inventory movements, and streamline the supply chain process. To achieve these goals you also need the right tools, and with extended warehouse functionalities in SAP ERP, you do. Throughout this book, you'll learn everything about core functionalities and how to use them in your company. Written in a practical and straightforward style, this is the one resource you need to really understand extended warehouse management with SAP ERP and how to customize it to meet your own business requirements. First, you'll develop a solid understanding of what SAP ERP EWM is and how it can provide a competitive advantage for your business. To this end, the author gives you an in-depth look at the various tools used for EWM, including Yard Management, Task and Resource Management, Cross Docking, and more. Then, learn the basic SAP ERP configuration steps, and find the concepts and techniques necessary for getting SAP ERP EWM to work for your needs.By making use of the insider tips provided throughout, you will be able to quickly assess and tackle your own customization issues without wasted trial and error. Plus, volumes of helpful additional resources are provided such as a full glossary to quickly find definitions of key terminology and a highly detailed index to help you easily search for key topics.