SAP S4 HANA Migration Strategy
The introduction of SAP S/4 HANA is associated with several major changes, which is why companies are advised to prepare thoroughly for the project.
Aspects to consider relate to the IT infrastructure, business processes, operational processes, and every SAP client’s individual SAP roadmap. Furthermore, it is advisable to examine whether and to what extent external service providers can support the project. A number of companies are already working on implementation strategies for SAP S/4 HANA.
Streamline your SAP Systems prior to the Migration
For companies that have already been using SAP systems for some time, it is advisable to “streamline” data stocks as well as to explore existing programs, reports, permissions and interfaces.
This applies particularly prior to a switch to SAP S/4 HANA. In this way, a “clean” system without any unnecessary data and tables is migrated or one containing only those programs, reports and interfaces to third-party systems that are needed.
Technology Transformation instead of a release change
The technological roadmap should not be considered a release change but rather a technological transformation. S/4 HANA results in considerably more infrastructure-related changes.
Rethink Business Processes- Include SAP Solution Manager
It should be examined what changes will result in the business processes and what qualifications the SAP business organization requires. The SAP Solution Manager should be considered. Furthermore, it is advisable to also include SAP operations as a hosting service/via a cloud data center as well as the purchasing of SAP Application Management Services in the considerations.
Do not plan a pure IT Project
The SAP S/4 HANA project should be set up as across-departmental and cross-business area initiative. Innovation cannot be installed via a software but rather is created through interdisciplinary cooperation and a willingness to change.
Ask for Innovation Potentials to be demonstrated
The innovation process around SAP S/4 HANA is without a doubt a challenging undertaking. It is above all accompanied by technological and organizational changes and that should not end when the S/4 HANA systems go live. However, the effort put in here will pay off many times over if companies receive business benefits as a result. Prerequisites are a willingness of customers and experts with methodological expertise. They need to have a thorough knowledge of the opportunities for process transformation offered by SAP S/4HANA.
