ECC to S/4HANA Migration : Charting the Course to a Smooth Migration
In the dynamic landscape of enterprise resource planning (ERP), SAP Business Suite 4 SAP HANA (S/4HANA) stands out as a beacon of innovation. Launched in 2015, it signifies SAP’s fourth-generation ERP business application, cementing its position as the leading vendor in the ERP applications market.
SAP S/4HANA, an intelligent and integrated ERP system, operates on SAP’s in-memory database, providing deployment flexibility across on-premises, cloud, or hybrid environments. Supplanting the legacy SAP ECC ERP, which depended on third-party databases, S/4HANA introduces a new technical architecture infused with automation and system intelligence. Addressing common issues in traditional ERP systems—such as manual processes, batch latency, and data sprawl—it brings about improved stability and reduced IT costs.
Unlocking Operational Excellence and Efficiency
The advantages of transitioning to SAP S/4HANA are compelling when compared to its predecessor, SAP ECC. Empowering organizations to refine business processes, the system introduces a novel data structure, a contemporary user experience through SAP Fiori, and integrated technologies leveraging the HANA platform—encompassing artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive solution for real time modelling, simulation, and forecasting.
This results in a significant acceleration of decision-making, where real-time support draws on both internal and external data sources, transforming processes that previously consumed minutes into mere seconds.
Beyond these significant advantages, the migration from ECC to S/4HANA becomes even more crucial, considering SAP’s plans to end support for older versions by 2027. Despite extended maintenance until 2030, customers under the latest three ECC EHP Packages will face a 2% premium for software support fees.
The migration to SAP S/4HANA is not a matter of “if” but “when,” and an analysis from Gartner reveals that approximately 33% of ECC customers had initiated their transition to S/4HANA by the end of 2Q23.
Key Benefits of SAP S/4HANA Migration:
Improved User Experience:
Redesigned interfaces like SAP UI5 Fiori and HTML5 enhance user experience, enabling access to SAP business processes on devices like iOS and Android.
Business Innovation:
S/4HANA paves the way for rapid evolution in future innovation technologies, with faster application speed and improved database accessibility.
Flexibility Extension:
Cloud technology allows S/4HANA to collaborate with various software vendors, extending its functionality and adaptability.
Increased Sustainability:
In-memory technology reduces storage needs, leading to cost savings in maintenance.
Accurate Forecasting:
Embedded artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies improve forecasting results.
Real-time Data Insights:
In-memory technology enables real-time data processing, facilitating faster analytics insights and decision-making.
Scalable Solutions:
S/4HANA adapts to growing business needs, providing scalable solutions in a highly competitive market.
Where to start?
In conclusion, embracing this transformation unlocks not only technological advancements but also organizational efficiency and a competitive edge in today’s dynamic business environment. To navigate this transformative journey successfully requires application leaders to promptly engage with business stakeholders, conducting a thorough analysis of migration options and identifying potential risks.
To facilitate your transition from ECC to S/4HANA, our experts can guide you through the deployment of the GROW with SAP solution, a comprehensive offering designed to facilitate the successful adoption of cloud ERP solutions for companies of all sizes. It includes ready-to-run cloud ERP solutions, adoption acceleration services, a collaborative community, and tailored learning opportunities.
Author
Roland Louis is the Vice President spearheading our SAP Practice. His mission ? To empower clients through seamless S/4HANA migration projects that will do justice to the potential of S/4HANA and that lives up to their ambitions. His bespoke strategies not only address immediate needs but also propel clients towards sustained growth. With a profound understanding of industry best practices, Roland excels in showcasing how Logient and SAP solutions actively support and accelerate the achievement of clients’ business objectives, solidifying his position as a trusted authority in the field.
Ready to explore migration options?
