Migrating to SAP S/4HANA: Key Things to Know

Why is migrating to SAP S/4HANA crucial now?

Migration to SAP S/4HANA essentially consists of moving both systems and data from SAP ECC to this new version of the software, which allows the systems and processes of the company to be updated and modernized. While SAP S/4HANA has been available since 2015, this migration has never been more urgent than it is today, and here's why.

Surviving in a digitalized market

As we mentioned earlier, if you do not have the latest version of SAP ERP software, you will not be able to take advantage of the latest technologies that have been incorporated. A key example is the SAP HANA data platform, which is capable of processing large volumes of data in real-time, unlike the traditional databases used by SAP ECC.

A few years ago, having an ERP was a competitive advantage in itself. However, with digitization, the adoption of ERPs has become standardized in enterprises, and today, only businesses that stay ahead of the curve with advanced solutions like SAP S/4HANA will remain competitive.

Not migrating to SAP S/4HANA in the current context of digital transformation represents a significant loss in terms of opportunities. By upgrading your system, your business will gain operational efficiency and be better positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities.

End of support for SAP ECC

SAP has announced that support for SAP ECC will end in 2027. This means that after that date, there will be no more updates or technical support, which could compromise the security and operability of the system, exposing companies to vulnerabilities. Data is one of the most valuable assets for businesses today, and it's essential to protect it with a system that receives updates and ongoing support. The only way to access this type of protection is by migrating to SAP S/4HANA.

In addition, it is important to start the migration as soon as possible. As the deadline approaches, more companies operating with SAP ECC will be forced to migrate, which could lead to increased demand for specialized consultants. This, in turn, could limit the options available and increase project costs.

Possibility of staggered migration

Given the complexity involved in a migration project to SAP S/4HANA, some SAP Partners, such as SEIDOR, have chosen to offer companies running SAP ECC a progressive solution that can be adapted to their particular needs.

With this phased approach to migrating to SAP S/4HANA, the company can begin to benefit from the advantages of the new version without having to transform all its processes or invest all its resources at once. Additionally, SAP offers the RISE with SAP solution to facilitate this migration.

Key aspects to consider in a migration to SAP S/4HANA

When embarking on a migration process to SAP S/4HANA, it is essential to consider three key factors to make an informed decision:

• SAP Partner experience: The partner in charge of performing the ERP migration must have demonstrated experience in similar projects and an approach aligned with your business needs.
• Process evaluation: Although it will be deepened together with the SAP partner during the subsequent phases, it is advisable to carry out a prior evaluation of the current processes to identify needs and define clear objectives.
• Training and adoption: The migration includes a phase of training and adoption of the new system. At SEIDOR, for example, we offer advice and support throughout this process, ensuring that your team makes the most of the system's functionalities.

Overall benefits of SAP S/4HANA

Although the list of benefits is extensive, here are the main advantages you will get when migrating to SAP S/4HANA compared to the previous version:

• Advanced real-time analytics: Accelerate decision-making and improve overall business operational efficiency.
• New automation capabilities: Optimization of key business processes.
• Improved user experience: A simpler and more intuitive interface thanks to SAP Fiori, which makes the system easier to use.
• Modern, optimized architecture: An in-memory database data model that allows large volumes of data to be analyzed in real-time.
• Access to a wide portfolio of SAP products: More than 600 new functionalities to improve business management.
• Cloud version: In addition to its on-premise version, SAP S/4HANA has a cloud version that offers greater flexibility and scalability. This reduces operational costs, simplifies infrastructure management, and allows information to be accessed from any device.

Migrating to SAP S/4HANA with SEIDOR: Migrate now, transform at your own pace

If you are running SAP ECC and are looking for a reliable SAP partner to carry out your migration project to SAP S/4HANA on budget and on time, we can help.

With our Migrate now and transform at your own pace approach and in close collaboration with our partner MIGNOW, you will save resources and avoid interruptions in your operations. This approach will allow you to upgrade your SAP system without haste and prepare your company for continuous innovation.

We over 150 migration projects globally, SEIDOR is leading S/4HANA migrations powered by AI.

For more information, please visit our migration section or click the contact button to resolve any questions you may have.