SAP S/4HANA helps companies master the digital transformation. But how to transition and take the first steps for an SAP S/4HANA implementation? Our experience with many customers from various industries has led to several best practices. This blog post gives a first overview over the starting points.
First: take a look at the processes in place
Although technology in the digital age drives businesses forward, it is not only about technology, it is about processes. A bad process does not get better, just because it’s digitalized. A transition always involves analyzing the current situation and building a vision for the future, before starting with planning the migration.
Decision: Brownfield or Greenfield?
Transitioning to a new technology or platform like SAP S/4HANA always follows one of these two basic principles: Either companies migrate an existing system utilizing custom processes (Brownfield) or they start with an entirely new system, migrating data and processes (Greenfield). Both ways have their specific advantages and disadvantage. The best choice depends on the legacy systems in place and the quality of the current data structure.
It´s an ongoing evolution
Evolution means constant change and change needs change management. Changing a global system and process landscape involves all stakeholders within a business – and along the changing value chain. It is not just rolling out a template or a solution globally, it is a decision which processes fit to which region and subsidiary. The transition to SAP S/4HANA will transform a business but it has to be a journey well planned.
