S/4HANA Migration Planning and Migration Approaches

In 2018, SAP announced a 2027 deadline for migrating to S/4HANA, the advanced version of SAP designed for faster data processing and improved decision-making. According to a PwC report, companies that have embarked on their S/4HANA journey show varying levels of progress:

• 25% are actively using it
• Another 25% are in the proof-of-concept phase
• 25% have developed a roadmap for their S/4 transformation

This blog will guide you on the optimal timing for migration planning and compare different approaches for migrating to SAP S/4HANA.

The Best Time to Begin Migration Planning

Regarding SAP S/4HANA migration planning, the old adage "the sooner, the better" holds. While optimal timing may vary depending on your organization's unique circumstances, starting planning well in advance is generally advisable. Here are a few key reasons why you need plenty of time:

Although SAP has extended maintenance for SAP ECC until 2027 and committed to S/4HANA maintenance until at least 2040, the 2027 deadline for migrating from SAP ECC to S/4HANA is fast approaching. Early preparation allows you to assess challenges, make necessary adjustments, and ensure a smooth transition.

Comparing Migration Approaches

Organizations have several migration approaches when migrating to SAP S/4HANA. Each approach has benefits and considerations, and the right choice depends on factors such as your organization's goals, existing systems, and budget constraints. Here are three common migration approaches:

Greenfield Approach: In a greenfield approach, organizations implement SAP S/4HANA from scratch without migrating any existing data or configurations from their legacy systems. While this approach offers the opportunity to start fresh and redesign processes, it may require more time and resources than other approaches.

Brownfield Approach: The brownfield approach involves migrating existing SAP ERP systems to SAP S/4HANA with minimal disruption to ongoing operations. This approach typically requires less time and effort than greenfield, allowing organizations to leverage their existing data and configurations. However, it may involve carrying over legacy inefficiencies or customizations.

Hybrid Approach: As the name suggests, the hybrid approach combines elements of both greenfield and brownfield approaches. Organizations can migrate certain modules or business units using a greenfield approach while retaining others through a brownfield migration. This approach offers flexibility and customization options but requires careful planning to ensure seamless integration between different systems.

Our best advice is to start planning your SAP S/4HANA migration early. This allows you time to compare different approaches and ensure the transition aligns with your business goals, supporting future growth and innovation.

Understanding how the migration will impact your current systems and the potential benefits, such as improved efficiency, faster analytics, and a better customer experience, is important. A well-planned migration can lead to cost savings and a more flexible IT infrastructure.

Starting the SAP S/4HANA migration process sooner rather than later is important for staying competitive in today's fast-paced business environment. By being proactive, you can ensure a smooth transition to SAP S/4HANA and fully leverage its advantages.

Are you ready for a seamless transition to SAP S/4HANA? SafePaaS can safeguard your valuable data and prioritize security throughout your migration process for effective risk reduction and a smooth transition aligned with industry standards.

Ensure your SAP S/4HANA migration remains secure by contacting  SafePaaS and Attentus today.