Migrating to SAP S/4HANA: 3 myths debunked

SAP S/4HANA simplifies and connects processes, provides live information and insights, and embeds your enterprise firmly into the digital world at large. In this way, it helps companies tackle some of today’s most pressing business challenges: huge amounts of unstructured data, unsupported decision-making, and increasingly complex processes and technologies.

So, why are companies so afraid to make the move? We’re debunking three major concerns: the stability and maturity of the platform, adoption of the new Fiori user interface, and the impact of migration on custom development.

1. Stability and maturity

Is SAP S/4HANA ERP suite just another fad in the quickly changing field of business solutions? The answer is clear: not by a long shot. SAP has been building on its underlying SAP HANA in-memory data platform since 2011, and thousands of projects have successfully been implemented. The solution’s first iterations started small, and over the years, new features have been added and tested to guarantee optimum performance. In short: SAP S/4HANA might be cutting-edge, but it is also a mature, proven solution rooted in expertise and experience.

2. From SAP GUI to SAP Fiori

With SAP S/4HANA, SAP has finally exchanged its bland general user interface for Fiori, which features a tiled design that resembles that of a smartphone. But what about users who are used to the ‘classic’ way of working via SAP GUI? Will you need to train them all overnight? No. Those who prefer to do so can still perform their daily tasks within their trusted environment. And while they won’t benefit from all the bells and whistles Fiori offers, this gives your business the opportunity for a gradual, less disruptive transition.

3. Custom development

No two ERP systems are the same, and that goes for SAP as well. Your current system is the result of endless tweaking and custom development. Will you have to redo all those years of hard work?

The answer is... no. There are ample tools available to adjust your custom code, known as z-code, so you won’t have to change anything in the first phase. Taking the step towards SAP S/4HANA can also be the perfect opportunity to get rid of the stuff you don’t really need, to refocus your ambitions, and to gear up for the inevitable future. What’s more, if you do revise your z-code, know that you won’t need to do everything all at once. SAP S/4HANA comes with a range of tools that help you assess the impact of migration on your business and processes.

Everything changes

In the end, taking the step to SAP S/4HANA is not a leap of faith, but a gradual process that requires careful consideration. By taking the first steps today, for example by recruiting an experienced partner or performing your first test, you can get a head start on your competition.

At delaware, we employ a 3-step approach that starts with technical, functional and custom development impact assessments and results in a clear roadmap that incorporates your particular goal and vision. Change is inevitable, and differentiating yourself from the pack will be increasingly difficult. SAP S/4HANA and delaware are here to help.

Is your company ready for the ‘big bang’, or would a phased approach be smoothest? Visit our SAP S/4HANA migration solution page and get in touch to discuss the best option for you.