SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA Migration: Why Act Now?

It’s official! SAP will end ECC support in 2027. SAP ECC has been a cornerstone for many industries and has undoubtedly had a good run. But now it’s time to embrace change!  Over the years, industries have evolved with the changing digital landscapes. The end of ECC support is yet another distinctive change compelling businesses to transition with time. But why are experts urging SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA Migration? What happens if companies still stick with ECC, and how can one plan a smooth SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA migration? Learn all this and more in this five-minute read!

Why Switch From SAP ECC? 

The 2027 deadline is fast approaching! Have you considered the aftermaths of sticking with SAP ECC? Continuing to use SAP ECC after the end of support would mean managing outdated technology. For one thing, you will be crushed under higher maintenance expenses. More importantly, your business will have to tackle significant security vulnerabilities. 

Can you afford to let your business fall behind while your competitors upgrade to cutting-edge, supercharged systems? 

Opting out of transitioning to SAP S/4HANA is basically giving up on the latest features and improved security measures. It’s like refusing a fully loaded lifeboat while your ship goes down. 

What Happens if I Choose to Stay With ECC?

To put it bluntly, it could very well take you down. It’s time to jump on the SAP S/4HANA lifeboat before you drown. Here are some sound reasons: 

1. Lack of Flexibility and Agility:

With ECC, flexibility becomes a challenge because upgrades are difficult. The interface between extensions and SAP code with ECC is lacking. ECC also relies on batch processing, which significantly slows down response times. This makes upgrades more time-consuming and complicated, directly affecting the business’s ability to scale and adapt. 

2. Impediments to Modernization: 

SAP ECC runs on different database systems than HANA. Though this provides a level of flexibility, it does not meet the standards of the HANA database. In addition, crucial technologies that run the modern world, like AI, machine learning, RPA, etc., are not available in ECC. The fact that ECC cannot be deployed on the cloud is reason enough to say it’s time to move out.

3. Complicated User Experience: 

User Experience is often underestimated, but to be true, it is the most important aspect of any technology. The traditional user interface that SAP ECC offers focuses on the business function. This served a purpose for a time but was complicated to a normal end user. However, the need of the hour is a more role-based and easy-to-use interface. A system that can be used by anyone.

What Is the Advantage of S/4HANA Over ECC? 

Transitioning from SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA is a true upgrade. It’s promising revolutionary progress for businesses with in-memory computing abilities, simplified data models, cloud enhancements, and refreshing user experiences. Here’s a detailed view of the distinctive advantages of SAP S/4HANA over ECC.

1. In-Memory Computing: SAP S/4HANA employs in-memory processing technology with SAP HANA. This significantly speeds up data processing and analysis. Thus offering instantaneous insights and decision-making abilities. Old-fashioned disk-based ECC databases may be sluggish and unresponsive.

2. Simplified data model: SAP S/4HANA’s simplified data model eliminates duplication and lessens the requirement for data reconciliation. 

3. Improved User Interface: S/4HANA’s SAP Fiori interface offers a contemporary, user-friendly experience. It allows users to work faster and more efficiently, increases application adoption, decreases errors, and saves training costs.

4. Sophisticated Analysis: S/4HANA has integrated, predictive, instantaneous analytics built into the system. On the other hand, ECC frequently necessitates additional tools to achieve these functions, resulting in fragmented and delayed insights.

5. Cloud Capabilities: S/4HANA has been created with cloud integration as a priority. This powers business operations with increased scalability and flexibility. In comparison, ECC has limitations, which will only increase with the support deadline.

6. Automation and AI Integration: S/4HANA facilitates the incorporation of advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and robotic process automation. This allows for more intelligent and effective business operations, while ECC’s abilities in these areas are restricted and frequently need significant customization.

7. Simplified Business Operations: SAP S/4HANA offers integrated end-to-end solutions. Think of it like running a well-oiled machine, where everything works together effortlessly. Not so with ECC, which is a disjointed and standalone approach.

Why Seize the Moment Today and Switch to SAP S/4HANA? 

Switching to SAP S/4HANA now can gain you numerous perks:

1. Cost Savings: Early migration spreads the investment, avoiding high costs associated with a rushed transition. It’s akin to booking tickets in advance to avoid exorbitant prices later. Moreover, as the 2027 deadline nears, migration service demand will surge, likely raising costs.

2. Avoid Last-Minute Complications: A planned migration minimizes disruption to business operations. Procrastination only sets the stage for slip-ups and system glitches. It’s like gearing up for a marathon: steady prep beats any last-minute sprint.

3. Maintain Business Efficiency: Early migration enables immediate benefits from SAP S/4HANA’s enhanced capabilities, preserving and enhancing operational efficiency. Why get left in the dust with old tech when you can glide ahead with the latest?

Read more: Navigating SAP S/4HANA Migration Risks For Transformation

How Can Fingent Simplify the SAP S/4HANA Migration Journey?

At Fingent, we have experts who can walk you through the changing SAP trends and help you discover migration approaches that best suit your business. Our consultants can prepare customized strategies just for you, ensuring minimal disruption during migration. We identify challenges and opportunities through comprehensive assessments, streamlining the migration process effectively. 

With precise data migration and integration, we ensure a smooth transition. We empower your business with enhanced capabilities. Our customization and optimization services tailor SAP S/4HANA to fit your specific needs. This maximizes efficiency and productivity. With comprehensive training and ongoing support, we equip your team. Trust Fingent to navigate your ECC to SAP S/4HANA journey seamlessly. Unlock new growth opportunities and success.

Collaborate with Fingent today for a smooth shift to SAP S/4HANA, opening up possibilities for growth. Avoid procrastination – keep ahead by choosing Fingent as your migration partner.