How to migrate to SAP S/4HANA
with Brownfield method
ERP migration, a corporate project
The migration of an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is a complex and strategic business project. It therefore deserves tailor-made support. Our SAP S/4 HANA experts will guide you through your ERP changeover, for example from SAPP ECC to S/4HANA Cloud or On-Premise.
S/4HANA, the latest-generation ERP from SAP
It represents a major step forward compared to previous versions of SAP ERP, such as SAP R/3 or ECC (ERP Central Component).
S/4HANA is based on SAP HANA in-memory database technology, which enables data to be stored and processed in memory, delivering improved performance and real-time processing capabilities. This technology also enables advanced analysis, real-time information and more informed decision-making.
The Brownfield approach to SAP migration
The Brownfield approach and the Greenfield approach are two distinct approaches to the migration of SAP systems.
The Brownfield approach is one of the most common approaches to migrating a SAP system. It consists of carrying out the migration while preserving the existing functionality of the ERP system.
Brownfield vs Greenfield migration
BROWNFIELD MIGRATION
The Brownfield approach consists of carrying out the migration by updating and enhancing the existing SAP system.
It aims to preserve the functionality, business processes and customizations already in place.
The main objective is to improve the existing ERP system by adopting a new SAP version, while minimizing disruption to users and preserving investments already made.
This approach is often used when the current ERP system still meets the company’s needs, but requires updating or enhancement.
GREENFIELD MIGRATION
The Greenfield approach involves starting from scratch by implementing a new SAP instance without migrating the functionality and data of the existing ERP system.
It offers the opportunity to rethink and redefine business processes, using industry best practice and the new functionality of the target SAP release.
This approach is often used when the current ERP system has major limitations, inefficiencies or no longer meets the needs of the business.
The choice between the Brownfield and Greenfield approaches depends on the specific needs of the business, the maturity of the existing ERP system and the migration’s goals. It is important to carefully weigh the advantages, disadvantages and risks associated with each approach before making a decision.
Therefore, the Brownfield approach to migrating from SAP ECC to S/4HANA is to upgrade and convert the existing ERP system to the new version of S/4HANA, while preserving existing functionality, data and customisations.
How can our SAP experts help you with your ERP migration ?
1. Define the goals
It is essential to clearly define the goals of the ERP migration project. These may include improving operational efficiency, optimizing business processes, reducing costs, introducing new functionalities, etc. The goals must be aligned with the company’s overall strategy.
2. Analyzing requirements and selecting the new ERP
Carry out an in-depth analysis of the business needs, gaps and current challenges of the existing ERP system. Based on this analysis, we identify potential ERP solutions that meet the company’s needs.
3. Project planning
We draw up a detailed plan for the ERP migration project, identifying the key stages, resources required, timescales, responsibilities and deliverables. This includes activities such as data migration, system development and customisation, user training, testing and change management.
4. Change management
ERP migration often entails significant changes to a company’s business processes and workflows. It is crucial to put in place a solid change management strategy to facilitate user acceptance and adoption of the new ERP. It is essential to communicate proactively and involve stakeholders in the project. At AGENTIL, we can handle the complete management of your project with our PMO & Governance services.
5. Data migration
Data migration is a critical and delicate stage of the project. We need to carry out an in-depth analysis of the existing data, and clean and prepare the data before migration. Then we need to define robust migration procedures and rigorously test the integrity of the data after migration.
6. Tests and validation
Our SAP experts then carry out exhaustive testing of the new ERP to ensure that it meets the functional requirements and needs of the business. Testing should include business process validation, verification of key functionality, system performance, security and compliance.
7. Follow-up and support
Finally, post-migration, we provide ongoing support to users and monitor the performance of the new ERP. In fact, as an SAP Partner Center of Expertise, we provide maintenance and support services for SAP ECC and S/4HANA solutions.
AGENTIL complies with strict quality and SAP compliance standards. These include incident management, change management and problem resolution procedures.
Meet AGENTIL
Our SAP consultants can help you with:
– SAP maintenance support
– customised support contracts
– managed services support with response time SLAs and adapted escalation processes.
We cover 24/7 services for incident management (escalation, etc.).
In addition, AGENTIL has deployed the ISA3402 standard for its internal control as a quality management tool for customer environments.
ERP migration is a major project that requires meticulous planning, rigorous management and close collaboration between the company’s various teams and stakeholders.
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