SAP S/4HANA Migration Methodology for Cost Reduction and Compliance

Auritas, in collaboration with SAP, has developed the AMPD methodology—a best-in-class approach to system migration. As companies embark on their journey to SAP S/4HANA, this framework is essential to ensure a successful and smooth transition.

By focusing on reducing both risks and costs, the AMPD methodology offers a structured approach that guides enterprises through each phase of S/4HANA adoption. This involves thorough planning and preparation, meticulous data management, rigorous performance testing, and the strategic decommissioning of old systems.

Let’s explore the four steps of AMPD for a smooth SAP S/4 migration:

1. Archive

Data archiving is the first step in the methodology. It helps reduce storage costs and achieve a lean data environment during the transition. This helps with cost savings not only during the migration process but also when operating on S/4HANA. By archiving data, organizations can maintain access to valuable historical insights crucial for decision-making and strategic planning.

Data ASSIST by Auritas is an automated data archiving and scheduling tool that provides insights on what data to archive, schedules archiving activities, and offers a dashboard for real-time monitoring.

Additionally, retention management within this process addresses the need to retain data for operational, legal, or historical purposes while minimizing risks and costs associated with unnecessary data storage.

2. Migration

Migration, the core of the AMPD methodology, involves transitioning from one system to another. Utilizing advanced migration tools, organizations gain comprehensive insights into their data initiatives. These tools feature dashboards that track every aspect of the project, including timelines, data quality scores, workflows, and outcomes. This level of transparency ensures a structured and controlled migration process.

There are multiple approaches to system migration, each with its own benefits and challenges. Companies should evaluate each option and compare them to their goals for the transition to find the best approach for them:

• Greenfield Implementation: It involves implementing SAP S/4HANA from scratch without bringing over any historical data or configurations.
• System Conversion: Also known as brownfield conversion, this approach converts an existing SAP ERP system to SAP S/4HANA.
• Landscape Transformation: It involves consolidating multiple SAP systems into a single SAP S/4HANA system.
• Hybrid Approach: Some organizations may choose a combination of greenfield and brownfield approaches, depending on their business needs.

To learn more about the different approaches, download Auritas free e-book: The Ultimate SAP S/4HANA Pre-Migration Guide.

3. Performance Testing

Automated performance testing is an essential component as organizations move from one environment to the next. By thoroughly testing system performance in the new environment, organizations can ensure that the system is efficient and productive, significantly reducing risks and cutting costs. Performance testing ensures that the new system meets the required performance benchmarks, facilitating a smooth transition with uninterrupted business operations.

4. Decommissioning

As organizations move to SAP S/4HANA, one crucial aspect is planning for the legacy systems left. These are the outdated software, hardware, or infrastructure that no longer serves its purpose effectively. Decommissioning streamlines operations by phasing out old tech, consolidating data, and dismantling data silos.

Auritas’ decommissioning tool decreases the total cost of ownership of legacy hardware while maintaining access to essential data. Data GUARD by Auritas, running on BTP, provides a secure environment for legacy data and enables third-party analytic access, ensuring a single source of truth.

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The AMPD methodology addresses all critical aspects of S/4HANA migration—from data volume management and retention to performance testing and legacy system retirement. By following this methodology, organizations can achieve significant cost savings and near-zero downtime. The AMPD process is customizable, allowing it to be tailored to fit each organization’s unique needs and goals, ensuring a smooth and successful migration to SAP S/4HANA.

To learn more, watch Auritas data experts on how the AMPD methodology works and why it benefits enterprises of all sizes.