SAP and AWS help BBC save money and reduce complexity by moving to the cloud

SAP recently announced the continuation of its relationship with the BBC by transitioning IT systems to the cloud for finance, HR and procurement via RISE with SAP on Amazon Web Services.

The progression of the longstanding SAP and BBC partnership is part of the BBC’s continued digital transformation journey. The BBC aims to utilize RISE with SAP capabilities to simplify services while also inducing more cost-effective methods for the broadcaster to run its IT systems.

Previously, RISE with SAP was used to replace the BBC’s older model – which still used separate contracts for the use of data centers and software licenses, the use of which required annual maintenance via support fees for services. By reducing the complexity and effort required to maintain IT systems, the BBC hopes to internally realign to work towards more innovative experiences for its audience.

“By simplifying our IT services, we can focus on running our business and ensure we’re meeting the needs of our viewers and listeners,” said Peter O’Kane, CTO, BBC.

“We want to make sure we’re investing the most we can in services for audiences.”

Managing director of SAP UK and Ireland, Leila Romane, said that the progression of the partnership is an integral moment in the “BBC’s aim to streamline its business operations.”

“We are delighted to partner with the BBC and our solutions, backed by the security and availability of the AWS Cloud, means the BBC has the ideal foundation to deliver on its promise to serve all audiences,” Romane said.

Speaking from an AWS perspective, VP and managing director of EMEA, AWS, Tanuja Randery, was prepared and ready for another RISE with SAP integration. “We’re delighted that the BBC has chosen to move its critical SAP business systems to run on AWS,” Randery said.

“Our proven track record in delivering high-performance, secure, and scalable cloud services aligns perfectly with the BBC’s needs and enables them to improve performance, increase resilience and reliability, and accelerate their digital transformation journey with confidence.”

What does this mean for SAPinsiders?

SAP has expanded its partnership with the BBC by transitioning key IT systems to the cloud through RISE with SAP on Amazon Web Services (AWS), continuing the broadcaster’s digital transformation journey.

• Cloud Transition: RISE with SAP helps the BBC move finance, HR, and procurement operations to the cloud, replacing older, complex systems with a more streamlined approach.
• Cost and Complexity Reduction: The move reduces the maintenance effort for IT systems, allowing the BBC to focus on innovation and enhancing audience experiences.
• Strategic Partnership: SAP and AWS provide a secure, scalable foundation, enabling the BBC to improve performance, resilience, and accelerate its digital transformation goals.

This strategic shift marks a significant step in the BBC’s ongoing efforts to modernize its operations, positioning it for long-term success in an increasingly digital landscape.