Get ready to migrate – SAP is ending support for SAP ERP

In 2020, SAP extended its support deadline for its Enterprise Central Component (ECC) ERP from 2025 to 2027. If your organisation is currently using SAP ERP, it’s really important to put a migration plan in place right now.  SAP S/4HANA is SAP’s new ERP suite. You’ve got a few migration options, and we’ll look at those. However, let’s start first with the ‘exclusive’ stuff.  

Exclusively runs on the HANA database & Linux OS

Historically, SAP ERP worked with multiple databases, including Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, and SAP MaxDB.
SAP S/4HANA, SAP’s new ERP suite, runs exclusively on the SAP HANA database, which—in turn—runs exclusively on the Linux® operating system (OS). That means you will need to adopt Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) or SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) as the primary operating system for running S/4HANA.

What migration options do I have?

1. The Brownfield approach – This is essentially a ‘system conversion’ where you convert your existing ERP system to S/4HANA. You can deploy on-premise, in the SAP S/4HANA Cloud, private edition, in your own data centre or move to the cloud with a hyperscaler.
2. The Greenfield Approach – By starting again with a ‘new implementation’, you get an opportunity to correct overly-complex workflows, install on cloud or on premise, and tidy-up code.
3. Selective Data Transition – And lastly, you can opt for a selective data transition where you move some, but not all, configuration and data from your old ERP system(s) to a new SAP S/4HANA instance. There is also the option to merge multiple ERP solutions.

The option that is most suitable for you depends on your business aims. For example, if you want to minimise change, option 1 is probably right for you.

Migrating to SAP S/4HANA represents a significant investment in your organisation’s future. By proactively planning your migration, adhering to best practices and leveraging available SAP resources, you can make the transition smoother, minimise risks, and set your business up for success. Take note that SAP provide content and tools to support your planning and implementation. On top of that, Red Hat has Enterprise Linux for SAP Solutions to help firms create an intelligent, automated infrastructure that can prepare organizations for any potential future innovation within the SAP environment.

Would you like to explore how we can  support your SAP S/4HANA upgrade journey?

Eileen O’Mahony
General Manager, WM Promus