Moving to SAP S/4HANA under the RISE with SAP model is one of the most significant challenges facing modern enterprises today. Although the benefits of this transformation are undeniable, the conversion process itself requires meticulous planning and proper technological preparation. In this article, we discuss the key steps and aspects that must be considered to ensure a smooth and effective conversion process.
1. Understanding the RISE with SAP model
Before we move on to the technical details, it is worth understanding what the RISE with SAP model actually is. It is a comprehensive SAP offering that enables enterprises to move to S/4HANA in the cloud, minimising the risks and burdens associated with digital transformation. Under RISE with SAP, companies receive tools, services and support that help manage the conversion and optimise business processes during it.
Key elements of RISE with SAP:
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Business Process Intelligence (BPI) - Analysis and optimisation of business processes.
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SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) - An SAP platform whose services can support the client in integrating and extending SAP S/4HANA environments while preserving the so-called “clean core”.
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SAP S/4HANA, Private Cloud Edition - The central system handling business processes.
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Technical and operational support - Covers infrastructure management, security, and business continuity.
2. Assessing the current SAP environment
The first step in preparing for a conversion from an SAP ERP system to SAP S/4HANA is a thorough analysis and assessment of the current SAP environment. This process should identify any potential obstacles that could affect the conversion and assess which infrastructure elements require modernisation or adjustment.
System audit
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Assessing the state of the ERP system - Checking the version of the current SAP ECC system and its compatibility with S/4HANA.
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Assessing the database - Verifying whether the current database meets the requirements of SAP HANA.
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Reviewing custom extensions - Identifying all Z-programs, interfaces and extensions that may require adjustment or reimplementation.
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Reviewing performance and security - Analysing the performance of current servers, as well as assessing the level of data security.
Documentation
Comprehensive documentation of the current system is essential. It is worth paying attention to all custom modifications introduced over the years, as they may require rewriting or adjustment in the new system.
3. Planning data migration
Data migration is one of the most difficult and time-consuming elements of conversion. This process involves transferring data from the existing system to the new SAP S/4HANA platform.
Key aspects of data migration:
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Data cleansing - Before migration, it is worth carrying out comprehensive data cleansing to remove duplicates, outdated information and errors.
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Data mapping - Determining how existing data will fit into the new structures in S/4HANA.
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Migration testing - Carrying out trial migrations in a test environment to ensure that all data has been transferred correctly.
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Data validation - After migration, it is essential to carefully verify that the data has been correctly imported and meets expectations.
4. Preparing the BASIS team
The BASIS team plays a key role in the technical preparation and execution of the technical conversion, including under the RISE with SAP model. Their tasks include managing infrastructure, configuring systems, ensuring continuity during the conversion, and verifying system operation after conversion to SAP S/4HANA.
Key tasks of the BASIS team:
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Preparing the current infrastructure - Re-configuring servers and databases and ensuring adequate performance of the system in its source version.
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Security management - Supporting, configuring and verifying the security of the new system. In the RISE with SAP model, part of these activities is the responsibility of SAP.
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Technical support - Providing support to functional teams during the conversion and resolving technical issues. After the conversion under RISE with SAP is completed, part of these activities is the responsibility of SAP.
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Monitoring and optimisation - After conversion, the BASIS team must monitor the new system to ensure its optimal performance and stability, and in the RISE with SAP model, report issues to SAP technical support.
5. Optimising and modernising business processes
Conversion to S/4HANA is an excellent opportunity to review and optimise business processes within the organisation. Thanks to the tools available under RISE with SAP, it becomes possible to identify areas requiring improvement and implement best practices.
Business Process Intelligence (BPI)
BPI enables detailed analysis of business processes and identification of potential areas for optimisation. This tool enables:
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Process mapping - Visualisation and analysis of current business processes.
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Benchmarking - Comparing process efficiency against market best practices.
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Automation of processes - Implementing automation wherever possible, to reduce operational time and cost.
Implementing innovation
S/4HANA opens up new opportunities for organisations to implement innovation. Thanks to its modern platform, enterprises can leverage advanced features such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics to better adapt their operations to changing market conditions.
6. Training and change management
Every technological change requires training the relevant team. Implementing S/4HANA is not just a change of system, but also of processes, requiring proper preparation of employees.
Training for end users
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Training in the use of the new system - Employees must learn how to use the new features and interface in the SAP S/4HANA system.
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Training in new processes - The introduction of new business processes requires user training so that they can use them effectively.
Change management
Change management is essential to the success of the conversion. It is necessary to ensure internal communication so that all employees are aware of the upcoming changes and understand their significance. It is also worth identifying potential resistance and planning actions to help minimise it.
7. Testing and validation
Testing is an integral part of the SAP ERP to S/4HANA conversion process. Conducting comprehensive tests allows issues to be identified and resolved before the new production system is launched.
Types of tests:
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Functional testing - Checking that all functions and processes work as intended.
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Performance testing - Assessing system performance under conditions similar to real-world use.
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Integration testing - Verifying the correct operation of the system in conjunction with other applications and systems.
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Security testing - Carrying out security tests to ensure the system is resistant to potential threats.
8. Carrying out the conversion - final steps
Once all preparations are complete, the actual conversion can proceed. It is essential that the entire process is well planned and carried out according to the established schedule.
Stages of conversion:
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Preparing the production environment - Properly preparing the production environment before the actual conversion.
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Converting the SAP ERP system to SAP S/4HANA - including the conversion of business data.
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Launching the system - Transitioning the production environment to the new platform.
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Post-conversion support - Providing technical support and monitoring the system by the BASIS team or the SAP team in the first days after conversion to SAP S/4HANA.
Expert perspective: Why is it worth carrying out a conversion to S/4HANA?
In the context of the benefits of converting SAP ERP systems to S/4HANA under the RISE with SAP model, Jarosław Zdanowski, Partner at SNOK, emphasises that this transformation is not merely a step forward in technology, but also a strategic decision that can determine an enterprise’s future success.
“In today’s environment, dynamic market changes and growing competition require organisations to be flexible and able to adapt quickly to new conditions. Converting an SAP ERP system to SAP S/4HANA under the RISE with SAP model gives organisations the tools to make full use of the potential of digitalisation. Thanks to a modern architecture and advanced features such as real-time analysis and integration with innovative technologies, enterprises can significantly increase their operational efficiency, manage risk better and respond more quickly to market needs. This is no longer simply a matter of technology - it is an investment in the future that can determine competitive advantage for years to come,” says Jarosław Zdanowski.
His words underline that conversion to S/4HANA is not merely a new release of an ERP system, but a fundamental change that opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation for organisations. For companies wishing to remain competitive and prepared for future challenges, this transformation becomes essential.
A conscious approach to RISE with SAP - a perspective from SNOK’s CEO
In the context of SAP ERP to S/4HANA conversion under the RISE with SAP model, Jacek Bugajski, CEO of SNOK, emphasises the importance of a conscious approach to this transformation. He points out that the success of implementation depends not only on technology, but above all on understanding business needs and long-term strategy.
“By moving to the RISE with SAP model, our clients are making a key decision that will affect the future of their organisation. That is why it is so important for this process to be conscious and well considered. At SNOK, we take an individual approach to each client, conducting an in-depth analysis of their needs and close cooperation at every stage of the transformation. We ensure that this change is not only technologically flawless, but above all tailored to the specifics of our clients’ businesses. Our goal is for every company we work with to be able to make full use of the potential of S/4HANA, reaping its benefits for many years to come.”
This only underlines how important a holistic approach to conversion is - one that combines advanced technology with a deep understanding of the client’s business needs. At SNOK, the priority is for the transformation to be not only effective, but also secure and fully tailored to the unique requirements of each organisation.
SNOK’s role in the S/4HANA conversion process
In the process of conversion to S/4HANA under the RISE with SAP model, the appropriate support of experts who possess not only technical knowledge but also a deep understanding of the business is of key importance. SNOK, as an SAP partner, offers comprehensive support at every stage of the conversion. Thanks to extensive experience in SAP BASIS, SAP BTP and cybersecurity, SNOK ensures that the conversion process is carried out in line with best practices, minimising risk and maximising benefits for the enterprise.
Key areas of support offered by SNOK:
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Technological audit and pre-conversion analysis - SNOK conducts a detailed technical analysis of the current SAP environment, identifying potential challenges and preparing a conversion plan tailored to the client’s specific needs.
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Optimisation and integration - SNOK helps optimise business processes and integrate the new system with existing IT infrastructure, enabling full use of the capabilities offered by S/4HANA.
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Post-conversion support - After the conversion is completed, SNOK offers long-term technical support, monitoring system performance and helping with further business process optimisation, complementing the RISE with SAP offering.
Thanks to SNOK’s support, enterprises can be confident that the conversion of their SAP ERP system to S/4HANA will proceed smoothly, and that the new ERP system will deliver the expected benefits in the form of increased performance, better data management and opportunities for future business growth.
Summary
RISE with SAP offers a fast path to a cloud-based SAP environment, often simplifying the target SAP landscape while freeing up internal IT resources.
It should be borne in mind that this transition requires not only the involvement of business consultants, but also the SAP Basis team. Ensuring a smooth handover and effective cooperation with SAP is essential for the success of a RISE with SAP implementation.
Preparing for conversion to S/4HANA under the RISE with SAP model is a process requiring careful planning and execution. It is essential to conduct a detailed analysis of the current environment, plan data migration, prepare the BASIS team to work with SAP, and optimise business processes. With proper preparation and execution of each step, conversion to S/4HANA can bring significant benefits to a company, increasing its competitiveness in the market and enabling further growth towards digitalisation.
Changing an ERP system is not only a technological challenge, but also an organisational one. That is why it is so important to involve technical teams, business teams and end users alike, so that the transition to the new platform proceeds smoothly and without disruption. The future of business is S/4HANA - so it is worth ensuring that the conversion to the new system is not only effective, but also secure and well considered.