An Overview of SAP’s Systems, Who Runs Them, & What to Consider Before You Invest
Thinking about purchasing an SAP system?
For companies embarking on the SAP journey, understanding the various systems and identifying the right internal and external stakeholders is crucial. Let’s discuss the different SAP systems, the internal champions who typically manage them, and highlight external considerations for a successful SAP investment:
SAP Systems Overview:
SAP ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning):
SAP ERP is the core system that integrates various business processes, such as finance, human resources, and supply chain management. It provides a centralized platform for data and process management, ensuring efficiency and consistency across the organization.
SAP S/4HANA
As the next-generation ERP suite, S/4HANA leverages in-memory computing for real-time analytics and streamlined processes. It is designed to run on SAP's advanced HANA database and offers enhanced capabilities compared to traditional ERP systems.
SAP CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
Focused on customer interactions and relationships, SAP CRM helps companies manage sales, marketing, and service processes. It enables businesses to gain a 360-degree view of their customers and enhance customer satisfaction.
SAP SCM (Supply Chain Management)
SAP SCM optimizes supply chain processes, from planning and forecasting to logistics and order fulfillment. It ensures efficient coordination of resources, reducing costs and improving overall supply chain performance.
SAP BW/4HANA (Business Warehouse)
This system facilitates data warehousing and analytics, allowing organizations to gather, store, and analyze business data for informed decision-making. BW/4HANA is tailored for the HANA database, ensuring high-speed data processing.
Internal Stakeholders: Who Runs What?
SAP Basis Administrator
Responsible for the technical infrastructure of SAP systems, the Basis Administrator ensures the smooth operation of servers, databases, and system landscapes.
Manages the technical infrastructure of SAP systems, including servers, databases, and middleware.
Ensures the overall health, performance, and reliability of the SAP landscape.
Implements system upgrades, patches, and enhancements.
Monitors system security and addresses issues related to system architecture.
SAP Consultants
These professionals specialize in specific SAP modules (e.g., Finance, HR, Supply Chain) and work closely with business users to align SAP functionalities with organizational needs.
Specializes in a specific SAP module (e.g., Finance, HR, Supply Chain) and understands business processes within that domain.
Collaborates with business users to gather requirements and translate them into SAP solutions.
Configures and customizes SAP modules to align with organizational needs.
Provides expertise in the functional aspects of SAP implementation and ongoing support.
Learn more about SAP consultant recruiting
SAP Project Manager
Overseeing the implementation and ongoing management of SAP systems, the Project Manager ensures that projects are delivered on time and within budget, coordinating efforts across various teams.
Leads the planning, execution, and monitoring of SAP implementation projects.
Coordinates efforts among various teams, ensuring alignment with project timelines and budgets.
Manages project risks, issues, and scope changes.
Facilitates communication between project stakeholders and ensures project goals are achieved.
SAP Security Administrator:
Focused on safeguarding sensitive data and system access, the Security Administrator plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of SAP systems.
Manages user access and permissions within SAP systems to ensure data security.
Implements security policies and procedures to protect sensitive information.
Conducts regular audits to identify and mitigate security risks.
Collaborates with other stakeholders to address security-related incidents.
External Considerations: What to Think About When Investing in SAP:
Integration with Existing Systems: Assess how SAP systems will integrate with your current IT infrastructure to minimize disruptions and ensure a seamless transition.
Training and Change Management: Invest in comprehensive training programs to empower employees to adapt to the new SAP environment. Effective change management strategies are essential for a smooth transition.
Customization vs. Standardization: Evaluate the balance between customizing SAP systems to meet specific business requirements and leveraging standard functionalities to ensure long-term scalability and ease of maintenance.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider not only the initial implementation costs but also ongoing maintenance, licensing, and support costs to calculate the true TCO of your SAP investment.
Data Security and Compliance: Prioritize data security and compliance with industry regulations. SAP systems often handle sensitive information, and ensuring regulatory adherence is paramount.
Vendor Support and Community: Assess SAP's support services and community forums to gauge the availability of resources and expertise when troubleshooting issues or seeking enhancements.
Investing in SAP systems is a strategic decision that can significantly enhance an organization's efficiency and competitiveness. Understanding the diverse SAP landscape, identifying internal stakeholders, and carefully considering external factors are pivotal for a successful SAP journey. By doing so, companies can unlock the full potential of SAP systems and pave the way for a digitally transformed future.
