to SAP S/4HANA
Strategic Guide to Alternatives and Deployment Models.Transforming the 2027 challenge into a competitive opportunity.
The Strategic Imperative
Migration to SAP S/4HANA is not a simple technical upgrade; it's a redefinition of the operating model for the digital economy.
With SAP ECC support ending in 2027, organizations face a critical decision that will define their future agility. S/4HANA, with its in-memory database, enables real-time analytics and simplified processes.
Why now?
Waiting increases the risk of obsolescence and technical debt. Starting the diagnosis today allows planning for a smooth and strategic transition.
The 3 Main Strategies
Choosing the right path is the first major strategic decision.
Greenfield
New Implementation
"Build from scratch". Total process redesign to adopt the standard (Clean Core).
- ✓ Maximum Innovation
- ✓ Eliminates Technical Debt
- ⚠ Greater Change Management
Brownfield
System Conversion
"Renovate the house". Technical upgrade preserving configuration and historical data.
- ✓ Less Disruption
- ✓ Preserves History
- ⚠ Inherits Technical Debt
Hybrid (SDT)
Selective Transition
"Tailored remodeling". Combines clean system with selective data migration.
- ✓ Total Flexibility
- ✓ System Consolidation
- ⚠ High Complexity
Special Case: Shell Conversion
A powerful technique within the Hybrid approach. Consists of creating a copy of the ECC system ("shell") with all configuration and developments, but without data. This mold is converted to S/4HANA and then clean data is loaded. Combines preserving investment in customization with the advantage of starting with sanitized data.
Strategy Comparison
| Criteria | Greenfield | Brownfield | Hybrid / SDT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Objective | Radical Transformation | Continuity | Selective Modernization |
| Innovation | Maximum | Low/Medium | High (Selective) |
| Historical Data | Limited | Complete | Selective |
| Operational Risk | High (Redesign) | Medium (Technical) | Medium-High (Data) |
Deployment Models
Once the migration strategy is defined, where will your system live?
On-Premise
Total Control
Own infrastructure. Maximum sovereignty and customization. CAPEX model (Perpetual licenses).
For strict regulatory requirementsRISE with SAP
Private Cloud
The main path for existing customers. Tailored private cloud, OPEX model (Subscription). Management delegated to SAP.
Flexibility/Cloud BalanceGROW with SAP
Public Cloud
Ready-to-use SaaS. Maximum standardization, rapid deployment (4-8 weeks). Automatic continuous innovation.
For new customers / SMEs
The choice of model defines the speed of future innovation.
An Integrated Strategic Decision
There is no single answer. The best alternative aligns business objectives (Transformation vs. Continuity) with technical reality (Technical Debt) and financial model (CAPEX vs. OPEX).
Start Migration Diagnosis