Whether the impact of S/4HANA is quite as seismic for users of SAP will remain to be seen, but the outlook is promising. For SAP users, in-memory tools like HANA have brought the promise of a step-change in data processing and analysis much closer to reality, and the potential for in-memory computing to go mainstream is great. So, will SAP S/4HANA build even further on that promise?
In our view, S/4HANA is positive. Further development of SAPs long-term strategy for HANA, cloud and mobile is ultimately good news for customers.It also strengthens SAPs message around efficiency alongside innovation. But for existing customers, the migration path to S/4HANA will be the most important thing.
S/4HANA will offer maximum choice to customers; being available in cloud, on-premise or hybrid deployments. The main driver behind this choice is to allow SAP users to be in control of their journey to cloud. This is something that we here at the SAP UG recognise as very important customers will need to understand both the business case and the potential disruption, before migrating to S/4HANA. With SAP extending maintenance for ECC 6.0 until 2025, there is time for users to plan their move and assess migration options. The User Group will also be working closely with SAP to ensure that our members have the information they need in order to make an informed decision.
