German software giant SAP is facing significant challenges with its S/4HANA data migration and management processes. A recent survey conducted among senior decision-makers at SAP user organizations in the UK and Ireland revealed several key findings:
– A lack of comprehensive data strategies during the transition to the S/4HANA platform
– Fragmented responsibilities split between different departments
– Skill shortages leading to difficulties in accessing data
– Slow progress in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) due to data management issues
S/4HANA, SAP’s latest enterprise resource planning software, was introduced in 2015 to revolutionize applications using the in-memory HANA database, moving away from Oracle databases. However, the migration process for customers has been complex and lengthy, primarily due to data management challenges.
The survey highlighted that 77% of respondents found data management to be a significant challenge when transitioning to S/4HANA from SAP ECC 6.0. Moreover, only a small percentage (12%) reported having a comprehensive data strategy that covers their entire organization.
Chris Gorton, EMEA managing director at Syniti, emphasized the importance of a data-first approach, urging organizations to plan ahead and set clear goals for their data management projects. He noted that many companies still rely on outdated data practices that hinder their progress in today’s market.
The survey also revealed that responsibility for data strategy is often divided between IT, data analytics, and other departments within organizations. A majority of respondents expressed a lack of confidence in the quality and accessibility of their data, with concerns about data duplication, silos, and compliance.
Moving forward, organizations are advised to prioritize developing their data skills, enhancing data quality, and breaking down silos to improve decision-making processes. Addressing data management issues effectively is crucial for the successful adoption of AI technologies and achieving real-time decision-making capabilities.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by organizations transitioning to S/4HANA underscore the importance of strategic data management practices and skills development in the evolving digital landscape. By addressing these issues proactively, companies can harness the full potential of their data and drive sustainable growth in the digital era.
