S/4HANA Migration: Developing on SAP BTP Instead of On-Premise

Migrating to SAP S/4HANA is a significant move for any organization, offering a chance to revamp processes and embrace modern solutions. A pivotal decision during this transition is choosing between traditional on-premise developments and leveraging the SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP). Opting for BTP can lead to a more streamlined, efficient, and future-ready system.

Why Consider SAP BTP Over On-Premise?

Several global enterprises have already embraced SAP BTP to drive digital transformation and enhance operational efficiency. Companies like Unilever, Siemens, and Coca-Cola leverage SAP BTP to streamline their cloud-based integrations, improve scalability, and maintain a flexible IT infrastructure. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has adopted SAP BTP to support data-driven decision-making and innovation within its manufacturing processes. These industry leaders have recognized the strategic benefits of BTP, demonstrating its effectiveness in complex, multinational environments.

For more insights, visit:

• SAP and Unilever Case Study
• Siemens Digital Transformation with SAP BTP
• Mercedes-Benz and SAP Collaboration

Traditionally, custom developments and modifications were implemented directly within on-premise SAP systems. While this approach addressed immediate needs, it often resulted in complex system landscapes, making future upgrades and maintenance more challenging. SAP BTP offers a cloud-based alternative, providing a suite of tools and services designed for development, extension, and integration projects. By utilizing BTP, businesses can keep their core SAP systems closer to standard configurations, simplifying future upgrades and reducing system complexity.

When to Choose BTP Over On-Premise

Deciding between BTP and on-premise development depends on several factors:

• Integration Needs: If your project involves extensive integration with external partners or systems, BTP’s robust integration capabilities can be advantageous.
• Data Volume: For applications processing large volumes of data from on-premise systems, careful architectural planning is essential to ensure performance efficiency.
• Existing System Dependencies: If a new application heavily relies on existing on-premise functionalities, it might be more practical to develop within the on-premise environment.

Preparing for Development on SAP BTP

Successful development on SAP BTP requires careful planning and strategic execution. First, organizations should conduct an in-depth assessment of their architectural requirements to determine which BTP environment best suits their needs. Options such as Cloud Foundry, Kyma, or ABAP should be carefully considered based on the project’s complexity and the expertise of the development team.

Once the appropriate environment is selected, businesses need to define a structured subaccount strategy. This helps organize project stages, manage data efficiently, and ensure security compliance across different deployment environments. A well-planned subaccount structure plays a crucial role in maintaining an orderly and scalable BTP landscape.

Equally important is investing in training and upskilling development teams. SAP BTP offers a variety of technologies such as OData, SAPUI5, and Fiori Elements, which require specialized knowledge. Ensuring that teams are well-versed in these technologies will maximize the platform’s potential and enhance development efficiency.

Security should also be a top priority. Organizations must implement best practices for authentication and authorization, ensuring that all applications developed on BTP adhere to strict security protocols. Secure APIs, role-based access controls, and data encryption are critical components in safeguarding business applications and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to SAP S/4HANA presents an opportunity to modernize your IT landscape. By embracing SAP BTP for custom developments, businesses can maintain a clean core system, enhance flexibility, and position themselves for future growth. Strategic planning and investment in the right resources will ensure a successful migration and long-term benefits.