The adoption of cloud-based system implementations is rapidly increasing among SAP-focused businesses aiming for agility and measurable ROI. A survey revealed that 86% of participating companies have either migrated their workloads to SAP S/4HANA or are in the process of evaluating and planning for deployment.
As the deadline for SAP’s mainstream support for legacy ECC software approaches in 2027, more businesses are expediting their SAP transformation journeys. However, migrating mission-critical data from an existing non-SAP or legacy SAP system to a new SAP system presents significant challenges, especially when data needs to be converted from one format to another.
SAPPivot, a trailblazer in guiding SAP-centric businesses through the intricate SAP transformation process, has recently dissected the SAP data migration process to provide clarity and expert guidance.
According to SAPPivot, data quality is paramount for a smooth, efficient, and swift migration that avoids the complications and compliance issues that inconsistent and incomplete data can introduce when transferred to a new location. Businesses embarking on a new SAP system are strongly advised to establish data quality objectives and allocate resources to achieve them.
The next critical step is data mapping, which involves defining rules for transforming data from the source context to the target context. SAPPivot emphasises the significance of data mapping, stating, “A common challenge is mapping complex data structures, particularly in cases where source and target fields are not identical. This requires a thorough understanding of the data being migrated and the ability to create mapping rules that are easy to understand and implement.” Furthermore, cleansing and enhancing master data before migration are essential for a successful transition process.
Data validation comes next, enabling businesses to ensure that inconsistent and inaccurate data is not integrated into the new system. Given the complexity of validating large and intricate data sets, SAPPivot recommends that enterprises establish validation processes and rules for a seamless migration process. Utilising automated validation tools or conducting manual checks by subject-matter experts can ensure a smooth data validation process, ensuring comprehensive data accuracy, early issue detection, and data loss prevention.
Additionally, SAPPivot underscores the importance of implementing best practices for businesses seeking a seamless transition. The article highlights meticulous planning, efficient identification of data sources, ensuring data completeness, eliminating duplicate and erroneous data, and ensuring data compliance as effective tactics for navigating a successful migration process.
The article also emphasises the need to leverage various tried-and-tested strategies when executing data migration. SAPPivot suggests that data migration assessments can help define the scope and complexity of the data involved, while strategic testing, data validation, risk management, and change management can streamline the transition effectively.
Adopting industry best practices and strategic approaches is crucial for a smooth migration, and the selection of a premium migration tool is equally essential. Options such as SAP Data Services, SAP LSMW, and third-party data migration tools offer distinct functionalities. The choice of a migration tool should align with the organisation’s business specifications and unique requirements, according to SAPPivot. A quality migration tool facilitates efficient data extraction, transfer, loading, standardisation, cleaning, and reconciliation, enabling businesses to achieve faster agility. However, for successful implementation, SAPPivot recommends that enterprises have a well-defined project plan and access to essential resources. Furthermore, all stakeholders involved need to align with the implementation goal.
SAPPivot, under the leadership of CEO Ruth Forrest, comprises a team of consultants, experts, and technologists who assist SAP-centric companies in navigating the complex and dynamic landscape of SAP migration. They provide practical strategies and expert guidance.
For more information about SAPPivot, please visit: http://sappivot.com.
