Speed and performance
SAP S/4 Hana's in-memory database architecture helps accelerates data processing and enables real-time data exchange. This means quicker response times, smoother user experiences, and the ability to analyze vast amounts of data in near-real-time. Most importantly, this shift to an in-memory database has far-reaching implications for performance and scalability, streamlining processes and reducing data redundancy.
User experience
S/4 Hana, once again, shines with its intuitive user interfaces. ECC's interface, while functional, can feel dated in comparison. S/4 Hana's modern design enhances usability and contributes to user adoption and efficiency.
Agility and flexibility
Here's where SAP S/4 Hana's agility comes into play. Its simplified data model and streamlined processes make adapting to changing business needs easier. Adding new functionalities or scaling up becomes more seamless, empowering your enterprise to stay nimble in a dynamic market.
Deployment options
SAP ECC's on-premises deployment required organizations to invest in hardware infrastructure and ongoing maintenance. On the other hand, SAP S/4 HANA expands deployment possibilities by offering cloud-based options. Cloud deployment can lead to lower upfront costs, easier scalability, and reduced IT overhead. Organizations can opt for a deployment model that aligns with their budget and strategic goals.
Integration and commerce connectivity
In the realm of integration, both SAP ECC and SAP S/4 HANA emphasize connectivity with other systems and applications. However, the architecture of SAP S/4 HANA facilitates seamless integration through its in-memory capabilities. Additionally, S/4 HANA's integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced analytics further extends its capabilities in a connected world.
However, when it comes to integrating SAP ECC and SAP S/4 HANA with e-commerce platforms, SaaS solutions, or cloud apps, such as PIM, CRM, WMS, POS, Marketing automation systems, and more, both ERPs lack the necessary API points or web services required for seamless integrations. Usually, building these missing B2B & B2C API points natively within both ERPs may require heavy development projects.
However, there is a shortcut designed to simply install these missing B2B and B2C API Points within SAP ECC and SAP S/4 HANA, enabling either of them for commerce connectivity, and it's called the Alumio API Plugin for SAP. Discover more about:
The Path Forward: Migrating to SAP S/4 HANA
The 2027 support deadline for SAP ECC is clearly a strategic move to encourage businesses to transition to SAP S/4 HANA and future-proof their operations with the latest advancements in ERP technology. Migrating to S/4 HANA involves careful planning and execution, but it promises to unlock unparalleled capabilities and position organizations for sustained growth.
While SAP ECC has long been a reliable workhorse, SAP S/4 HANA offers a leap forward in terms of performance, scalability, and user experience. As you embark on this crucial decision-making process, a thorough understanding of the differences outlined in this comparison will serve as a solid foundation for making an informed choice that aligns with your strategic vision.
