Prepare for S4
Author: DXC Technology
The last time SAP updated its foundational enterprise resource planning (ERP) environment — the 1992 introduction of a then-revolutionary R/3 — the world was a different place. SAP was not yet a market-dominating software company, and ERP was yet to become a ubiquitous force in manufacturing. Analytics was in its infancy. Cloud-based efficiencies were unheard of.
To survive and succeed in the omnichannel environment — where consumers now shop and purchase in-store, online and across multiple devices — companies must meet consumer expectations for more personalized and satisfying product experiences. At the same time, organizations must pursue leaner value chains, more effective business models, and cost and operational efficiencies.
S/4HANA will help consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies meet these needs. S/4HANA offers many improved capabilities including the ability to simulate financial close at any time, and take corrective action earlier, increase productivity, shorten the planning cycle and streamline sales order and purchase order entry.
SAP-oriented organizations must move to S/4HANA or face the inevitable challenges of higher maintenance expense and the eventual withdrawal of non-HANA maintenance support. Informed executives appreciate the enterprise-class nature of this transformation. Most also recognize the need for careful planning, expertise and a clear SAP-oriented roadmap.
Given the scope and complexity of any S/4HANA initiative and the mission-critical enterprise resources the system supports, forward-looking consumer industry executives recognize the unique challenges of this crucial deployment. CPG companies may wish to consider working with allies who have demonstrated experience in the consumer sector, SAP HANA and S/4HANA, and enterprise-class transformation projects.
DXC Technology has a unique heritage in the consumer sector. With its industry-leading platforms, partnerships and global scale, DXC Technology offers solutions designed to accelerate growth at the shelf. We also offer a full range of SAP solutions — including on-premises, cloud and as-a-service alternatives — and advice and road-mapping for SAP journeys.
Read the full paper to learn more about:
- Key variables to consider in the transition to S/4HANA
- Developing an effective roadmap
- The advantages of working with an experienced CPG transition partner