SAP SuccessFactors – an integrated solution for smooth data flow
SAP SuccessFactors is a functional, secure, and flexible solution that supports HR across multiple areas – from recruitment and onboarding, through employee development and training, to HR and administration. All within a single, consistent system that provides a complete view of the company’s situation.
Implementing an integrated platform instead of multiple dispersed tools is an investment in smooth data flow and process consistency. While an integrated HR system relies on a single source of information, the “best of breed” approach draws data from multiple places, which increases the risk of inconsistencies and errors. Other advantages of an integrated HR system include:
- the ability to create comprehensive, cross-domain reports and analyses,
- a centralized competency model,
- support for innovation,
- smooth data transfer enabled by built-in integrations,
- greater security of sensitive data.
It is also worth highlighting the cost aspect. By implementing a suite of solutions from a single ecosystem, an organization avoids additional expenses related to purchasing and integrating multiple tools, and the overall cost becomes easier to estimate.
Implementation of SAP SuccessFactors – proven methodology
To avoid pitfalls and maintain predictable outcomes, it is worth basing the project on a proven methodology such as SAP Activate. This approach ensures not only a transparent structure but also the flexibility to adapt each stage to the specifics of the organization. As a result, it enables consistent progression through the subsequent phases of transformation – from needs analysis, through planning and workshops, to system configuration and go-live.
How does it look in practice? The first phase is Discovery, which involves analyzing the organization’s needs and challenges in the context of system use. Next, in the Prepare phase, an action plan is developed and the functional scope of the new solutions is defined at a preliminary level. The following step is Explore – workshops with the client, during which detailed business requirements are identified. Based on these, SAP workbooks are created to help select the functionalities that best meet the company’s needs. The final phase of the project includes system configuration, integration with local applications, and preparing the organization for the launch of SAP SuccessFactors.
SAP SuccessFactors – preparation for multi-module implementation
A multi-module implementation requires proper preparation in areas such as the project team, testing, and the organization’s readiness for change. It is crucial to clearly define roles: who is part of the steering committee and who is responsible for testing? Some people will work on several modules simultaneously, so their availability must be carefully planned, for example by considering calendars and vacation schedules, to avoid bottlenecks.
In a multi-module implementation, iterative testing of each module is recommended, as it enables quick detection and correction of errors. Hicron supports organizations by providing recommendations on testing, defect management, and the appropriate tools.
A new implementation is also an opportunity to improve HR processes. Success in this area depends on team engagement and organizational openness to change. Training, transparent communication, and active support from leaders all play an important role.
Multi-module implementation – schedule the planning
Schedule planning should take into account the company’s stage of development and its business priorities. This makes it possible to determine the order of module implementation – from the most critical to the less urgent ones. It is worth aligning the project start with the organization’s business rhythm to minimize the risk of disruptions.
What else should be considered in the schedule?
- dependencies between existing IT solutions and new modules,
- subscription costs and their optimization,
- balanced workload of project teams to avoid chaos and overload.
The role of the implementation partner in a multi-module SAP SuccessFactors implementation is crucial. The partner is responsible not only for a thorough pre-implementation analysis and identification of the organization’s actual business needs, but also for managing the entire project and developing a well-thought-out implementation schedule. Their tasks include system module configuration, data migration and integration, as well as testing and end-user training. In addition, Hicron provides post-implementation support, offering strategic and development consulting.
