The goal of implementing an ERP system in a company is to integrate business processes and, as a result, streamline operations. An increasing number of organizations are choosing to adopt SaaS solutions, mainly because they eliminate the need to invest in costly IT infrastructure. For global implementations, the rollout approach is applied, in which the central template is transferred to subsequent branches of the company. How does SAP Analytics Cloud support this process?
SAP S/4HANA rollout – what is it?
This term refers to transferring the SAP template, previously developed for the central unit, to local subsidiaries. Rollout projects require an analysis of local regulations and market requirements. The purpose of this analysis is to find a solution that balances the global standard with the needs of a specific market.
The next stage of rollout projects is adaptation, which involves configuring the system in terms of currency, language, and local requirements, as well as enriching the solution with the necessary functionalities. This is followed by data migration and testing to verify how the system performs. A successful SAP S/4HANA rollout requires close cooperation between local teams and central units.
SAP Analytics Cloud as the foundation of modern analytics
SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) is a tool for reporting, planning, and forecasting. It makes it possible to create financial plans and monitor key performance indicators. SAC allows data from various sources to be combined and enables flexible adjustment of computing power to match current needs.
Access to the wide range of functionalities offered by SAP Analytics Cloud helps accelerate business decisions and draw accurate conclusions. Like other SAP solutions, the tool is continuously developed. In 2024, a performance analysis module was introduced, enabling users to track individual widgets and pages. Planning was also enhanced by the option to import Excel files, perform unit conversions, and copy between models based on attributes.
SAP Analytics Cloud and SAP S/4HANA rollout
SAC plays an important role in SAP rollouts, providing reporting and planning capabilities as well as delivering information to system users. SAP Analytics Cloud ensures consistency of key performance indicators and provides access to real-time data. A rollout carried out in combination with SAC guarantees process standardization, and thanks to advanced analytics, increases the company’s chances of gaining a competitive advantage.
Using SAC makes the SAP S/4HANA rollout more effective. The tool is used to design global dashboard templates and KPIs that reflect the specifics of individual subsidiaries. It is important to remember that the best approach to implementing SAC and rolling out an ERP system is to follow proven practices.
Best practices for implementing SAC
To avoid disruptions when introducing new solutions, it is essential to define the project objectives and scope in advance. Equally important is choosing a trusted partner with experience in implementing SAP solutions. A detailed task list may also prove useful, covering such activities as training for the project team, IT staff, and end users, system integration with other applications, configuration, data migration, and testing.
Best practices for SAC implementation also include realistically estimating the time needed for each task and assigning responsibility to specific team members. This forms the basis for creating a schedule and helps avoid problems with resource availability.
To ensure the success of both the SAP S/4HANA rollout and the SAC implementation, it is also essential to focus on user competencies. Regular training in the new interface and analytical tools will make it easier for employees to use the solutions effectively and take full advantage of their potential.
In summary, combining proven implementation methods with the capabilities of SAC offers a promising path to digital transformation for companies planning a global SAP rollout.
