Describing the Clean Core Measurement Framework

Objective

After completing this lesson, you will be able to describe the Clean Core Measurement Framework and the RISE With SAP Methodology Dashboard

The Clean Core Measurement Framework

In the previous lesson we saw how RISE With SAP and clean core mutually support one another. In this the final lesson of the course we will dive deeper in how this support is achieved namely by taking advantage of the clean core measurement framework along with the RISE With SAP Methodology dashboard.

The Clean Core Measurement Framework

At various points in the course we have discussed how KPIs are important in validating that clean core principles are being adhered to. KPIs are pivotal in measuring adherence to clean core principles during project phases and operational activities. These indicators are derived from an in-depth analysis of system data and other relevant data points collected throughout the project's lifecycle

The clean core measurement framework is a strategic approach designed to assist customers in enhancing their SAP systems. KPIs are a pivotal part of the framework. When paired with another part of the framework, Governance & Maturity, a comprehensive process in which organizations can define actionable strategies and continuously monitor progress is created. This process results in a powerful feedback loop. Improvements in governance and maturity contribute to overall enhancements in KPIs and vice-versa,

Through these pillars, nuanced recommendations are provided regarding the necessary tools, efficient governance structures, and essential expertise required to uphold a clean core in SAP systems. Organizations start by determining their current clean core score across the various principles, which clarifies their existing position. A target score is then established, aligned with the organization's specific ambitions and strategic objectives. The score calculation is based on comprehensive evaluation criteria, organized into specific practices.

The assessment of governance and maturity is flexible, allowing it to be conducted at various stages—whether prior to, during, or after a transformation. Customers can selectively evaluate principles and the specific practices most critical to their operations. Integral to the RISE with SAP Methodology, these criteria are set to be incorporated into future Q-Gates, ensuring a streamlined and structured assessment process. SAP aims to automate and integrate many of the KPIs into the RISE with SAP Methodology dashboard (discussed next), thus providing a transparent and real-time view of adherence metrics, albeit recognizing that not all KPIs may be fully automated.

The framework not only encourages a holistic approach to system cleanliness but also furnishes organizations with strategic insight to attain their objectives effectively and sustainably.

Clean Core Measurement Framework: A Simple Analogy

To better comprehend the clean core Measurement Framework, consider the analogy of achieving optimal physical fitness. Just as one seeks to enhance their quality of life through guidelines in nutrition, exercise, and mental health—mirroring the governance and maturity aspects—so too must an organization strive for a 'clean core'.

  • Governance equates to ensuring balanced nutrition, consistent exercise routines, and mental well-being.

  • KPIs represent measurable outcomes such as improved cardiovascular fitness, reduced times for specific running distances, enhanced daily hydration levels, increased proportion of organic foods consumed, and extended minutes dedicated to meditation.

The RISE with SAP Methodology Dashboard

RISE With SAP Methodology Dashboard

Another important part of the clean core measurement framework which is the RISE with SAP Methodology dashboard (hosted on SAP Cloud ALM) supports organizations in their move towards a clean core. Specifically it provides a set of different views to monitor the aforementioned clean core KPIs thereby enabling organizations to govern and track operational aspects of the clean core approach.

Note

To learn more about SAP Cloud ALM check out the learning journey:

Implementing With SAP Cloud ALM

The dashboard offers a comprehensive set of capabilities to monitor system status, provide insights, and ensure alignment with SAP Best Practices such as:

  • An overview of system adherence and optimization opportunities for production or non-production SAP S/4HANA Cloud, aligned with SAP's clean core strategy.

  • Insights and data on clean core status hosted on SAP Cloud ALM, an essential tool in our integrated suite, optimized for daily updates and new functionalities.

  • Tools for managing system extensibility to minimize customizations and prepare for future upgrades, ensuring systems remain streamlined and ready for changes.

The dashboard is continuously enhanced with new persona-based views and regular updates, introducing additional capabilities for clean core dimensions and transformation accelerators. For up to date information on the latest updates to the dashboard organizations can refer to the Road Map Explorer.

Conclusion

We've covered a lot of ground in this course. From the "why" of clean core to the "how" and concluding with the clean core measurement framework which ensures the availability and visibility of APIs to ensure compliance with clean core principles and continuous best practices innovation.

The framework provides a way to measure your progress toward clean core. It's not just one number but a collection of metrics across several critical dimensions. The framework is designed to answer the question: "How far are we from a true clean core?"