As we shift towards a cloud-centric business model, SAP has developed the SAP Activate framework, a unified methodology to guide our customers through the transition to the cloud, specifically to SAP S/4HANA. This framework intends to create a seamless transition and transformation journey.
SAP Activate stands as the backbone of all tools recommended for successful cloud transformations, including but not limited to, SAP LeanIX and SAP Signavio. Further facilitating this transition, SAP Activate methodically feeds into our digital system, SAP Cloud Application Lifecycle Management (ALM).
The framework provides project managers and consultants with the tools and processes to implement SAP solutions within any organization. The framework consists of three pillars; SAP Best Practices, Guided Configurations enabled by SAP Central Business Configuration (CBC), and the SAP Activate Methodology that collectively minimize risks associated with such transitions while maximizing efficiency and future-proofing operations.
The framework can be used with all transition scenarios, which cover new implementations, system conversions, or landscape transformations. Currently, the framework is a key component in facilitating the transformation to SAP S/4HANA Cloud.
Applicable to various transition scenarios - whether it's new implementations, system conversions, or landscape transformations - SAP Activate equips businesses with a clear and strategic road map for their journey to the cloud. The framework is particularly vital in guiding businesses towards implementing SAP S/4HANA Cloud, providing not just tools and resources, but also partnering with them at every step along the way.
But it isn't just about migration; SAP Activate encourages businesses to rethink and reshape existing processes, using the potential of SAP S/4HANA to spur innovation, unlock new opportunities, and create new value propositions. In line with our commitment to provide comprehensive support, our framework encapsulates all responsibilities from customers, partners, and SAP within a unified cloud operational governance model. This collaboration promotes proactive management and ensures Customer Success on the RISE with SAP journey. In essence, with SAP Activate, we don't just welcome businesses to the cloud, but we guide them towards leveraging the cloud to its fullest potential.
Journey Overview and Key Milestones
The "RISE with SAP Methodology" framework delineates the SAP S/4HANA Cloud journey and the responsibilities of all involved parties, fostering collaboration among customers, partners, and SAP under a unified cloud operational governance model to proactively manage RISE with SAP success.
The SAP Activate methodology consists of the following phases:
Discover
Purpose: To help organizations understand the value proposition of SAP S/4HANA, create a high-level plan, and identify the business case.
Activities: Initial exploration, value determination, establishing a road map, and assessing readiness.
Prepare
Purpose: To set up the project foundation and prepare for the implementation.
Activities: Project planning, setting up the project team, defining governance, conducting onboarding sessions, and preparing the system landscape.
Explore
Purpose: To validate the solution requirements and scope, and to refine the system design.
Activities: Conducting fit-to-standard workshops, identifying gaps, refining the project scope, and configuring the baseline system.
Realize
Purpose: To configure, build, and test the solution based on the requirements identified during the Explore phase.
Activities: Iterative build and test cycles, configuring the system, performing data migration, conducting integration and user acceptance testing, and preparing for production.
Deploy
Purpose: To transfer the solution to the production environment and begin using it in a live setting.
Activities: Finalizing cutover plans, conducting end-user training, executing the cutover, going live, and transitioning to support.
Run
Purpose: To operate and continuously improve the live solution.
Activities: Monitoring the system, performing regular maintenance, implementing continuous improvement processes, and supporting the end-users. Each phase is crucial for ensuring a structured and successful deployment, minimizing risks, and maximizing value realization from the SAP solution.
Additional Resources
To explore SAP Activate in more depth, you can access the following resources: