ECC to S4HANA Migration Guide

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ECC to S/4HANA Migration: Technical Guide

ECC to S/4HANA Migration: Technical Guide

1. Introduction
The migration from SAP ECC (ERP Central Component) to SAP
S/4HANA represents a major technical upgrade and strategic
transition for organizations. This document outlines the technical
steps, prerequisites, and best practices for a successful migration.

2. Pre-Migration Activities

2.1 Strategic Planning


- Define the project scope, objectives, and timelines.
- Identify stakeholders and form a migration team.
- Perform a system landscape assessment.

2.2 System Assessment


- Check the current ECC version.
- Evaluate database compatibility (e.g., migration to HANA database).
- Analyze existing customizations, add-ons, and Z-programs.

2.3 Readiness Check


- Run the SAP Readiness Check tool.
- Identify simplification items and relevant business impacts.
- Check hardware sizing requirements using SAP's Quick Sizer.
2.4 Data Cleansing
- Archive and delete obsolete data.
- Reconcile open items and master data.
- Address data inconsistencies.

2.5 System Upgrade Pre-checks


- Update ECC system to the latest Enhancement Pack (if applicable).
- Ensure kernel and Unicode compliance.
- Conduct security role and authorization reviews.

3. Migration Approaches

3.1 Greenfield Implementation


- A complete reimplementation of SAP S/4HANA.
- Best for organizations looking to redesign processes.

3.2 Brownfield Conversion


- A technical upgrade of an existing ECC system to S/4HANA.
- Retains current configurations, data, and processes.

3.3 Selective Data Transition


- Migrates specific data and processes to a new S/4HANA system.
- Ideal for phased transitions or hybrid landscapes.

4. Technical Steps for Migration


4.1 Preparation Phase
1. Infrastructure Setup:
- Provision HANA database and hardware.
- Install SAP HANA Studio.
2. Software Downloads:
- Obtain necessary software components and tools (e.g., SUM,
DMO).
3. Custom Code Analysis:
- Use SAP's ABAP Test Cockpit (ATC) or Code Inspector.
- Remediate incompatible custom code.

4.2 System Conversion Phase


1. Database Migration:
- Migrate to SAP HANA database using the Database Migration
Option (DMO) of SUM.
2. S/4HANA Installation:
- Install S/4HANA core components.
- Apply required simplification items.
3. Data Conversion:
- Convert financial data (New GL adoption, Asset Accounting).
- Transition logistics data to new data structures.

4.3 Post-Migration Activities


1. System Validation:
- Perform functional and technical testing.
- Validate business process execution.
2. Custom Code Adjustment:
- Address issues identified during testing.
- Optimize performance for HANA.
3. End-User Training:
- Train end-users on Fiori and new functionalities.
4. Go-Live Support:
- Monitor system performance.
- Address post-migration issues promptly.

5. Tools and Utilities


- SAP Readiness Check: Assesses system readiness for migration.
- SAP Maintenance Planner: Plans the system landscape and stack.
- Software Update Manager (SUM): Executes system upgrades and
migrations.
- Custom Code Migration Worklist (CCMW): Manages custom code
adjustments.

6. Best Practices
- Engage experienced SAP consultants.
- Maintain regular backups of critical data.
- Conduct thorough testing at each phase.
- Involve business users in validation activities.
- Plan for a rollback strategy in case of failure.

7. Common Challenges and Mitigation

7.1 Challenge: Custom Code Incompatibility


- Mitigation: Use SAP's tools for code analysis and remediation.
7.2 Challenge: Data Volume
- Mitigation: Perform data archiving and cleansing before migration.

7.3 Challenge: Downtime Management


- Mitigation: Plan migrations during off-peak hours and use downtime
optimization tools.

8. Conclusion
Migrating to SAP S/4HANA is a complex but rewarding process that
enhances business operations with improved performance, modern
functionalities, and better integration capabilities. By following the
structured approach outlined in this document, organizations can
minimize risks and ensure a smooth transition.

9. References
- SAP Help Portal: https://help.sap.com
- SAP Notes and KBAs relevant to migration.
- SAP Best Practices for S/4HANA.

10. Appendices
- Appendix A: List of Required SAP Notes.
- Appendix B: Sample Migration Project Plan.
- Appendix C: Checklist for Migration Activities.

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