Implementing SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition can be complex.
You can avoid delays and overspending with Walldorf Consulting’s expert-led
Fit-to-Standard methodology and SAP Activate framework.

Mastering SAP Cloud ERP Implementation: Proven Methods to Stay on Track and Budget
Why Fit-to-Standard Matter
Understanding Fit-to-Standard
Streamline Operations
Reduce Complexity
Accelerate Deployment
How do you benefit from Fit-to-Standard approach?
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Accelerated and Risk-Minimized Transformation: The Fit-to-Standard approach provides a structured project framework combining SAP Activate and Walldorf Consulting's enhancements, ensuring faster implementations with reduced risk in timelines, budgets, and ROI.
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Sustainable and Upgrade-Friendly Processes: By adhering to standard processes with minimal customization, customers gain systems that are easier to upgrade and maintain, supporting long-term scalability and innovation.
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Empowerment of Teams and Adoption Success: The methodology focuses on change management and team enablement, fostering a cloud mindset and ensuring that business users are prepared to fully leverage the new solutions.
Embracing the Cloud Mindset: The Foundation for Success
Key Elements of the Cloud Mindset
- Move away from legacy processes and embrace fit-to-standard workflows based on SAP’s industry best practices.
- Understand that simplicity and efficiency are achieved by aligning with proven processes rather than extensive customizations.
- Be ready to evolve your business processes as SAP delivers quarterly innovations.
- Treat change as an opportunity for continuous improvement, not a disruption.
- Foster cross-departmental collaboration, involving stakeholders from finance, operations, IT, and leadership.
- Promote transparency to ensure everyone understands the goals and benefits of the cloud transformation.
- Invest in ongoing training and enablement for employees.
- Cultivate a culture where teams are encouraged to leverage new features and innovations.
The SAP Activate Framework: A Proven Path to Implementation
Phase 1: Discover
Activities:
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Define business challenges and desired outcomes.
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Understand how SAP’s Public Cloud can support digital transformation initiatives.
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Develop a clear understanding of the scope, functionalities, and solution capabilities, using the DDA (Digital Discovery Assessment).
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Phase 2: Prepare
Activities:
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Finalize the project team and establish governance.
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Conduct initial planning and create a detailed project roadmap.
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Set up the SAP S/4HANA system environment.
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Phase 3: Explore
Activities:
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Conduct workshops to map current processes to SAP’s fit-to-standard workflows.
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Identify gaps and document potential extensions or integrations.
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Confirm business requirements and finalize the scope.
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Phase 4: Realize
Activities:
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Configure the system based on fit-to-standard findings.
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Conduct unit testing and validate processes.
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Begin user training and prepare for user acceptance testing (UAT).
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Phase 5: Deploy
Activities:
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Conduct final testing and system validation.
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Train users and provide documentation.
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Launch the system and monitor performance.
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Phase 6: Run
Activities:
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Monitor system performance and address any issues.
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Stay informed about new features in quarterly updates.
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Continuously train users on new functionalities.
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Risks and Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
1. Resistance to Change
Challenge:
Solution:
- Effective Communication: Clearly explain the benefits of fit-to-standard processes.
- User Involvement: Engage employees early in the project through workshops and training.
- Ongoing Support: Provide post-implementation support to address concerns and reinforce adoption.
2. Data Migration Issues
Challenge:
Solution:
- Data Cleansing: Ensure data is clean and accurate before migration.
- Pilot Testing: Conduct multiple test runs to identify and resolve data migration issues early.
- Validation: Validate migrated data to ensure completeness and accuracy.
3. Integration Complexity
Challenge:
Solution:
- SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP): Use SAP BTP to create seamless integrations and extensions.
- Standard APIs: Leverage SAP’s extensive library of APIs for efficient integration.
- Expert Partners: Engage experienced partners like Walldorf Consulting to manage integrations.
4. Customization Limitations
Challenge:
Solution:
- Process Alignment: Focus on aligning business processes with SAP’s best practices.
- Extensions: Use SAP BTP to build extensions where necessary, without disrupting core ERP processes.
Conclusion: Prepare for Success with SAP Cloud ERP
Implementing SAP Cloud ERP, specifically S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition is a strategic move toward achieving agility, efficiency, and continuous innovation. By understanding the importance of fit-to-standard approach, embracing a cloud mindset, and following the SAP Activate methodology, your organization can significantly reduce risks and maximize the benefits of this powerful ERP solution.
Preparation is key — from aligning stakeholders and planning change management to addressing potential challenges like data migration and integration. With the right approach and mindset, your transition to SAP’s Cloud ERP can be smooth, efficient, and transformative.
However, the journey doesn’t have to be taken alone. Walldorf Consulting brings the expertise and experience needed to guide you through every phase of implementation. From initial planning to go-live and beyond, we help you avoid pitfalls and unlock the full potential of cloud ERP. Get in touch!
