A brownfield migration, where an existing SAP system is directly converted to SAP S/4HANA, offers an organization the ability to build on existing structures, processes, and data. This approach reduces operational disruptions, making it a strategic choice for many companies seeking to modernize without a full system overhaul. However, maintaining operational continuity while implementing new features and optimizations requires a specific focus on stability—and that’s where key users become invaluable.
The Impactful Roles and Responsibilities of Key Users in a brownfield migration:
- Ensuring the Continuity of Existing Functionality: Key users act as the first line of defense in validating that essential processes continue to run smoothly post-migration. Their task is to ensure that configurations and customizations developed over the years remain effective in SAP S/4HANA. Thanks to their deep knowledge of current processes, they can quickly detect and troubleshoot any inconsistencies or issues that might arise in the transition, minimizing the risk of disruption.
- Testing New Functionalities for Seamless Integration: SAP S/4HANA introduces a variety of improvements and new features designed to elevate operational efficiency. Even if core processes remain unchanged, key users are responsible for rigorously testing these new functionalities to guarantee a seamless integration that enhances daily operations rather than complicates them.
- Overseeing Data Migration to Ensure Integrity and Accuracy The brownfield migration path involves transferring historical data into the new SAP environment, and ensuring the accuracy and consistency of this data is crucial. Key users monitor this process, identifying any potential quality issues and ensuring that information is correctly aligned. This oversight is critical to maintaining data integrity, which forms the foundation for informed decision-making and optimized processes in SAP S/4HANA.
- Leading Training Efforts to Empower End-Users: Even though the basic system structure is preserved in a brownfield migration, SAP S/4HANA’s new features and tools require end-users to develop new skills. Key users take the lead in preparing and conducting training sessions, focusing on how to make the most of SAP S/4HANA’s enhanced functionality. They play a pivotal role in empowering end-users to harness the full potential of the system.
Supporting Key Users to Maximize Migration Success
Given the crucial role they play, key users face an increased workload and heightened responsibilities during a migration project. While the brownfield approach reduces the training needs compared to other strategies, SAP S/4HANA’s many new capabilities require user upskilling to ensure a smooth transition. To relieve key users from this added pressure and unlock the full potential of SAP S/4HANA, organizations can take two impactful measures:
- Adopting a Digital Adoption Platform (DAP): A DAP provides interactive resources, step-by-step guidance, and real-time support right within the SAP S/4HANA interface. By giving users access to on-demand assistance, a DAP allows them to independently navigate new features without over-relying on key users for support. Additionally, key users can use the DAP to quickly create, manage, and update support content. This streamlines knowledge sharing and allows both legacy and new materials to coexist, facilitating a smoother transition by offering users the precise information they need, when they need it.
- Engaging External SAP Experts for Training and Support: There may be times during a migration when key users cannot manage all user training and support needs. Bringing in specialized trainers can alleviate the burden of user education, from crafting training materials to transferring expertise. When combined with a DAP, this approach offers a comprehensive support system, empowering users with the knowledge and skills they need to adapt quickly. Despite the conservative nature of a brownfield migration, change inevitably brings challenges. Overcoming resistance can be more effective when handled by an external change management team, allowing users to adopt SAP S/4HANA’s new features with confidence and efficiency.
Beyond Support: Fostering a Culture of Continuous Learning and Innovation
By implementing these two solutions, organizations do more than relieve the pressure on key users—they foster a cultural shift that views change as an opportunity for continuous learning and growth. With the right tools and support, key users and end-users alike are empowered to embrace SAP S/4HANA as a catalyst for improved efficiency and productivity, ultimately transforming the migration experience into a lasting success story for the organization.
