TOPIC: How Automation can accelerate and de-risk your path to S/4HANA, RISE
and a Clean SAP Core.
smartShift’s Role in SAP Transformation
In the rapidly evolving world of enterprise software, smartShift stands out for its pivotal role in automating custom code transformation for SAP clients.
At the Data Management Virtual Session hosted on 17th July 2024, Jonathan Leenstra | GlueData introduced Arndt Hoffmann | smartShift, highlighting the importance of automation in the S4 transformation journey and the strong partnership between Glue Data and smartShift.
This collaboration is key to providing comprehensive data and automation solutions for SAP clients.
Introduction of smartShift
Jono began by introducing Arndt, who emphasised smartShift’s expertise in automating custom code transformation for SAP clients.
This automation is essential for a smooth S4 transformation, showcasing the synergy between GlueData and smartShift in offering integrated data management and automation services.
Automation’s Role in SAP Transformation
Arndt’s presentation centered on the critical role of automation in the SAP transformation process.
He detailed how smartShift’s platform accelerates and de-risks projects by addressing the challenges of manual labour in code transformation.
This platform ensures superior quality and efficiency in modernising SAP systems, making it a cornerstone in the transformation journey.
The Clean Core Concept
A significant portion of Arndt’s discussion was dedicated to the concept of a clean SAP core.
He explained its importance in ensuring cloud compatibility and facilitating easy upgrades of SAP systems.
Arndt emphasized SAP’s extensibility concepts, which are designed to prevent customisations and extensions from hindering system upgrades.
Adhering to these concepts is crucial for maintaining a clean core, which supports the agility and innovation of SAP systems.
Custom Code: Challenges and Opportunities
Arndt addressed the challenges posed by legacy custom code in SAP systems, such as technical debt accumulated and upgrade difficulties.
However, he also highlighted opportunities for retaining essential customisations that support unique business needs and advocated for a balanced approach to standardisation and customisation, allowing businesses to maintain their competitive edge while modernising their systems.
smartShift’s Automation Platform
Arndt presented smartShift’s automation platform as a solution that accelerates and de-risks SAP transformation projects.
This platform automates code modernisation tasks, significantly reducing the time and risk associated with manual code fixes.
It ensures high-quality outcomes by systematically addressing performance, security and adherence to the latest ABAP standards, optimising the transformed code for S4HANA environments.
Application in Various Scenarios
Arndt clarified that smartShift’s services are versatile and colour-agnostic, applicable to both Greenfield and Brownfield SAP transformation projects.
This flexibility allows clients to modernise their SAP landscape while retaining essential custom processes.
The adaptability of smartShift’s automation platform ensures a seamless transition to modern SAP environments without losing critical functionality.
In conclusion, smartShift, in partnership with GlueData, plays a crucial role in the SAP transformation journey.
Their automation platform addresses the complexities of code transformation, ensuring a clean core and enabling businesses to retain their unique processes while moving towards a modern, cloud-compatible SAP system.
