Preparing for the move to SAP HCM for S/4HANA: What happens during the S/4HANA Readiness Check?
The transformation in the SAP universe has reached a significant turning point and SAP S/4HANA is at the center of this change. Companies aiming for a smooth transition from SAP HCM ECC to “H4S4” should not overlook one crucial step – the S/4HANA Readiness Check. The universal S/4HANA Readiness Check also covers the HCM components.
You can also read our blog article “SAP HCM for S/4HANA is here – now what?“.
In this blog post, we take an in-depth look at the S/4HANA Readiness Check agenda to help organizations successfully navigate the path to S/4HANA readiness. From the definition of the Readiness Check to the key learnings, let’s explore this key aspect of S/4HANA preparation together.
- What is the S/4HANA Readiness Check?
- What preparatory measures are required for the S/4 HANA Readiness Check?
- How is the S/4 HANA Readiness Check carried out?
- Findings from the S/4 HANA Readiness Check
- Conclusion
What is the S/4HANA Readiness Check?
The S/4HANA Readiness Check is an essential tool for all SAP HCM customers who want to embark on the path to “H4S4”. It is a tool from SAP that helps companies to make the transition to S/4HANA easier. This check not only considers technical aspects such as sizing and coding, but also highlights process-related aspects, particularly in the context of simplifications.
- Preparation is everything: technical change and upgrade
The S/4HANA Readiness Check addresses two key aspects: the technical change and the technical upgrade. The technical change refers to the changeover itself, while the technical upgrade ensures that the existing systems meet the requirements of SAP HCM for S/4HANA. Both existing sizing parameters and the coding standard are examined. - Simplifications and functional upgrade at a glance
A central point of the check is the consideration of simplifications and the functional upgrade. Not only technical adjustments are considered here, but also the possibility of redesigning business processes. This aspect enables companies to benefit optimally from the innovative functions and possibilities of S/4HANA. - SAP Readiness Check – SAP for Me: Your guide to S/4HANA readiness
The S/4HANA Readiness Check is under the umbrella of “SAP Readiness Check – SAP for Me”. Here, companies can find a central point of contact for evaluating their systems with regard to the upcoming transformation. As there is no specific tool exclusively for H4S4, the HCM systems are an integral part of the overall S/4HANA Readiness Check. - Bringing light into the darkness: Illuminating the technical and process-related aspects
The S/4HANA Readiness Check sheds light on the technical and process-related aspects of the upcoming transformation. Not only is the technical infrastructure analyzed, but the processes are also subjected to a thorough review. This enables companies to realistically estimate the scope of the conversion project.
What preparatory measures are required for the S/4HANA Readiness Check?
The key to a smooth S/4HANA transformation lies in a thorough S/4HANA Readiness Check, which is available via SAP for Me. The first step for companies is the login, which is performed by the administrator of the customer’s S-User.
The authorizations are assigned by the administrator, with the starting point of the logon process being SAP note 2913617. This step creates the basis for the integration of the relevant notes in the development system.
How is the S/4HANA Readiness Check performed?
A central aspect of the Readiness Check is the RC_Collect_ANALYSIS_DATA report on the production system.
This is used to carry out a detailed analysis of your SAP system. Which data structures are available, which Z programs are used, what other coding adjustments have been made? Download the results generated from the report from the SAP system. This result is then uploaded to the SAP for Me page to initiate the analysis. Depending on the size of the system, this step can take several hours. The system analysis lays the foundation for sound decision-making and a successful migration to SAP HCM for S/4HANA.
Insights from the S/4HANA Readiness Check
The changeover to S/4HANA requires thorough preparation that takes into account the technical, process-related and functional aspects of your SAP system. Three key elements play a decisive role in the S/4HANA Readiness Check: sizing, coding and simplifications.
- Sizing: Involve basic support!
Sizing is a critical step to ensure that your new S/4HANA system meets your company’s requirements. It is essential to involve SAP Basis Support in this process. By working closely with the Basis experts, you can ensure optimal configuration and resource allocation for the new system. - Coding: Recognizing the issues and reports to be checked
Checking the existing code is a crucial aspect of the S/4HANA Readiness Check. By running the RC_Collect_ANALYSIS_DATA report on your production system, you can perform a detailed analysis of the issues and reports to be checked. This step enables you to identify necessary adjustments and optimizations in the coding and ensure that your system is ready for S/4HANA. - Simplifications: Involve HCM consulting
The introduction of “H4S4” entails simplified processes (simplifications) and some functionalities are no longer available under “H4S4”. It is therefore important to involve your SAP HCM consultancy. Identifying specific simplifications and adjustments in the HCM area ensures a smooth transition and the best possible use of the new functionalities.
A holistic approach that includes sizing, coding and simplifications lays the foundation for a successful S/4HANA Readiness Check. By involving various specialist departments and working with experts, you can ensure that your company is optimally prepared to take full advantage of S/4HANA.
Conclusion
The S/4HANA Readiness Check is not only a milestone on the road to S/4HANA migration, but also a crucial building block for successful project preparation. Here are some key points to consider:
- Can be carried out at any time:
The S/4HANA Readiness Check can be carried out at any time. It is advisable to carry out this process more than once in order to always be informed about the condition of your system for the changeover to (SAP HCM for) S/4HANA. An early check enables potential challenges to be identified and resolved in good time. - An important building block for preparation:
The readiness check is more than just a formal review. It is a crucial building block in comprehensively preparing your SAP system for the requirements of S/4HANA. By analyzing sizing, coding and simplifications, you get a clear overview of the status quo and can take targeted (preliminary) measures to ensure a smooth transformation. - Planning and embarking on the path to H4S4 together:
The S/4HANA Readiness Check not only provides insights into the current status of your system, but also the opportunity to plan and embark on the path to “H4S4” together with experts. By involving our experienced team, you not only receive expert advice, but also tailor-made solution outlines for your individual transformation process.
Contact us to plan the path to SAP HCM for S/4HANA together and ensure that your company is ready for the system transformation!