What is the difference between SAP ECC and SAP S/4HANA?

SAP ECC and SAP S/4HANA, two enterprise resource planning solutions (ERPs) developed by SAP (a global software company), are distinct. SAP S/4HANA is a major innovation and evolution in SAP’s ERP landscape. SAP ECC, a widely-used ERP system for many years, has undergone a number of changes. This discussion will explore the differences between SAP ECC vs. SAP S/4HANA. We’ll cover various aspects, such as architecture and database, user-experience, functionality and future outlook. SAP Course in Pune

1. Architecture:

SAP ECC

• SAP ECC was built using the traditional disk-based database architecture.
• The data is stored as rows in database tables.
• SAP ECC’s architecture can result in slower data retrieval and processing times, particularly when dealing with large datasets.

SAPS/4HANA:

• SAP S/4HANA uses SAP HANA, a proprietary database.
• In-memory architecture enables faster data processing because data is stored and processed in the main memory. This eliminates the need to use slower disk storage.
• This architecture improves performance by allowing real-time analysis and faster transaction processing.

2. Database:

SAP ECC

• SAP ECC runs on relational databases like Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server or IBM Db2.
• The data is stored using a row-based structure, which can lead to redundant data storage.

SAPS/4HANA:

• SAP S/4HANA is a columnar, in-memory database.
• Columnar storage allows more efficient data compression, faster data retrieval and improved performance.

3. User experience:

SAP ECC

• SAP ECC uses a traditional interface called the SAP GUI.
• A more complex interface with transactional features may characterize the user experience. SAP Classes in Pune

SAPS/4HANA:

• SAP S/4HANA features a new, intuitive and modern user interface. SAP Fiori.
• Fiori offers a more intuitive experience, thanks to its responsive design. It is accessible on all devices.
• It is important to improve the overall usability and simplify user interaction.

4. Functionality:

SAP ECC

• SAP ECC provides a comprehensive ERP system that includes modules such as Finance, Human Resources and Supply Chain.
• Although it has a robust set of features, real-time analytics and some processes are batch-oriented.

SAPS/4HANA:

• SAP S/4HANA extends the capabilities of ECC by introducing new features.
• It emphasizes real time analytics, better decision making through embedded analytics and a streamlined model of data.
• The core system is updated with new modules and features such as embedded analytics, machine learning and other advanced technologies.

5. Data Model

SAP ECC

• ECC relies on a data model that is complex and redundant at times due to the nature traditional relational databases.

SAPS/4HANA:

• S/4HANA offers a simplified model of data, removing redundancies. It also provides a single source for truth.
• The simplified data model improves performance, simplifies reporting and analytics.

6. Conversion and Migration:

SAP ECC

• Upgrades from older ECC versions to the latest ones involve a standard upgrade procedure.
• Migration to S/4HANA can be more difficult than ECC, since it requires both a technical migration of the database and conversion of custom codes to conform to S/4HANA’s data model.

SAPS/4HANA:

• Migration to S/4HANA is a complex process that includes the migration to SAP HANA and adoption of the new model.
• S/4HANA represents a significant transformation, not just an upgrade.

7. Future Outlook for

SAP ECC

• SAP announced that the mainstream support for SAP ECC would end in 2027. Extended support will be available until 2030. SAP Training in Pune
• Customers are encouraged by S/4HANA’s innovation to upgrade to S/4HANA and benefit from its ongoing support.

SAPS/4HANA:

• SAP S/4HANA has been positioned by SAP as the ERP suite that is future-ready.
• S/4HANA is expected to receive ongoing updates and innovation, which makes it a strategic choice for companies that want to keep up with SAP’s most recent advancements.

Conclusion:

While SAP ECC was a reliable ERP system for many years now, SAP S/4HANA is a transformational shift to a modern in-memory computing environment with enhanced functionality. It is more than a simple upgrade to S/4HANA. A well-planned migration plan and careful consideration of an organization’s needs are required. Businesses should consider the benefits of upgrading to S/4HANA. These include improved performance, real time analytics, and an ERP solution that is future-proof.

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