One ERP system, but two databases

In an S/4 transformation phase, users must maintain both the old and new databases, but without having to use both at the same time. Nevertheless, the license fees have to be paid in parallel. SAP is aware of the problem and many satisfactory solutions have already been found in individual discussions over the past few months.

The problem primarily affects owners of IBM DB2 and Oracle databases who are building a Hana platform in parallel. Naturally, only one DB is productive at a time, but during the conversion, licenses must be paid for Oracle and Hana, for example. Market participants report that Microsoft is more generous and willing to negotiate with regard to the SQL Server database - after all, they do not want to scare away potential MS Azure customers.

E-3 Magazine approached SAP Chief Technology Officer Juergen Mueller 18 months ago about the lack of a comprehensive AnyDB conversion roadmap, but has yet to receive a satisfactory response.

However, many individual successes can be observed, so the existing SAP customer should definitely equip himself with licensing know-how and invite the SAP sales representative for a discussion. One ERP system and two database systems - that contradicts all IT logic. Perhaps Jürgen Müller will still find a way to a comprehensive AnyDB roadmap.