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What are the benefits of open source? SAP modernizations and migrations are complex; taking a different approach based on open-source principles can help you avoid several problems and stumbling blocks from the start.
Peter Körner, Red Hat
4 October 2023
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This text has been automatically translated from German to English.

Real-time visibility for all stakeholders, adaptability, and collaboration throughout a project lifecycle; these all form the foundation for an ecosystem toolchain for S/4 and Rise modernizations currently emerging in German-speaking countries.

Open source solutions and Linux are increasingly becoming the standard in most companies. This is also true for SAP modernization strategies on the way to intelligent, integrated enterprise. Apparently, not only are open source technologies particularly suitable for this purpose, but open source principles such as transparency, adaptability, and collaboration are also crucial for implementing highly complex projects at a rapid pace and with high scalability.

Linux distribution as an example


To illustrate, let us examine how a typical Linux distribution is created. It consists of thousands of different open source components in various degrees of maturity. Only by agreeing on different aspects, such as open interfaces, handover points, interoperating services, data sharing, the structured orchestration of all modules, comprehensive testing, and agile and automated go-live processes, can a stable and certified overall solution be created that meets even the highest requirements for productive use.

So how can these open source principles be used to achieve successful SAP modernization—especially in view of the similarly high level of complexity? The answer to the question lies on a higher level of complexity: namely, in an integrated ecosystem toolchain that also aims at improving sharing and collaboration. 

On the one hand, an end-to-end technology platform for all aspects of modernization on an open source basis provides the foundation for addressing topics such as process adaptations, change management, interfaces, API management, legacy code, proprietary developments, data lakes, historization, hybrid cloud scenarios, or non-SAP integration.

On the other hand, so many synergies result from this uniform technology foundation that business departments, IT departments, partner companies, and many other stakeholders who previously worked in complete isolation can now communicate and coordinate with each other. The central characteristic of an integrated ecosystem toolchain is thus the exchange of information, facts, and findings in a concrete modernization project. Staff can exchange analysis results and project parameters; everyone can access results and quick wins; and stakeholders can receive target platform specifications automatically. 

The toolchain already supports the transparency analysis of the SAP landscape, which has grown and is often highly customized. Today, modern analysis tools can provide relevant information in minutes instead of months. In addition, there is complete transparency for all parties involved regarding the project’s progress throughout the entire modernization process.

Open source quick wins


The integrated open source-based ecosystem toolchain around SAP is growing—and for good reason. After all, it can significantly simplify and accelerate SAP modernizations and migrations. SAP partners should not ignore this trend if they wish to remain at the forefront of innovation.

The integrated open source-based ecosystem toolchain around SAP is growing - and for good reason. After all, it can significantly simplify and accelerate SAP modernizations and migrations. SAP partners should not ignore this trend in order to remain at the forefront of innovation.

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Peter Körner, Red Hat

Peter Körner is Principal Business Development Manager Red Hat SAP Solutions at Red Hat


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Working on the SAP basis is crucial for successful S/4 conversion. 

This gives the Competence Center strategic importance for existing SAP customers. Regardless of the S/4 Hana operating model, topics such as Automation, Monitoring, Security, Application Lifecycle Management and Data Management the basis for S/4 operations.

For the second time, E3 magazine is organizing a summit for the SAP community in Salzburg to provide comprehensive information on all aspects of S/4 Hana groundwork.

Venue

More information will follow shortly.

Event date

Wednesday, May 21, and
Thursday, May 22, 2025

Early Bird Ticket

Available until Friday, January 24, 2025
EUR 390 excl. VAT

Regular ticket

EUR 590 excl. VAT

Venue

Hotel Hilton Heidelberg
Kurfürstenanlage 1
D-69115 Heidelberg

Event date

Wednesday, March 5, and
Thursday, March 6, 2025

Tickets

Regular ticket
EUR 590 excl. VAT
Early Bird Ticket

Available until December 24, 2024

EUR 390 excl. VAT
The event is organized by the E3 magazine of the publishing house B4Bmedia.net AG. The presentations will be accompanied by an exhibition of selected SAP partners. The ticket price includes attendance at all presentations of the Steampunk and BTP Summit 2025, a visit to the exhibition area, participation in the evening event and catering during the official program. The lecture program and the list of exhibitors and sponsors (SAP partners) will be published on this website in due course.