Strategic partner selection is crucial

An experienced SAP partner will support you throughout the entire project cycle - from initial planning to migration and ongoing operation. They not only have technical expertise, for example in dealing with SAP S/4 Hana or cloud integrations, but also understand your industry and its specific challenges.

This combination of technical expertise and industry knowledge is crucial in order to precisely implement individual requirements and incorporate best practices. Cultural fit is particularly important: only when values, working methods and communication harmonize can a trusting partnership be created that can successfully shape even complex transformations.

Criteria: Partner evaluation

The selection of a suitable partner should be structured. The following aspects are key: Technical expertise: Look for current SAP certifications (e.g. Rise with SAP, S/4) and demonstrable project experience in your industry. Experience with hyperscalers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure or Google Cloud as well as SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) is essential today.

Industry-specific expertise: Every company operates in its own regulatory environment - be it healthcare with HIPAA compliance, the public sector with budgetary law or the financial sector with IFRS and risk management. A partner who knows your specific requirements can make processes more efficient and minimize risks.

Project methodology: Transparent project structures, for example with SAP Activate, clear risk management and flexible resource planning are indicators of professionalism and stability.

Sustainability: The ability to integrate sustainability goals (ESG, Environmental, Social and Governance) through SAP solutions such as Sustainability Footprint Management is becoming increasingly important.

Partner types and their roles

Depending on the size and complexity of the project, different types of partners can be useful: Medium-sized consulting partners score points for agility and individual support. Enterprise partners bring extensive resources and standardization, but sometimes appear inflexible. In the dynamic world of digital transformation, the ability to innovate and flexibility are key success factors.

An ideal partner not only supports the technical foundations, but also brings in innovative approaches to develop future-proof solutions. They respond agilely to changing requirements and help to integrate new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) or big data in a meaningful way. Don't rely on your gut feeling, but establish a transparent evaluation method, such as a weighted decision matrix.

Selection with weighting matrix

A weighted decision matrix that reflects criteria such as technical skills (approx. 30 percent), industry experience (25 percent), costs (20 percent) and other factors creates clarity. You should also document expectations regarding communication, escalation channels and performance targets in a contractually binding manner. This will help you avoid wrong decisions and create a solid basis for cooperation.

Rise Assessment from PCG

Use PCG's structured Rise Assessment to analyze your individual starting situation and develop a tailor-made transformation roadmap. PCG accompanies you as a strong partner on your path to sustainable success with Rise.n