The hidden ROI of BTP: Why CFOs will love the clean core

The clean core approach is far more than just a theoretical idea - it marks a fundamental change in IT strategy. It enables companies to free themselves from the restrictions of excessive individual developments and build a future-proof, economically sustainable IT landscape.

But how can Clean Core and the SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) increase efficiency, reduce technical debt and drive innovation - and thus achieve a higher return on investment (ROI) in the long term?

Understanding clean core, increasing ROI

For a long time, ERP systems were highly individualized to meet specific business requirements - with the result that IT landscapes became increasingly complex, inflexible and cost-intensive. The clean-core approach challenges this traditional model and instead focuses on standardization, optimized governance and strategic expandability. A key role is played by BTP, a platform specifically designed for extensibility and seamless integration within the SAP ecosystem. With BTP, companies can expand their ERP functionalities in a targeted and structured manner - thanks to API-driven architectures that increase the agility of the system while maintaining the integrity of the core system. Our many years of experience at LeverX show that a hybrid model that combines SAP standards with targeted extensibility reduces the complexity of upgrades, minimizes operational disruptions and enables the smooth integration of innovations - without jeopardizing the stability of the system.

The CFO perspective

While IT teams are quick to recognize the technical benefits of the clean-core approach, the bigger challenge is often convincing CFOs and finance managers of the strategic benefits. The return on investment (ROI) is not limited to IT cost savings, but influences the entire operational framework of a company. A well thought-out clean core strategy forms the basis for long-term efficiency, scalability and innovation. A key advantage lies in the reduced total cost of ownership (TCO). Companies benefit from up to 50 percent less maintenance effort, as superfluous code and unnecessary individual developments are eliminated. Faster upgrade cycles ensure that the SAP system is always up to date, while cloud-enabled architectures reduce infrastructure costs by optimizing resources and avoiding redundancies.

Accelerating innovation cycles

Clean Core also promotes business agility. More frequent updates to the S/4 system accelerate innovation cycles, while automated processes reduce manual workflows and increase operational efficiency. The seamless integration of third-party applications also improves flexibility without jeopardizing system stability. The clean-core approach also brings significant benefits in the areas of compliance and risk management. Standardized governance frameworks, such as the SAP BTP Guidance Framework, ensure that all adaptations comply with SAP guidelines. Regular security updates minimize risks, while simplified audits and compliance processes reduce the regulatory burden.

BTP as a catalyst for innovation

SAP BTP combines standardization with extensibility and enables companies to extend S/4 Hana without jeopardizing the stability of the core. The targeted use of SAP BTP allows business processes to be harmonized - for example with the SAP Integration Suite, which seamlessly links various applications. AI-powered insights from SAP AI Core and AI Launchpad support intelligent decision-making, while the SAP Build Portfolio empowers business users with low-code/no-code tools. Complemented by a strategic data and analytics layer with SAP Datasphere and SAP Analytics Cloud, companies gain valuable insights and decision support.

LeverX supports companies across all industries in using on-stack extensions or deploying SAP BTP in a targeted manner to ensure a smooth transition to a modern ERP landscape. With our expertise, we help companies realize the full potential of the SAP ecosystem, align their digital transformation strategy for the long term while promoting resilience, agility and continuous innovation.

LeverX approach for Clean Core

The LeverX approach to clean-core implementation takes a strategic and methodical approach that integrates the SAP BTP Guidance Framework to ensure full alignment with SAP best practices. The framework is based on a balanced combination of structure and flexibility that enables companies to optimize their ERP landscapes without losing the necessary adaptability.

Prioritize Clean Core and BTP

The introduction of Clean Core and the use of BTP is not only an IT strategy, but also a financial decision that offers a measurable ROI. This approach enables faster implementation of innovations and helps to secure a competitive advantage by ensuring continuous access to the latest features and updates of S/4 Hana. Maintaining a standardized yet adaptable SAP system results in lower total cost of ownership, improved compliance and greater business agility.

Basis for further growth

For companies looking to maximize their SAP investment, Clean Core and BTP provide the foundation for long-term profitability and growth. As an integral part of the SAP Activate Methodology for Rise with SAP, Clean Core ensures a smooth transition to a modern, modular ERP landscape, while BTP improves development flexibility, integration and deployment effectiveness. By reducing technical debt, standardized governance and flexible extensibility via BTP, companies can make their ERP systems efficient, secure and future-proof.

In addition, Clean Core is not only a technological decision, but also a financial one: Lower total cost of ownership, higher scalability and improved compliance contribute to long-term return on investment (ROI). Companies that adopt this approach benefit from a more agile business strategy and secure a competitive advantage through continuous innovation and optimized system stability. This enables the transition to a modern, modular SAP landscape that not only meets today's business requirements, but also lays the foundation for future growth and profitability.

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