Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/07/sap_sql_server_shift/
Source: The Register
Title: SAP offers different way to move SQL Server-based software to the cloud
Feedly Summary: Just don’t call it an alternative to RISE with SAP
SAP has developed an alternative way of shifting customers’ legacy systems running on Microsoft’s SQL Server database to the cloud, a method that is outside of its preferred RISE with SAP program.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: SAP has unveiled a new cloud migration approach for customers using legacy systems on Microsoft’s SQL Server, offering flexibility outside the standard RISE with SAP program. The initiative is crucial for organizations aiming to transition to modern ERP systems while managing timelines and costs effectively.
Detailed Description:
SAP’s recent announcement presents an alternative pathway for customers to migrate their legacy enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to the cloud, specifically targeting organizations using Microsoft’s SQL Server database. This is significant as it reflects growing demand for flexible migration options amidst the challenges typically associated with ERP transitions.
Key Points:
– **New Migration Option**: SAP introduced the “SAP ERP, private edition, option for Microsoft SQL” to facilitate cloud transitions for existing SQL Server users. This is a departure from the company’s primary offering, the RISE with SAP program.
– **Legacy System Support**: With mainstream support for older SAP systems, like ECC, ending soon (2027), this change is timely. Gartner reported that only 37% of existing ECC customers had adopted S/4HANA by mid-2024, indicating resistance to upgrading.
– **Pace of Migration Projects**: The landscape of ERP migrations is known to be slow and costly. By offering a more gradual transition plan, SAP hopes to alleviate customer apprehensions.
– **Two-Stage Process**: The new offering outlines a two-phase approach for transitioning ERP systems to the cloud while ensuring customers eventually switch to the S/4HANA platform with SAP’s guidance.
– **Integration with Microsoft**: This option supports SAP’s historical approach to diverse database environments and encourages direct migration to the SAP Cloud infrastructure leveraging Microsoft Azure.
– **Database Versions**: Customers using Microsoft SQL Server 2019 or newer won’t face a mandatory database upgrade, simplifying the migration process further.
Overall, this move by SAP highlights the importance of flexible migration strategies in the cloud computing arena and addresses the pressing support timelines faced by organizations using legacy systems. Security and compliance professionals should take note of the implications of such migrations, particularly concerning data handling practices and regulatory adherence during the transition process.