SAP Cloud: ready & on point - part 3
SAP extends ERP maintenance: What does this mean for your S/4HANA strategy?
The extension of ERP maintenance until 2033 gives companies more time to switch to S/4HANA. At the same time, SAP continues to focus on the cloud as the strategic future. This development has implications for companies' migration planning, business processes and IT strategy.

Impact of the new SAP strategy
SAP's focus on the Public Cloud Edition means that companies should check their existing systems and extensions for compatibility with the cloud. The financial and contractual framework conditions of "RISE with SAP" are also becoming increasingly important.
2. moving away from on-premise: strategic planning required
The strategic importance of the S/4HANA public cloud will continue to grow. Customers should therefore develop a clear strategy to plan their transformation in good time and avoid unnecessary costs for maintenance extensions.
2. Embedded Steampunk: ABAP in the cloud
With Embedded Steampunk (ABAP Cloud), SAP has created a way to implement ABAP developments directly in S/4HANA Cloud. This allows companies to use existing ABAP expertise to develop cloud-compatible extensions. However, there are clear restrictions in terms of access options and modifications.
3. impact on existing solutions and developments
Companies that continue to use on-premise or private cloud solutions should ensure that their applications remain compatible with SAP's future strategy in the long term. This applies in particular to existing add-ons and customised developments.
4. migration projects under new framework conditions
The extended maintenance affects the timetable for the switch to S/4 HANA. Companies may rethink their strategies, which in turn will influence the market for SAP service providers and partners. Early planning helps to avoid bottlenecks and delays.
Next steps
Although the extended migration deadline provides more room to manoeuvre, companies should actively use it to define their transformation strategy. Good planning is crucial in order to overcome financial and technological challenges.
Mercoline supports you in developing your individual roadmap for the switch to S/4HANA for existing in-house developments and add-ons. With our experience and solutions, we help you to find the right strategy and implement the transformation.
Want to learn more about getting started with SAP Cloud? You are welcome to read the previous parts of our blog series:
SAP extends ERP maintenance: what does this mean for your S/4HANA strategy? cloud: ready & on point
SAP Cloud: Ready & on Point Part 2