SAP S/4HANA preliminary study

A successful SAP S/4HANA implementation offers companies the opportunity to seamlessly integrate modern technologies such as IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and cloud-based solutions. While cloud technologies are becoming increasingly established, on-premises solutions remain relevant – but which approach is the right one?

The decision between a greenfield, brownfield, or hybrid approach is not just a matter of IT; it is a business decision that involves careful consideration of various factors. A thorough preliminary study will help you define the best strategy. Process governance, change management, and transparent communication are essential to ensure acceptance and efficiency right from the start. 

But what is the optimal migration path?

  • Dissolve legacy systems and integrate them seamlessly into SAP? 
  • Reorganize logistics processes (greenfield)? 
  • Secure well-established financial processes (brownfield)? 
  • A hybrid approach that preserves proven processes and optimizes new ones? 

 

The process of a preliminary study for an SAP S/4HANA transformation

Why is conducting an SAP S/4HANA preliminary study a good idea?

A well-founded preliminary study helps to assess integration capability, system landscape, and risks at an early stage. Many companies opt for a step-by-step transition, in which individual organizational units or process clusters are migrated in a targeted manner. The essential question is: "How do we implement the strategy – and with what means?" 

A structured preliminary study provides clarity regarding individual requirements and ensures a future-proof SAP S/4HANA transformation.

How does abat support customers in the S/4HANA preliminary study

abat provides individual consulting support as part of a preliminary project (extended discovery phase according to SAP Activate, to identify the individual building blocks.  

This is achieved by employing appropriate tools and methods, such as a value check or a system deep dive based on preconfigured state-of-the-art processes in the prototype system.

This approach enables you to substantiate your instincts. An SAP S/4HANA evaluation matrix is an effective tool for systematically recording the pros and cons of all stakeholders. In this environment, facts can be systematically compared and a reliable roadmap can be developed.

SAP S/4HANA implementation plan with phases from preliminary study to operation.

Fast transition to SAP S/4HANA with our SMARTsolution

The abat S/4HANA Conversion Accelerator facilitates a streamlined and cost-effective transition to SAP S/4HANA. A thorough review of your current SAP system will allow us to determine the necessary steps for the conversion. We will then create a detailed implementation plan.  

Obtain comprehensive information regarding the process, the resources necessary, and the costs associated with your S/4HANA transformation.

Fast transition to SAP S/4HANA with our SMARTsolution 

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With abat AG, we were able to develop our S/4 roadmap in a short time with a clear picture of the next necessary steps as well as the opportunities with S/4HANA - despite working remotely, across several international locations, during the pandemic.

Martin Schaub (Südzucker)

Your path to successful S/4HANA transformation

transformationCOMPASS

Use our free transformationCOMPASS to get some initial important pointers for your transformation project.

to the test

roadmap

Use suitable tools to find a strategic and timely optimization sequence for your processes. abat shows you the way.

to roadmap

preliminary study

Find your way to modern technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, and other new IT developments through a targeted preliminary study.

realization

Brownfield and greenfield compared. abat Accelerators help you find the right approach.

to realization

Our Success Stories

Fritz Winter

Publication: 09/2025
Manufacturing processes improved with SAP

The Fritz Winter Eisengießerei was facing the challenge of making its complicated manufacturing processes ready for the digital future. Together with abat, it replaced a non-SAP system and integrated it into SAP ERP. The result: clear inventories, better planning, and a solid foundation for the upcoming SAP S/4HANA migration. Learn how…

to the project

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HIL GmbH

Publication: 08/2025
SAP S/4HANA ensures secure maintenance for the German Armed Forces

When faced with growing challenges, bold steps are required. HIL took the plunge with S/4HANA, creating an IT landscape that combines efficiency, transparency, and security. Mobile solutions and modern processes make maintaining defense equipment faster and more reliable than ever. Find out how HIL optimized…

to the project

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PFERD

Publication: 08/2023
Effective communication is often the key to project success. As a family business with more than 200 years of tradition, the PFERD brand has made communication and trust an important part of its core values. This success story of an S/4HANA migration at the Mexican site describes the challenge and the successful cooperation between abat and PFERD during the project phase and…

to the project

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DESMA

Publication: 06/2023
Digitalization and automation for the footwear industry through S/4HANA transformation

​​​​​​​DESMA supports the shoe industry with innovative production solutions for Industry 4.0, highly automated machines, excellent know-how and comprehensive support. However, continuous innovation is only possible if the company optimizes its internal processes. The discontinuation of…

to the project

Athlete running up a flight of stairs, focus on running shoes and leg movement.

Salzgitter AG

Publication: 06/2023
Steel giant optimizes and automates raw material procurement by switching to S/4HANA

2018 startete der Salzgitter Konzern die Umstellung der kompletten ERP-Infrastruktur auf SAP S/4HANA. Im Zuge dieses konzernweiten Transformationsvorhabens sollten in einem eigenen Projekt die Warenwirtschaftsprozesse der Vormaterialbeschaffung aus einer Beteiligungsgesellschaft über alle…

to the project

Molten metal is poured into a container in a metal foundry, sparks fly.

Imperial Logistics

Publication: 07/2020
Integrated Warehouse and Transportation with SAP S/4HANA

Greenfield implementation of a logistics template in the chemical industry. Imperial Logistics is a pioneer in the use of embedded EWM and TM integration in S/4HANA on Release 1709.

to the project

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Our customers

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Yi

SAP Developer
China

What I find most attractive working at abat is the friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We are coworkers as well as friends. I can ask any question and always receive constructive feedback. Moreover, it is highly encouraged to try new things, which helps broaden the horizon for me and the company alike.

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Xu

SAP Consultant
China

I truly enjoy working at abat. The flexible working environment and professional colleagues have made my experience here exceptional. The culture of collaboration and willingness to offer help has allowed me to develop my skills in SAP. Overall, I feel grateful to be a part of such a supportive and dynamic team

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Henrik

Legal Representative
China

For me, abat means a combination of independent work and strong teamwork.

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Hao

General Manager
China

At abat, we believe in the magic of mutual trust, personal responsibility, and respectful cooperation rather than rigid rules and long coordination. This creates a dynamic and enjoyable work environment, that results in exceptional experiences for our customers. I am amazed by the wonder of this guiding principle.

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