Discover: In this phase, the focus is on identifying business requirements and evaluating suitable SAP solutions. A decision is made as to whether an on-premise or cloud solution is the optimal choice. Based on these findings, a roadmap is created that defines the scope of the project and the IT strategy. It is also checked whether a greenfield or brownfield approach is more suitable.
SAP Activate: The agile roadmap for successful SAP implementations
SAP Activate offers a framework that supports companies in the implementation of SAP S/4HANA and other SAP solutions. But what exactly is SAP Activate?
How does it differ from previous methods and what benefits does it bring? In this article, we explore these questions and highlight all the important aspects of SAP Activate.
What is SAP Activate?
SAP Activate is a comprehensive framework that was developed specifically for the introduction of SAP S/4HANA. However, it is also suitable for other SAP products such as SuccessFactors or the SAP Analytics Cloud and consists of three main components:
SAP Best Practices: Preconfigured, ready-to-use solutions that map proven business processes for various industries and scenarios. These best practices serve as a basis for efficiently designing business processes and shortening implementation times.
Accelerator: Tools and instructions that help companies to customize and configure their SAP solutions more quickly and easily. This includes checklists, templates and other tools that make the implementation process easier.
Implementation methodology (Methodology): An agile methodology that combines iterative elements and a clear structure.
The previous ASAP (Accelerated SAP) methodology was mainly designed for on-premise implementations and followed a linear, waterfall-like approach. In contrast, SAP Activate combines both agile and traditional elements and is suitable for on-premise, cloud and hybrid implementations. By combining agile methods with traditional approaches, it enables a flexible and iterative implementation that can adapt to specific needs and changes over the course of the project.
What are the phases of the SAP Activate methodology?
The SAP Activate methodology consists of six clearly defined phases that support companies in implementing SAP solutions in an efficient and structured manner.
Prepare: This is where the detailed planning of the project takes place. The project team is put together, the required resources are organized and a time and activity plan is drawn up. Particular emphasis is placed on defining the scope of the project based on scope items and best practices.
Explore: This phase involves conducting fit-to-standard workshops in which the business requirements are compared with SAP best practices. Possible adaptation requirements are identified and documented in a product backlog. Agile methods such as Scrum are used to iteratively define and further develop requirements. The design for these requirements is developed together with the customer.
Realize: The Realize phase is dedicated to the implementation and adaptation of the system. Processes are configured, developed individually if necessary, and comprehensively tested. Functional tests, integration tests and user acceptance tests (UAT) ensure that everything works smoothly. At the same time, training measures are prepared for the end users.
Deploy: In this phase, the system is transferred to productive operation. The end users are trained and the project team supports the go-live. The subsequent hypercare phase ensures that any initial problems are quickly resolved. Finally, the project is officially completed and handed over to operations.
Run (operation): The focus is now on the continuous monitoring, support and optimization of the system during operation. The product backlog serves as the basis for future updates and releases in order to further adapt the system to new requirements.
Integration with SAP Cloud ALM
A particular highlight of SAP Activate is the integration with SAP Cloud ALM. This connection improves efficiency and transparency throughout the entire implementation process by providing a central platform for planning, execution and monitoring.
Advantages of integration
SAP Cloud ALM enables centralized project management that covers the entire implementation cycle. Real-time monitoring ensures that progress can be tracked at all times, while automated quality assurance measures increase consistency and stability. In addition, the platform promotes collaboration within the project team through structured workflows and clear responsibilities.
Central functions
- Solution Documentation: This function provides a central repository for process diagrams, descriptions and specifications in order to bundle all important information in one place.
- Focused Build: With work packages and work items, this function supports agile methods such as Scrum. An integrated Test Step Designer also makes test management easier.
- Solution Readiness Dashboard: This dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of the project status and progress.
- Incident management: Once implemented, this tool supports the efficient management and resolution of incidents.
How do companies benefit from SAP Activate?
As a hybrid project methodology, SAP Activate combines agility, structure and best practices to enable companies to implement SAP solutions efficiently and successfully. Ready-made content and best practices significantly shorten the implementation time.
The clear structure of the six phases and the intuitive approach significantly reduce the complexity of projects. Whether in the cloud, on-premise or in hybrid environments - SAP Activate supports companies in driving their digital transformation forward in a strategic and targeted manner.
SAP Cloud ALM optimally complements SAP Activate and ensures greater efficiency and transparency in implementation projects. You can find out more about SAP Cloud ALM and how abat can help in our corresponding SMARTsolution.
FAQ's
1. What is SAP Activate?
SAP Activate is a framework that helps companies implement SAP S/4HANA and other SAP solutions. It combines agile methods, preconfigured best practices, and practical tools to ensure projects are implemented efficiently and flexibly.
2. Which phases does the SAP Activate methodology include?
3. How does SAP Activate differ from the previous ASAP methodology?
4. What are the benefits of integrating SAP Cloud ALM?
5. How do companies benefit from SAP Activate?