maximise sap roi by managing complexity
DESCRIPTION
Even well designed SAP systems are inevitably complex and over time they become more so. Customisation and work-arounds always bring added complexity. Unless understood and managed, complexity leads to business processes and system usage which are not aligned with business goals. Such systems are expensive, difficult to maintain and challenging to adapt. As a result they deliver sub-optimal value to the business.TRANSCRIPT
11.06.2012 Copyright West Trax International Ltd Page 1 of 4
Maximise SAP ROI By Managing Complexity
Understanding and Managing Complexity in SAP Systems
The complexity of SAP systems
Even well designed SAP systems are inevitably complex and over time they become more so. Customisation and work-arounds always bring added complexity. Unless understood and managed, complexity leads to business processes and system usage which are not aligned with business goals. Such systems are expensive, difficult to maintain and challenging to adapt. As a result they deliver sub-optimal value to the business. Managing Complexity
Complexity in SAP systems can't be avoided but it can be managed. The first step towards managing complexity is to measure and understand the degree of complexity involved. Measuring Complexity Metrics are required that clearly establish: - • Which software components are installed in the system? • Which are actually used to support the business and which are not? • Which standard SAP programmes are used by which business processes? • Which could be but are not used? • Where do opportunities exist to use the latest SAP standard functionality to modernise business processes and replace custom code?
11.06.2012 Copyright West Trax International Ltd Page 2 of 4
Maximise SAP ROI By Managing Complexity
Implications of Complexity
One of the goals for many SAP implementations is to maximise standardisation in order to minimise complexity. However, over time many systems are subjected to one or more technical upgrades. As a result they may be technically at ECC 6.0 but the processes and functions remain at R/3 or older. Old custom code often adds complexity and may cause serious performance problems. Large amounts of code may have become redundant, adding unnecessary maintenance overheads and further complexity. Due to a lack of transparency the valuable business relevant benefits offered by the latest level standard SAP functionality and enhanced business processes are often not well understood and are not exploited. Low levels of standardisation, high levels of customisation and outdated business processes all contribute to the complexity of managing SAP system effectiveness and efficiency. This is often compounded by the use of third party software, legacy programs and manual interventions. Inconsistent implementation and usage add to complexity
Inconsistent business processes and usage across SAP instances, business units, departments, functions and countries add additional complexity and associated inefficiencies. Organisations that have undertaken M+A activities are particularly prone to further levels of complexity due to these contributing factors.
Using the latest SAP standard functionality provides valuable opportunities to reduce complexity in single and multiple SAP environments by introducing modern, best practice business processes, minimising customisation and eliminating external software and manual activities.
11.06.2012 Copyright West Trax International Ltd Page 3 of 4
Maximise SAP ROI By Managing Complexity
Making Complexity Transparent
The West Trax KPI Scan® methodology rapidly provides the metrics and detailed analysis required to bring transparency to the challenges of managing complex SAP systems. KPI measurement, comparison and benchmarking services identify and quantify the potential to reduce complexity, resulting in increased ROI. Additional benefits include improved business processes, reduced costs, increased system quality, consistent usage and enhanced data integrity.
11.06.2012 Copyright West Trax International Ltd Page 4 of 4
Maximise SAP ROI By Managing Complexity
Transparency reveals opportunities to improve ROI
A neutral analysis of SAP system usage establishes how well systems are actually being used to support the achievement of enterprise business goals. Client business executives are provided with a detailed report expressing in business terms the As-Is situation and identifies opportunities to reduce system complexity and enhance ROI. Minimal disruption for maximum gain
The West Trax methodology is unique in that it rapidly provides the client with the results of an automated, off-site analysis with minimal workload and disruption. No software is installed; no interviews or user questionnaires are required. Minimise complexity and maximise business value
Migrating to a modernised, standardised SAP environment will eliminate unnecessary complexity and provide transparency and understanding to that which remains. Using the latest SAP standard functionality provides valuable opportunities to reduce complexity in single and multiple SAP environments by introducing modern, best practice business processes, minimising customisation and eliminating external software and manual activities. The resulting systems will be easier to maintain and update, support costs will be reduced and additional value will be contributed to the business. West Trax services can be particularly valuable when preparing business cases and project plans for SAP outsourcing, upgrade and consolidation projects and for tracking outcomes. Find Out More To find out more about how West Trax brings transparency to SAP and how it helps organisations maximise the ROI from their SAP investments please contact: - David Long Chief Executive West Trax Ltd.
Making SAP Complexity Transparent
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