SAP, a global leader in enterprise software, offers powerful options to support this digital shift. As SAP plans to discontinue support for ECC6 by 2027, many organizations are evaluating their options for transitioning to SAP’s latest cloud-based platform, S/4HANA. SAP offers two primary pathways to achieve this: RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud. Both are designed to meet different business requirements, and understanding their unique features is essential to make the right choice. 

This guide provides an in-depth comparison of RISE with SAP vs SAP S/4HANA Cloud, covering deployment options, customization possibilities, support structures, and total cost of ownership. Whether you’re planning a large-scale digital transformation or a straightforward ERP cloud adoption, this guide will help you determine the best solution for your business goals. 

What is RISE with SAP? 

Introduced in 2021, RISE with SAP is an all-encompassing business transformation solution designed to enable companies to transition smoothly to the cloud. Marketed as “business transformation as a service” (BaaS), RISE with SAP offers more than just ERP capabilities. It brings together a suite of tools and services aimed at improving business processes, enhancing collaboration, and simplifying cloud migration.  

What is SAP S/4HANA Cloud? 

SAP S/4HANA Cloud is an ERP solution specifically designed for cloud deployment, focusing on core business functionalities and real-time data processing through SAP’s in-memory HANA database. Unlike RISE with SAP, which includes a broad suite of transformation tools, SAP S/4HANA Cloud is a standalone ERP product. It’s available in both public and private cloud models, providing standard ERP features without the additional bundled components of RISE 

Comparing RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud 

Choosing between RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud depends on factors such as the desired scope of digital transformation, customization requirements, deployment options, and cost considerations. Below is a detailed comparison based on key parameters to help you decide which solution aligns best with your business needs. 

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RISE with SAP vs SAP S/4HANA Cloud – Which is Right for You? 

Both RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud provide significant value to organizations looking to harness the power of the cloud. RISE with SAP stands out as a complete package for businesses aiming for an extensive digital transformation journey. With its single-contract approach, it simplifies vendor management, offering tools for every aspect of digital transformation under one umbrella. However, it comes with higher initial costs and may require a more comprehensive deployment. 

SAP S/4HANA Cloud, on the other hand, is ideal for companies that prioritize core ERP functionality in a streamlined, cloud-based environment. Its focus on standard ERP processes allows for a faster and more predictable transition to the cloud. This makes it an attractive option for businesses that are mainly looking to modernize their ERP without extra transformation services. 

Ultimately, the choice between RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud depends on your organization’s unique needs, goals, and budget. For businesses seeking a guided, transformative journey, RISE with SAP offers unmatched value. Meanwhile, for companies aiming for a faster, ERP-only cloud migration, SAP S/4HANA Cloud provides a simplified, efficient path. 

Choosing the right SAP solution can be challenging, but KaarTech is here to help. As SAP-certified experts, we guide organizations through digital transformation, providing tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re considering RISE with SAP or SAP S/4HANA Cloud, our team of experienced consultants can help you make the best choice for your business. Contact us and start your SAP journey today with KaarTech!

 

 

FAQ’s 

1. What’s the main difference between RISE with SAP and SAP S/4HANA Cloud? 

RISE with SAP is a complete transformation package that includes ERP along with tools for process optimization, cloud migration, and more. SAP S/4HANA Cloud is focused solely on core ERP functions and is meant for businesses looking to move their ERP to the cloud without extra bundled services. 

2.  Is RISE with SAP more customizable than SAP S/4HANA Cloud? 

Yes, RISE with SAP offers some flexibility for customization, especially with its Private Cloud Edition. SAP S/4HANA Cloud is more standardized with limited options for customization, following a “Fit-to-Standard” approach. 

3.  Which option costs less, RISE with SAP or SAP S/4HANA Cloud? 

SAP S/4HANA Cloud generally has a lower and more predictable cost since it focuses only on ERP functionality. RISE with SAP includes additional tools and services, which can make it more expensive initially. 

4.  Who should choose SAP S/4HANA Cloud instead of RISE with SAP? 

SAP S/4HANA Cloud is ideal for businesses that need a quick and straightforward ERP cloud solution without the need for extra transformation tools. It’s best for companies focusing solely on core ERP functions with minimal customization needs