saptutorials in Blog

SAP ECC to S/4HANA Data Migration: A Study Guide and Practical Blog for Implementation Consultants

Table of Contents

Toggle

Overview of Migration

Moving from SAP ECC to S/4HANA can be an important decision for any business, and particularly so for SAP implementation consultants. This blog can serve as both a reference guide and a practical manual, helping you to comprehend all of the tools, transition strategies, and technological requirements, as well as the steps needed for a smooth data migration.

We explore key concepts and tools, including Cockpit for Migration Cockpit (MC) and SAP Data Services (DS), and provide real-world applications that utilize SAPSOL’s insights into migration programs.

Core Concepts & Definitions

Before diving into migration details, understand these core terms:

SAP ECC vs SAP S/4HANA Overview

SAP ECC replaced by SAP S/4HANA, built on HANA for speedy operations.
Data Migration: New Version (Greenfield) for fresh installation with fresh data import, systems
Conversion (Brownfield) for upgrading existing configurations.
Landscape Transformation: Consolidating or migrating specific entities.
Migration Cockpit (MC): Embedded S/4 tool for loading data using templates.
Migration Object Modeler (MOM): Tool for editing MC templates.
SAP Data Services (DS): Full ETL tool for complex data scenarios.
The Software Update Manager (SUM) and Database Migration Option (DMO) are combined to facilitate system data conversion.
SAP Fiori offers an exciting user experience.

Key Topics for SAP Consultants

SAP Evolution: ECC → HANA → S/4HANA

ECC was designed for AnyDB.
The Business Suite on HANA is equivalent to ECC running on the HANA database, with no changes to the user experience (UX) or data model.
S/4HANA = complete redesign, simplified models, real-time analytics, and Fiori UX.

S/4HANA Editions

On-Premise: Offers a full functional scope, is customizable, and suits larger or regulated firms.
Cloud: Subscription-based, standard best practices, faster go-live.

Choose based on flexibility, budget, and IT landscape.

Transition Scenarios Explained

1. New Implementation

When: Migrating from legacy/non-SAP or outdated/customized ECC.
How: Use SAP MC or DS for initial load.
Benefits: Clean start, faster innovation adoption.
Example Tools: LTMC (Cockpit), LTMOM (Modeller)

2. System Conversion

When: Want to retain configuration/custom code.
How: Use SUM with DMO, adapt custom code with ATC.
Phases: Pre-Conversion (Sandbox, code checks), Conversion (SUM), Post (testing, fixes)

3. Landscape Transformation

When: Consolidating systems, centralizing finance.
How: SAP-led service; no DIY tooling.
Please note that SAP Value Assurance or consulting is required.

Tool Comparison: MC vs. DS

Feature	Migration Cockpit (MC)	SAP Data Services (DS)
Deployment	Built-in to S/4	Requires a separate install
Customization	Limited to predefined fields	High (ETL, cleansing, profiling)
Skill requirement	Functional can use	Technical/ETL expertise needed
Licensing	Included with S/4	Advanced features need a license.
Use case	Simple, clean loads	Complex, dirty data scenarios

SAPSOL used the Migration Cockpit (MC) and Migration Object Modeler (MOM) because they were operating on S/4HANA 1610 in an on-premises environment, which suited their new clean setup.

SAP Project: Real-World Insight

Approach: New Implementation
Tools Used: Migration Cockpit (LTMC) + Migration Object Modeller (LTMOM)
Why: Needed rapid adoption with minimal customization

Steps Taken:

Created sandbox
Identified migration objects
Used LTMC to upload templates
Handled dependencies
Simulated and executed import
Validated via SLG1 logs

Migration Cockpit: Step-by-Step Guide

Launch LTMC or use the direct URL
Create Migration Project
Select Migration Object (e.g., Vendor Master)
Download Excel Template (XML)
Extract Data from ECC (e.g., BNKA for Bank data)
Fill Template and Upload
Activate → Start Transfer
Map/Convert Values
Simulate Import and fix any errors
Execute Import
Review Logs (SLG1) and finish

Important: Check dependencies before loading (e.g., materials before BOMs).

Quick Quiz for Consultants

What is the difference between Business Suite on HANA and S/4HANA?
→ Suite on HANA changes DB only; S/4HANA revamps application and DB layers.
2 Innovations in S/4HANA?
→ Reduced data footprint, Fiori UX.
When to choose New Implementation?
→ Legacy systems, outdated ECC, desire to reengineer.
Why System Conversion?
→ To keep existing processes and go live faster.
Why does Landscape Transformation need SAP help?
→ No public toolset; requires complex logic.
Key benefit of MC?
→ Easy to use, embedded, no programming needed.
Use of MOM?
→ Modify migration objects in on-premise setups.
Pro/Con of DS vs MC?
→ DS = deep cleansing but needs setup and licenses.
What did SAPSOL choose?
→ New implementation using MC + MOM.
Why check object dependencies?
→ Prevent load errors due to missing prerequisite data.

Final Thoughts

As for SAP consultants, migrating from ECC to S/4HANA requires a thorough knowledge of system architecture, tools, and business goals. No matter if a new implementation with MC or a system conversion with SUM is being carried out, preparation and mastery of tools are of utmost importance in their successful execution.

You might also find the following articles interesting.

Next Read: Mastering Fiori Configuration: A Comprehensive Guide »

SAP data migration best practicesSAP migration downtime minimization strategiesSAP migration tools comparisonSAP requirementsSAP riseSAP training

saptutorials: We are a group of SAP Consultants who want to teach and make studying tough SAP topics easier by providing comprehensive and easy-to-understand learning resources.