Thomas Pasquale

IT architecture models

How can an IT architecture be rebuilt? What role do IT architecture models play? And which current trends are currently changing the view of IT architecture? You can find the answers here.

Quick start

Quick start

Basics of the IT architecture models

Basics of the IT architecture models

The requirements for IT architectures are constantly changing. This process of change is caused on the one hand by technological developments and on the other hand by a changed role of information technology (IT) in companies.

In the past, IT in companies was used in particular to ensure the smooth control of IT-supported business processes.

Increasingly, however, it now forms the basis for innovation. Today, companies can no longer manage to deal with the issue of IT architecture.

On this page you will find basic information about IT architectures.

In this article you will learn, among other things:

  • what is behind the term,
  • how IT architectures can be analyzed,
  • how the modelling looks like,
  • provide information on the profession of IT architect and
  • illuminate current IT architecture trends.

Meinolf Schäfer, Senior Director Sales & Marketing

Are you interested in the GAMBIT multi-tier architecture model as central connection and interconnection platform for Cloud and ERP applications? Please feel free to contact me.

What is an IT architecture?

What is an IT architecture?

"IT architecture" is a collective term for all aspects of IT in an organization - whether static in the form of hardware or dynamic in the form of software.

The term thus covers infrastructures, software and interfaces as well as the management instances used to organize IT.

Infrastructures include hardware, networks and locations. Management instances include aspects such as configuration, capacity and load distribution, availability, reliability, data security and disaster recovery.

All the elements mentioned are related to each other in the form of business processes and data objects. Thus, IT architecture defines the basic structures of the IT organization on the one hand. On the other hand, it defines rules for the dynamic interaction of all components.

Setting up and operating an IT architecture is always done with the aim of providing the best possible support for the strategy and the operative business of a company.

Digression: What is the difference between IT architecture and enterprise architecture?

Digression: What is the difference between IT architecture and enterprise architecture?

The term Enterprise Architecture (EA) describes the interaction of IT and business processes in a company. In contrast to pure IT architecture, Enterprise Architecture Management (EAM) is a more holistic approach, which is often associated with a higher degree of abstraction. The overriding goal is to align the company's IT with the business objectives.

Enterprise Architecture has four subarchitectures:

  • Business architecture: process map, organization, resources, goals
  • Information architecture: data models and data objects and their relationships
  • Application architecture: actual and target system landscape
  • Technological architecture: architecture from an operational perspective, physical components (servers, networks, etc.), service providers, service levels

The enterprise architecture is also supplemented by frameworks that describe the levels. In many cases these are freely available on the market.

TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework), for example, is very widespread. The framework contains a structure as well as the necessary basic elements for building your own Enterprise Architecture Management.

Downloads & Links

  • Whitepaper “The modern IT architecture with SAP S/4HANA”

    With a greenfield implementation of SAP S/4HANA, companies lay the foundation for a modern and permanently flexible IT architecture - with immediately available best-practice standards for various industries and sectors.

  • Whitepaper “Your way to SAP S/4HANA”

    Find out how to create the basis for a valid and secure roadmap and which aspects you should pay particular attention to.whitepaper “Your path to SAP S/4HANA”

  • Whitepaper “RISE with SAP”

    Solutions and services for digital transformation

  • Whitepaper "SAP Best Practices"

    Fully automated, efficient processes, more flexibility, greater innovation protection, faster and simpler SAP implementations: These and many other goals can be achieved with SAP Best Practices, the SAP standard. But what exactly is behind the preconfigured and integrated processes? And how can companies use them?

Modelling of IT architecture

Modelling of IT architecture

The design of an IT architecture involves numerous stakeholders. Models are used to support communication and illustration.

There is no uniform standard in IT architecture management. In order to find a suitable type of modeling for a company, a number of questions must therefore first be asked and answered:

  • What is the purpose of modelling?
  • What are the stakeholders' information needs?
  • Which decisions are made on the basis of the model?
  • Which committees or roles are allowed to change the model?
  • What will the continuous updating process look like?

Common models for applications and processes are

  • Process map: provides a technical overview
  • Process support card: represents the IT support of processes
  • Business process models: represents business functions, tools and required systems
  • Cluster map: supports the development planning and decision making

Let us take a closer look at these types of modeling because of their practical relevance.

1. Process map

1. Process map

The process map is an abstract form of representation. It contains only business processes.

A distinction is often made between control and core business processes. IT architects and other stakeholders use this method to obtain a rough overview of the company structure.

2. Process Support Card

2. Process Support Card

A detailed level below the process map is the process support map. It shows which applications support a particular process. As a further refinement, organizational units can also be included in the display.

In this way, the IT process support of individual locations or departments can be visualized. Among other things, it becomes clear how heterogeneous the system landscape is. This is an important point of reference in standardization projects.

3. Business process models

3. Business process models

If a targeted consideration of specialist functions is to be carried out, business process models can help. For example, a business function can be "Post payment". For this process detail, the following questions are then answered (graphically displayed):

  • What is the status of the specialist function (here, for example, "Payment posted")
  • Which organizational units use the specialist function?
  • Which business objects are required (for example, "invoice")
  • What applications are required to run the function?

4. Cluster map

4. Cluster map

The cluster map is a universal tool in the modeling of IT architectures. Several levels can be defined for each map. Example:

  • Level 1: Process (e.g. sales)
  • Level 2: Organizational unit or location (e.g. Munich, Berlin)
  • Level 3: Applications per site

The following question is therefore answered at a glance: Which applications are used by my organizational units in process XY (for example, Sales and Distribution)?

IT architectures with GAMBIT

No time-consuming redesign required, reduced payback time, integration of cloud applications - just three advantages of our IT architectures.

How is an analysis of the IT architecture carried out?

How is an analysis of the IT architecture carried out?

Before IT architectures can be designed, the existing IT landscape must first be analyzed. This involves determining which systems, software, hardware and other components are currently in use.

An IT architecture review can answer the following questions, among others:

  • Is my IT architecture sustainable and future-proof?
  • How secure is the architecture?
  • What measures are necessary to realize the target vision?

In the course of time, IT architectures sometimes grow uncontrolled. It is then no longer guaranteed that they meet the goals of all stakeholders.

Professional architecture analyses therefore always include the stakeholder goals and identify critical elements at an early stage. Weaknesses are systematically uncovered using suitable evaluation methods.

What do you need? And what trends will shape the future?

Thomas Pasquale, Founder and Managing Director

What does an IT architect do?

What does an IT architect do?

The professional profile of the IT architect is broadly defined. On the one hand, the activity includes basic work such as the preparation and supervision of IT development plans. On the other hand, however, it also includes highly specific work that requires specialist knowledge of hardware or software components.

Specialized IT architects are responsible for defining software architectures and system solutions and planning their implementation. This is done on the basis of existing processes. For this purpose, the IT specialists record the business management structure and the requirements of a company.

The IT architects are also responsible for integrating new applications into the system landscape. In doing so, they ensure that the implementation of new components has no negative effects. They also find solutions to any difficulties that arise.

For work on the IT architecture, the knowledge of all IT systems used in the company is bundled. The IT architects create so-called IT master plans, which visually represent the IT system landscape of an organization.

Often there are different views with different abstractions and approaches for possible solutions. The goal of the development plans is to create transparency with regard to the current and future IT landscape. In this way, the later implementation can also be prepared. Accordingly, a distinction must be made between actual and target development landscapes.

All plans and models are used for interdepartmental and cross-company communication. In addition, the management can be informed about the current situation regarding the IT infrastructure.

It must be ensured that the development plans are always up-to-date. IT architects need support from other IT experts such as software architects, business analysts, requirement engineers (requirement managers) and developers.

Last but not least, the IT architect derives the IT strategy including the relevant IT services from the corporate strategy. Thus, he also fulfils an important task of Enterprise Architecture Management.

  • In summary, work on IT architecture touches on the following areas:
  • Definition of the IT strategy based on business requirements
  • Creation and updating of IT development plans
  • Holistic representation of system connections
  • Recognition of synergies in the IT landscape
  • Modelling of processes and IT architectures
  • Communication with decision-makers and those responsible for implementation, consulting

What should you pay particular attention to when working on the IT architecture?

What should you pay particular attention to when working on the IT architecture?

IT architects must draw a picture of the company-wide IT architecture that is as holistic as possible, which can then be broken down to different levels. Ideally, they should therefore include not only all levels of architecture, but also all organizational levels in the modeling for later implementation.

In large companies, architecture frameworks are often used for this purpose. These are approaches for different phases of Enterprise Architecture Management - for example, design, planning, implementation and maintenance.

For work on the IT architecture, therefore, only specialists with strong IT and business management know-how should be commissioned. They must be able to communicate with all organizational levels of a company. This is particularly true for Enterprise Architects, who are often in contact with management.

If necessary, employees can develop the necessary communication skills in special training courses. Due to a lack of neutrality or complex issues, in some cases external IT architecture consultants are also consulted.

Success Story

Read here how GAMBIT introduced a smart two-layer architecture with SAP S/4HANA as central data hub at Lohmann.

IT architecture training

IT architecture training

Employees and managers from the IT environment have the opportunity to further their education in the form of IT architecture training. Appropriate training courses can provide basic knowledge of IT architecture plans and international standards (e.g. TOGAF).

The introduction of EAM (Enterprise Architecture Management) is also often discussed. The scope of an IT architecture training course should also include the analysis of actual architectures and the definition of objectives. Current technology trends such as the cloud and hybrid infrastructures should also be covered.

Modern IT architecture in companies

Modern IT architecture in companies

Outdated IT architectures slow down the digital transformation and thus endanger competitiveness. But how do modern IT architectures present themselves in companies?

Experts assume that loosely coupled systems, external data centers and automatically configurable infrastructures will gain in importance.

In detail, agile and modern IT architectures consist of several building blocks.

  • The first step is to retrofit "slowing" legacy systems.
  • Microservices are also becoming increasingly important in terms of agility, scalability and stability. Microservices break down complex applications into individual parts.
  • Increasingly, it is also necessary to integrate systems and applications developed in-house by a wide range of manufacturers. Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) is clearly on the rise here.

A further challenge is the constantly increasing amount of data. Information available from various sources must also be subjected to increasingly sophisticated analyses. This is where in-memory technologies such as SAP HANA play a decisive role.

As far as infrastructures are concerned, the trend is clearly towards the cloud. Hybrid environments (on-premise and cloud) require close integration. This is especially true if the systems come from different providers or are based on different IT architectures.

Last but not least, IT security must be considered. Protective measures must no longer relate to individual applications. Instead, a holistic concept is required. This concept must also include external partners such as suppliers and customers. Experts expect Security-as-a-Service to become more widely accepted in this area.

You can find even more knowledge in our SAP Wiki!

What is SAP EHS?

SAP EHS is software that companies use to realise compliance with environmental, health and safety legislation. This page describes the solution and its functions in detail.

What is SAP PMR?

SAP PMR (Promotion Management for Retail) is a solution for managing promotions in retail. Find out more about the features, benefits, integration and use of the platform here.

What is SAP GxP?

SAP GxP stands for the use of SAP systems in regulated industries with a view to compliance. This article describes the possibilities and advantages of SAP with GxP in the life sciences industry.

What is SAP ICH Life Sciences?

SAP ICH Life Sciences (Information Collaboration Hub for Life Sciences) is a platform for the smooth exchange of data in the pharmaceutical industry. This page explains the solution in detail.

What is SAP ATTP?

SAP ATTP (Advanced Track and Trace for Pharmaceuticals) is a solution for the serialisation and tracking of pharmaceutical products. This article describes the functions and benefits.

What is SAP CAR?

SAP CAR is a solution for analyzing and monitoring customer journey data in the retail sector. Read here what the functions and advantages of the platform are.

What is SAP IBP?

SAP IBP is an AI-powered cloud solution designed to optimize supply chain planning in businesses. This article provides key insights into the platform’s features and capabilities.

What is SAP DM?

SAP DM (SAP Digital Manufacturing) is a cloud MES solution for controlling, monitoring and analysing production. Get to know the functions and benefits of the platform here.

What is SAP PPDS?

SAP PPDS is a solution for production planning and detailed planning in the manufacturing industry. This article provides an overview of the functions, mode of operation and advantages of the software.

What is SAP TM?

SAP TM (Transportation Management) is a solution for planning, controlling and optimising transport processes. This article shows what the application does in detail and where its advantages lie.

What is SAP PSM?

SAP Public Sector Management (SAP PSM) is ERP software for public administration. In this article you will learn more about the functions, advantages and implementation of the industry solution!

What is the SAP Analytics Cloud?

SAP Analytics Cloud is a solution for business intelligence, advanced analytics and business planning - completely web-based.

What exactly is SAP?

What do companies need SAP's software for, what is SAP S/4HANA, and what do SAP consultants do? We explain what SAP and all that is about.

What are SAP S/4HANA Lines of Business (SAP LoB)?

What are Lines ob Business (SAP LoB) in SAP S/4HANA and how do they differ from the modules of previous SAP ERP solutions? This article sheds light on the new terminology.

What's new? SAP S/4HANA Cloud 2108 Release

At the beginning of August 2021, SAP released 2108 for the SAP S/4HANA Cloud. The release SAP S/4HANA Cloud 2108 delivers numerous innovations, here are some of the highlights.

SAP S/4HANA - Business management benefits

Most companies are currently thinking about their S/4HANA Roadmap or are already implementing it. The direct economic benefits that S/4HANA can have are open to many.

Preparation for SAP S/4HANA 10-point checklist

Are you responsible for the implementation of SAP S/4HANA in your company? Read here which aspects play a central role in every project and require special attention.

Transfer Z programs to SAP S/4HANA

Many companies are wondering whether you can continue to use your Z programs under SAP S/4HANA. Here you can find out whether this is possible, whether it makes sense - and what other options are now available.

Preparation for the conversion to SAP S/4HANA

How can companies prepare for the changeover to SAP S/4HANA?

What is SAP S/4HANA?

Started as a pure database, SAP HANA continued to develop into a software platform. Today it is the basis of the Business Suite 4 SAP HANA, or "SAP S/4 HANA" for short.

What is SAP Fiori?

SAP Fiori is designed to transform the SAP user experience and adapt to the fast pace of digital change. But what is and can Fiori really do? What makes it better and what is behind it?

What is SAP Activate?

The SAP Activate Methodology is a framework to implement SAP S/4HANA and other SAP solutions. It is based on best practices, guided configuration, and an implementation methodology.

What is Technical Due Diligence?

The Technical Due Diligence deals with the technical aspects of the object of purchase - in particular plants and real estate.

What is Selective Focus Due Diligence?

Setting the focus where it counts - that is what Selective Focus Due Diligence does.

What is due diligence?

Due diligence is an analysis and valuation of companies prior to M&A transactions.

What is CISA certification?

This certificate identifies IT professionals as experts in IT testing, security and control.

What is a Split-Off?

If a part of a company is outsourced and becomes independent, a split-off can occur.

What is a Spin-Off?

The spin-off is one of several possibilities to outsource areas of a company. In this article, we explain in detail how processes of this kind take place.

What is a Management Buy-out?

If parts of a company are spun off and become independent as subsidiaries, one speaks of an MBO.

What is an Employee Buy-out?

If employees buy a part or an entire company, one speaks of an EBO.

What is SAP Sports One?

Together with TSG Hoffenheim and FC Bayern Munich as well as the DFB, SAP has developed a platform for sports clubs and associations with the cloud-based solution SAP Sports One.

Why TSA secure the M&A Deal

In an M&A deal or divestment, the main focus is on the purchase and contract negotiations. Often not enough importance is attached to considering the time after closing. But it should!

Benefits and disadvantages of SAP S/4HANA and SAP ERP

SAP S/4HANA is SAP's current ERP software and has replaced SAP ERP. What are the benefits and disadvantages of both systems?

What is Vendor Due Diligence?

If the seller commissions the due diligence examination, this is referred to as a "vendor due diligence".

Differences between SAP R/3, ECC and S/4HANA

All three products are ERP systems. But what are the differences between SAP R/3, SAP ECC and SAP S/4HANA?

What is the Universal Journal?

The Universal Journal combines the two areas of Financial Accounting (FI) and Controlling (CO).

Transformation with SAP Object Based Transformation

The limitless transformation of data content - across system boundaries. A wish of many companies, which mostly remained a dream come true. With SAP Object Based Transformation the dream becomes reality.

Master Data Optimization with SAP MDG

Growing structures are also accompanied by an increase in the demands placed on a company's own master data. Incorrect or deficient master data can have significant consequences for a company.

What is the Simplification List?

The Simplification List is a reference work that contains all the changes and innovations resulting from the transition from SAP ERP 6.0 to SAP S/4HANA.

Share Deal

With a share deal, companies and private investors have the opportunity to take over another company in whole or in part. But how do transactions of this kind work?

What is SAP Sustainability Footprint Management?

Efficient CO2 management along the entire value chain - with SAP Sustainability Footprint Management. Read here what you need to know about it.

What is SAP Signavio?

Companies need to continuously design, evaluate, improve and transform business processes to survive in dynamic markets. SAP Signavio helps them with this task. What's behind it?

SAP development

Customizing SAP systems and processes to meet individual requirements and increase efficiency - that's what SAP development is all about. Read here what you need to know about it.

Service Level Agreement (SLA)

With an SLA, the provision of services can be regulated in detail. On this page, we explain what is important and what possibilities there are for the content of the contract.

What is the SAP Signavio Process Explorer?

Change and improve processes to quickly generate more value - SAP Signavio Process Explorer now helps you to do so. Get to know the new solution from SAP Signavio here.

SAP security

Security issues in the IT and SAP environment are becoming increasingly important. In the following, you will learn how to discover security gaps and, above all, how to eliminate them.

What is a value driver tree?

The value driver tree enables companies to optimize analyses and planning processes. What is behind the approach? And how is it implemented in SAP?

What is an SAP Model Company?

An SAP Model Company facilitates and accelerates the transition to SAP S/4HANA. Here you can find all the information about which Model Companies are available and what advantages they offer.

What SAP S/4HANA cloud solutions are there?

The road leads to the cloud. Ultimately, this makes it possible to use current technologies without having to upgrade your own IT infrastructure. But which SAP cloud is best for whom?

SAP Leonardo

What is actually under the guise of SAP Leonardo and how can companies benefit in particular from the Machine Learning Services offered?

SAP LSMW

SAP LSMW (Legacy System Migration Workbench) enables convenient data migration from legacy systems to SAP and other data operations. Learn more about the various application scenarios!

SAP Lumira - visualize and analyze data

SAP Lumira is a software for data visualization and analysis. Read here what features and advantages the solution offers - and what significance it still has with regard to the SAP Analytics Cloud.

SAP MOBILE

With the development platform SAP Mobile Platform and the SAP Fiori Apps, SAP is taking the path towards mobile applications - for secure and convenient use of SAP also with smartphones & Co.

SAP New GL: The New General Ledger

Companies should switch to SAP New GL now. Why this is important, which functions the new general ledger offers and why the changeover with GAMBIT's software tool makes sense, read here.

SAP PM

Companies use SAP PM (Plant Maintenance) to control and monitor the maintenance of their production plants and machines. On this page we explain the module and its advantages in detail.

What is SAP's AI assistant Joule?

At the end of September 2023, SAP presented the AI assistant Joule. It understands natural language, can process data from SAP and third-party systems, and derive new insights from it.

What is SAP ICMR?

ICMR provides a real-time solution that makes it easier to reconcile intra-group business transactions automatically. Read here which functions and advantages SAP ICMR offers.

What is SAP HANA?

Started as a pure database, SAP HANA continued to develop into a software platform. Today it is the basis of the Business Suite 4 SAP HANA, or "SAP S/4 HANA" for short.

What is SAP Group Reporting?

SAP S/4HANA for Group Reporting is a consolidation solution integrated with SAP S/4HANA - a global platform for data entry, preparation, consolidation and reporting.

SAP GTS - Everything new in S/4HANA?

With SAP S/4HANA, many familiar solutions and modules are being replaced - it feels like no stone is left unturned. Will SAP customers have to say goodbye to SAP GTS (Global Trade Services) in the future?

SAP GUI

Every business software needs a user interface. At SAP, this interface was called SAP GUI for a long time. It is still used, but was replaced by SAP Fiori for SAP S/4HANA.

SAP HANA Data Management Suite

The importance of universal data is immense. With the SAP HANA DATA MANAGEMENT SUITE, SAP provides a central business data platform that enables up-to-date data quality.

SAP HCM

SAP HCM is an integrated HR management system. In this article, we explain the functions and purpose of HCM and introduce the cloud-based successor solution SAP SuccessFactors HCM.

SAP HEC - a path to the cloud

SAP HEC (SAP HANA Enterprise Cloud) is a managed, private cloud environment for running SAP HANA applications. Read on this page what is behind the solution in detail.

SAP overview - products and solutions

SAP S/4HANA or SAP Fiori, SAP S/4HANA Cloud or RISE with SAP - we explain the most important current terms of the SAP world in simple terms.

SAP IS-U, SAP S/4HANA Utilities and SAP C4U

SAP IS-U is the previous SAP solution for the utility industry. With SAP S/4HANA Utilities and SAP C4U, SAP replaces this solution and offers utilities a chance to optimally position themselves for the future.

SAP Landscape Transformation 2.0

With the tools of SAP LT 2.0, running SAP systems can be safely adapted and converted - recommended especially when it comes to content adjustments or scenarios such as a carve-out.

What is SAP Customer Experience (SAP CX)?

Customer centricity is the order of the day. The SAP Customer Experience Suite (SAP CX) offers several solutions that companies can use to optimize and automate their customer-related activities.

What was the SAP Cloud Platform?

The SAP Cloud Platform was a Platform-as-a-Service offering from SAP. The brand's services have been available via the SAP Business Technology Platform since the beginning of 2021.

What is SAP Greenfield?

SAP Greenfield is the implementation of SAP S/4 HANA without taking over existing system structures. The system is completely new. This involves risks - but above all opens up opportunities

What is SAP Cloud ALM?

SAP Cloud ALM is a cloud-based offering from SAP that enables companies to implement and manage cloud solutions. Find out what it's all about here.

What is SAP Datasphere?

Get a handle on your business-relevant data with SAP Datasphere. The SAP solution provides a central environment for the provision and analysis of data from SAP and non-SAP systems.

Central Finance, Simple Finance or S/4HANA Finance?

SAP Central Finance, SAP Simple Finance or SAP S/4HANA Finance - the variety of terms can be confusing. We will shed light on this and tell you how the solutions diffe

SAP Business One

SAP Business One is an ERP system for SMEs. It covers all important areas of a company and offers interesting additional functions. Learn more about the software on this page!

SAP C4C (SAP Hybris Cloud for customer)

With the SAP C4C solution, companies are moving their CRM to the cloud. You can read in this article how the system presents itself in detail and which advantages it offers. Find out more now

SAP Cloud Security: How secure is the SAP Cloud?

The security of data in the cloud is a topic that many companies view critically. Yet the standards for SAP cloud security are extremely high.

SAP CRM

SAP CRM is a solution for the customer relationship management of companies. In our article we explain the functions for customer relationship management in detail.

SAP Data Hub

With SAP Data Hub, companies bring together data from different sources and formats to extract valuable knowledge. On this page, we explain in detail what is behind the platform.

SAP Data Services

SAP Data Services is the tool of the hour for the analysis, integration, transformation and quality management of data. Find out what it is all about and how it is used in practice.

SAP ERP

On this page you can read which ERP systems are offered by SAP and for which core processes and company size they are suitable. You will also receive information about the deployment models.

SAP EWM

Smooth processes in logistics are of great importance. Process optimization in the warehouse and in the supply chain is therefore on the agenda of numerous executives. SAP EWM can help.

Highlights of SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud 2408 Release

SAP has published Release 2408 for SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Public Edition. Here you will find information on the most important new features.

SAP S/4HANA Migration Cockpit

The SAP S/4HANA Migration Cockpit is a tool developed by SAP and successor to LSMW for data migration to SAP S/4HANA. It is currently the only tool for migration to the cloud.

SAP S/4HANA Cloud 2208 Release Highlights

SAP has released 2208 for the SAP S/4HANA Cloud. This article provides an overview of some of the most important innovations.

SAP S/4HANA 2020 Release

SAP has published the latest release for the on-premise version of SAP S/4HANA: the SAP S/4HANA 2020 Release. This release provides companies with new functions and innovations in all areas.

What is SAP RE-FX?

Managing large stocks of real estate is complex. With RE-FX, SAP provides a solution for companies to simplify real estate management significantly.

SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Public Edition

This SAP cloud solution is always equipped with the latest technologies and is ready for use very quickly.

SAP Ariba - Solutions for Purchasing and Procurement

Digitize purchasing and procurement processes, from supplier selection to contract - with SAP Ariba. We provide an overview of the features, functions and benefits of the cloud-based B2B marketplace.

SAP ABAP

ABAP is a proprietary programming language that was developed for programming applications in the SAP context. It is basically similar to the COBOL programming language

The 6 biggest risks of an SAP transformation

Changing SAP systems involves many dangers and stumbling blocks. We've dealt with the six biggest threats. From carve-out to merge - the malice of your transformation scenario

Reorganization of SAP Merchandise Group

Historically, product group structures have mostly grown strongly and urgently need to be optimized. What stumbling blocks are to be expected on the way to a successful reorganization of product groups?

New SAP S/4HANA Cloud update cycle

SAP provides regular upgrades and updates for cloud customers. The delivery cycle has changed at the beginning of 2022.

Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a technology from the field of artificial intelligence. Find out what is behind Machine Learning and how it is used in companies.

Liquidity planning

Companies need reliable liquidity planning. In this way they avoid liquidity bottlenecks and insolvency. SAP Central Finance supports planning with real-time financial data.

Liquidity ratios

Liquidity ratios are an indicator of whether a company can meet its payment obligations. Liquidity ratios 1-3 are used to measure short-term liquidity positions.

Cost plan conversion in SAP

There are many reasons for a chart of accounts conversion. However, the conversion itself involves a number of dangers that need to be avoided. In the following article, we will show you how to do this.

Joint Venture

A joint venture is when different companies cooperate as partners. In several cases it can be advantageous for companies to cooperate with other companies.

IT architecture models

How can an IT architecture be rebuilt? What role do IT architecture models play? And which current trends are currently changing the view of IT architecture? You can find the answers here.

Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 refers to the digitalization of industrial production. On this page we deal comprehensively with the background. In addition, we explain what is changing for companies in detail.

What is IFRS 15?

Since 2018, companies have to apply the international accounting standard IFRS 15. On this page you can find out everything about the background, content, effects and implementation.

What is SAP Build?

Developing without code knowledge? SAP Build makes it possible. The solution can be used to build apps, automate processes and create corporate websites. Get to know SAP Build here.

Digital Twin – Twin with added value

In the Digital Twin, the analogue and digital worlds merge. The virtual image of a real product collects data, enables simulations or allows improvements to be tested - without much effort.

SAP Business Technology Platform

What is the SAP Business Technology Platform? Learn more about the solution here and find out what possibilities and advantages SAP BTP offers.

Data Warehouse

A data warehouse enables companies to combine and analyze a wide variety of data. You will find everything worth knowing about data warehousing and corresponding systems on this page!

SAP Basis - operation, structure and definition

SAP Basis is the foundation of every SAP system. On this page you can find out what is behind the term and what SAP Basis is responsible for in detail.

SAP Authorization System under SAP S/4HANA

The introduction or conversion to SAP S/4HANA can be an opportunity to optimize your own SAP authorization system.

SAP Best Practices: Definition, Meaning and Use

Those who use SAP Best Practices benefit several times over. The standards simplify and accelerate business processes and make companies more flexible. They also help with the changeover to SAP S/4HANA

SAP BO explained in detail and understandably

SAP BO is a collection of products from numerous individual solutions, with which companies realize analysis and visualization of business management data. But what does this mean in concrete terms

SAP BRF+ - Implement business rules easily in ABAP

With the SAP Business Rule Framework plus (SAP BRF+), complex business rules can be accommodated in SAP - and without specific IT know-how. Learn more about this approach here.

SAP C/4HANA and CX - for sales, service, marketing

With SAP C/4HANA or SAP CX, companies manage their customer experience with the latest generation of tools. Find out here how this SAP product family is made up and what it does.

SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Private Edition

The individual cloud solution for maximum data control

What is LeanIX?

SAP LeanIX is a solution for the management of Enterprise Architecture (EA), the IT enterprise architecture. Find out here what you need to know about the functions, benefits and areas of application of LeanIX.

What is the accounting SAP CO-PA?

Accounting-based SAP CO-PA is on the advance and is regarded as SAP's strategic solution. But is it really the market segment calculation of the future?

What is a Buy Side Due Diligence?

If the buyer commissions the due diligence examination, this is referred to as a "buy-side due diligence".

Corporate Finance

Corporate finance is embedded in every corporate strategy. Every activity must be financed, capital must be used optimally, the value of the company must be increased and risks must be averted.

SAP Demo System: Experience S/4HANA live immediately

With the help of live demo systems, companies can experience SAP S/4HANA immediately - and thus, among other things, test and evaluate whether the SAP best practice standard is sufficient for their processes.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial Intelligence is not new, but it has been getting new attention since end of 2022 with the introduction of ChatGPT. Read here what you need to know about AI.

Adobe Forms for SAP

Adobe Forms for SAP lets you develop forms - a technology that surpasses its two predecessors, SAPscript and SmartForms.

Asset Deal

Companies that buy companies have several options. One variant: the asset deal. What does the term mean? What are the advantages of this procedure? What are the practical implications?

GROW with SAP

GROW with SAP is SAP's new offering for new customers and midsize companies to get started quickly and easily with SAP S/4HANA.

Greenfield vs. Brownfield: the right strategy

There are different ways to SAP S/4HANA: Greenfield, Brownfield or even a selective migration. To find out where the differences lie and the advantages and disadvantages of the respective strategies, read here.

12 questions about SAP S/4HANA Cloud

What cloud solutions does SAP offer? What does RISE with SAP have to do with the SAP S/4HANA Cloud? And what are the advantages of the SAP Cloud? Here are the answers!

M&A deals: opportunities and risks

New highs in M&A deals are being recorded, and the value of deals worldwide has also risen significantly recently. But why is that and what are M&A deals anyway?

What is SAP SuccessFactors?

SAP SuccessFactors is an HR cloud solution. It supports companies in controlling and transforming their HR management processes. In this article, we provide an overview of the solution.

ECC conversion by 2033: SAP Cloud Transition Option

New offering for SAP customers: In Q2 2025, SAP will introduce a "transition option" to support the move from SAP ECC to SAP Cloud by 2033 (instead of 2030).

What is the SAP Business Data Cloud?

The SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) is a fully managed SaaS solution for standardizing and managing SAP data. Read here what you need to know about BDC.

What is SAP Business Suite in the cloud?

SAP has relaunched the name Business Suite - for all of the Group's cloud applications. Read here what you need to know about the new Business Suite.

What is an e-invoice?

E-invoicing between domestic companies has been mandatory since January 1, 2025. Here you will find answers to the most important questions about electronic invoicing.

What is SAP Document and Reporting Compliance?

SAP Document and Reporting Compliance (SAP DRC) is the SAP solution. Companies can use it to meet compliance requirements. Read here what you need to know about SAP DRC.

ETL Process

The ETL process is one of the fundamental concepts in computer science. It enables the transformation of data from various sources into valuable knowledge. On this page, you will learn more about the details!

19 questions about SAP S/4HANA

What is SAP S/4HANA? What are the advantages of SAP S/4HANA? Or how to make the switch to the new ERP suite from SAP? Questions over questions. Here you will find the answers.

What is SAP Credit Management?

SAP Credit Management is a software solution that helps companies to manage credit risk when dealing with customers. Get to know the solution here.

What is SAP Cash Management?

SAP Cash Management helps companies to manage cash flows, liquidity planning and cash flow monitoring. Find out here what you need to know about this product.

What is SAP Collections and Dispute Management?

Efficient receivables management and rapid dispute resolution: SAP Collections and Dispute Management automates processes, improves liquidity and strengthens customer relationships - integrated in SAP S/4HANA.

What is SAP SCM?

SAP SCM is an independent product with various functions for supply chain management under SAP ECC. Read here what you need to know about SAP SCM.

What is WalkMe?

With the help of the Digital Adoption Platform, users can get to know and use software more easily and companies can optimize applications. WalkMe has been part of SAP since 2024. Get to know the solution here.

11 questions about SAP Central Finance

SAP Central Finance is an SAP platform for finance and controlling, reporting and consolidation. Read the answers to 11 key questions about Central Finance here.

Central processes in SAP Central Finance

With SAP Central Finance, processes in Finance can be centralized. Find out here what these processes are and what advantages they have in detail.

10 questions about RISE with SAP

What is RISE with SAP? What are the benefits of SAP's new offering and how does RISE relate to the SAP S/4HANA Cloud? We answer your questions about RISE with SAP.

SAP and Brexit: What you need to consider now

Since January 1, 2021, the negotiated partnership agreement between the EU and the United Kingdom has provisionally applied. Many companies still have to make necessary adjustments now.

Do you have any questions? I will be happy to help you.

arrow_upward Back to top