SAP S/4HANA in the manufacturing industry

The manufacturing industry is at a turning point. With global economic shifts, a volatile energy market, and rising uncertainty from crises and conflicts, companies must quickly adapt to thrive in the face of these challenges.

Despite short-term economic turbulence, industry leaders remain optimistic about future growth. The KPMG Global Manufacturing Prospects 2023 study shows that while many anticipate a temporary decline in profits, the majority are already focused on boosting productivity and solidifying their market position.

A critical component of this transformation lies in embracing new technologies. One of the most significant challenges facing manufacturers today is the transition to S/4HANA - an undertaking that impacts the entire organization while daily operations must continue without disruption; something which is particularly challenging in the manufacturing industry.

Based on our extensive experience with transformation projects, we know that the switch to S/4HANA is far more than just an IT initiative. A holistic approach to the S/4HANA conversion is essential for success. With this in mind, we've identified 11 key topics, outlined below, that highlight the complexity of S/4HANA transformations in the manufacturing industry. These insights reveal the diverse opportunities that come with the conversion and what companies need to focus on throughout the process.