Migration From SAP Legacy Software: Time Is Running Out

SAP has set a major milestone in its technology roadmap: the mandatory migration from its legacy software, including Business Suite 7 and ECC 6.0, to its new platform S/4HANA. Although the deadline has been extended to 2030, many companies have yet to take the first step.

What Does SAP’s Deadline Mean?

Originally, SAP planned to end support for its legacy software on December 31, 2025. However, it extended general support until the end of 2027, with an additional option through 2030. This move aims to give customers more time to plan and execute their migration to S/4HANA without disrupting operations. Still, according to Gartner, 60% of SAP customers continue to use the legacy platform and don’t intend to migrate by 2025.

Why Haven’t Companies Migrated?

Despite SAP’s push, many organizations remain hesitant. The main reasons are:

1. High Costs

Migrating to S/4HANA requires a significant investment. For many companies, their current systems still meet their business needs, making it difficult to justify the expense.

2. Project Complexity

The transition demands a deep system overhaul. It involves careful planning, extensive testing, and technical adjustments that can take years.

3. Lack of Skilled Personnel

Experts in both SAP and S/4HANA are in short supply. This makes project execution more difficult, drives up costs, and delays decisions.

4. Resistance to Change

Many organizations prefer to wait. Some doubt that SAP will hold its ground and are hoping for another support extension.

5. Other Business Priorities

Migration isn’t always seen as urgent. Some companies are focused on other strategic initiatives they consider more critical.

SAP Responds With RISE With SAP

SAP launched the RISE With SAP program to ease the migration. It offers cloud-based tools, technical support, and strategic guidance. The goal is to lower entry barriers and speed up the digital transformation of its customers.

SAP’s Vision: Cloud as Strategy

Christian Klein, CEO of SAP, has made it clear: the migration is not just a technical shift but a strategic business decision. The cloud is the future, and S/4HANA is the path to get there. While he acknowledges challenges, costs, complexity, and resistance—he emphasizes that SAP is committed to supporting its customers throughout the transition.

What Will Happen in 2025?

Even though support extends to 2030, 2025 remains a key milestone. Many organizations will face both internal and external pressure to define their migration roadmap. According to Gartner, 40% likely won’t be ready by that time, potentially creating a bottleneck in the SAP ecosystem.

Migrating to S/4HANA is not optional—it currently seems inevitable. SAP has provided more time, but it's unclear whether it will adjust its strategy and reverse course. Companies that continue to delay risk falling behind. The question is not if to migrate, but when and how. The sooner the plan is in place, the lower the impact and the greater the control over the process.