Cloud ERP: which version is best for your company
In this blog post, we will show you which cloud ERP versions of SAP are available and provide you with a practical decision-making aid. We explain the key differences between the cloud ERP versions, assign them to typical business situations and explain why we, at all4cloud, have positioned ourselves on the clear side of one of these systems.
Digitalization requires the right ERP strategy
The digital transformation poses enormous challenges for companies in every industry. Processes need to become faster, more flexible and more transparent – at the same time, the requirements for security, scalability and international competitiveness are increasing. In the midst of all these changes, one strategic decision takes center stage: choosing the right ERP system.
Companies that rely on conventional on-premise solutions are coming under increasing pressure – because without a modern cloud ERP, it is difficult to keep pace with the dynamics of the market. Updates are slower, integrations are more complex, and the necessary agility and location-independent access to real-time data is lacking. This not only creates operational disadvantages, but also strategic competitive risks.
With Cloud ERP, SAP offers a modern platform that specifically supports companies in their digital transformation – efficient, scalable and future-proof. But which version is best suited to the individual requirements of your company?
Two paths to digital cloud transformation: SAP Cloud ERP vs. SAP Cloud ERP private
SAP has several powerful ERP systems that are available to companies in two central cloud versions: SAP Cloud ERP and SAP Cloud ERP private. Both variants are based on the same technological foundation – the SAP HANA in-memory database – and offer real-time evaluations, modern user interfaces (SAP Fiori) and seamless integrations of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation or machine learning. Both versions also meet the highest standards in terms of security, compliance and continuous innovation. Below, we explain what makes each cloud ERP version different and what the key differences are.
When is SAP Cloud ERP private the right choice?
SAP Cloud ERP private is primarily aimed at companies that value the greatest possible freedom of design. It allows in-depth adaptations, enhancements and in-house developments – whether for mapping complex processes, industry-specific requirements or historically evolved system landscapes. The private version therefore offers a high degree of customizability, but at the same time requires more resources in terms of maintenance and project duration. Companies that already use SAP ECC or an older ERP solution often benefit from an easier transition to SAP Cloud ERP private, as existing processes can be adopted and further developed in many cases. Individual developments may need to be adapted.
If your company is characterized by complex structures and specific industry requirements that cannot be easily mapped using standardized processes, SAP Cloud ERP private could be the right cloud ERP solution for your company.
Why does SAP Cloud ERP make sense for many companies?
SAP Cloud ERP relies on consistent standardization without sacrificing flexibility. It is aimed at companies that want to quickly create added value with clearly structured processes and minimal implementation effort. In the following section, we look at who this model is particularly suitable for – and what its strengths are.
SAP Cloud ERP offers a number of advantages that make it particularly attractive for companies looking for a modern, efficient and future-proof ERP solution. One key advantage is the rapid introduction of the system. Thanks to preconfigured standard processes based on SAP best practices, implementation can be carried out quickly and with clearly defined steps. SAP Cloud ERP relies on standardized business processes that can still be flexibly adapted to meet a company’s individual requirements. This fit-to-standard approach not only ensures simple process structures, but also enables the use of standardized training content and facilitates the scaling of business processes in the cloud.
Another crucial point is future-proofing: regular updates ensure that the system is always at the cutting edge of technology. Companies automatically benefit from new functions and innovations – without any additional implementation effort.
Last but not least, SAP Cloud ERP scores with the highest level of security. SAP guarantees comprehensive security standards, which are regularly checked and updated internally and externally, especially in this solution.
For these reasons, SAP Cloud ERP is increasingly the preferred way for new customers who want to rely on simple, scalable and standardized processes – with the aim of driving their digital transformation efficiently and sustainably.
A look into practice: platform providers, technical service providers and professional services
A good example of the benefits of SAP Cloud ERP are companies from the platform business, technical services or professional services sectors. They operate in a dynamic environment, need to scale quickly and often operate internationally. Complexity is less of a goal here than a risk that needs to be minimized.
A standardized, cloud-based ERP system is ideal for such companies in particular. They can harmonize their processes, tap into new markets more quickly and at the same time benefit from the speed of innovation that SAP guarantees through regular updates. Implementation is quick, use is intuitive and the systems grow with the company’s requirements.
Why we at all4cloud rely on SAP Cloud ERP
We, the all4cloud Group, decided early on to consistently rely on SAP Cloud ERP – not only out of conviction, but also from experience. As a 100% cloud company, we know that standardization is the key to successful digitalization. Our customers do not want a complex IT construct, but functioning processes that are scalable, maintainable and future-proof.
We believe that “fit-to-standard” does not mean losing flexibility, but rather gaining speed and clarity. That’s why we don’t develop architectures that look good on paper, but help companies to establish viable processes – processes that will still work tomorrow and can be operated with reasonable effort.
And yes: we drink our own champagne. We use what we recommend ourselves. This not only gives us credibility, but also deep insights into what really works.
Conclusion
There is no standard solution for everyone. Every company has individual requirements, goals and framework conditions – and this must be reflected in the choice of ERP system. Whether highly standardized processes, rapid scaling or complex structures with a high need for individualization: SAP’s cloud ERP systems offer the right technological basis, but the choice between SAP Cloud ERP and SAP Cloud ERP private is strategically decisive.
As a long-standing SAP partner and 100% cloud company, we at all4cloud consistently rely on SAP Cloud ERP. Not because it is perfect for every scenario – but because we are convinced that standardization, scalability and future-proofing make the decisive difference for most growing companies. Our mission is to create liveable processes – not complicated architectures.
Let’s find out together how you can successfully shape your digital transformation with SAP Cloud ERP – pragmatic, scalable and future-oriented. Arrange a free discovery call – together we will analyze which cloud ERP solution is right for your company.