In a market flooded with cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) SaaS solutions for machinery maintenance – seemingly with little differentiation – informed decision-making can be a major dilemma. There are no guarantees: products may not always deliver the desired outcome. Adoption of some can result in unintended consequences – failing to address the problem at all, or even worsening unplanned maintenance and equipment downtime.

Having observed this impact on machinery reliability significantly, two experts from leading global software solutions provider, , advise asset and maintenance teams to apply due diligence when looking for suitable solutions. is 51·çÁ÷Value Prototyping I4.0 Global Portfolio & Programme Management, and is 51·çÁ÷Value Prototyping Lead and 51·çÁ÷Enterprise Architect.

The two share experiences drawn from addressing heavy industry’s specific needs in ERP SaaS in the Middle East and African region (MEA) with SAP’s flagship solutions: Ěý˛ą˛Ô»ĺĚý. Through highlighting common challenges, they hope to raise awareness about steps industries can take to make informed purchasing decisions to ensure their cloud ERP software enables optimal machinery maintenance.

Common Challenges

Heavy industry companies, such as those in mining or energy, often rely on critical machinery that must operate continuously even in remote or rugged environments. Moving to a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system can deliver real benefits such as greater visibility, improved maintenance scheduling, and predictive insights.

However, this also introduces challenges that must be managed carefully. The transition may not always be as smooth as generally desired, states Beradhi, underlining the following common challenges encountered:

• Adaptation

One of the biggest hurdles is adapting existing systems and processes to the standardised way software-as-a-service (SaaS) ERPs are designed to work. Instead of highly customised setups, these platforms encourage businesses to adopt best practices “out of the box”. While well-meaning, this can involve significant change management.

• Integration

Integrating operational technology (OT) – such as sensors, industrial control systems, and machine data – with information technology (IT) systems also presents difficulties. Unfortunately, when companies adopt multiple technology vendors, protocols, and legacy systems for asset maintenance, integration issues often arise. These problems can lead to inconsistent data and disrupted workflows, which makes ensuring real-time visibility more complex. In addition, it results in increased costs for custom connectors and maintenance.

• Remote Locations

Remote locations with unreliable connectivity also pose problems. In such environments, field teams need offline capabilities to continue working without internet access. This challenge is particularly relevant in parts of Africa where infrastructure limitations can affect connectivity and system responsiveness.

• Data Quality, Cybersecurity, and Speed

Data quality is another sticking point. Firstly, without consistent, well-governed data models, it is difficult to obtain accurate analytics or build effective predictive maintenance strategies. Secondly, safety and cybersecurity must also be considered, especially when bridging IT and OT systems. Lastly, getting workers up to speed with new tools requires tailored training that reflects on-the-ground realities.

Wrong Assumptions Software Developers Make

These abovementioned challenges are worsened when software developers make wrong assumptions about the needs of clients in heavy industry during product design. “When building cloud-based asset management solutions for heavy industries, software developers sometimes overlook real-world conditions,” Poltera points out, underlining oversights in the following areas:

ľ±.ĚýData Quality and Connectivity Issues
A common assumption is that clean, real-time machine data will be readily available. In practice, data quality varies widely, and connectivity issues can introduce delays. In addition, many systems assume uniformity in operational protocols, whereas heavy industry environments are often fragmented and vendor-diverse.

iľ±.ĚýMobile Application
Mobile applications are another pain point. Developers may assume constant connectivity and uniform device usage. However, technicians frequently work in harsh, remote locations with limited network coverage and a range of mobile tools.

iiľ±.ĚýGeneric User Experience
User experience is often treated as generic, yet the needs of field technicians, planners, and reliability engineers differ vastly. For instance, data governance – especially around asset master data – is often overlooked, yet it is vital for ensuring that analytics and AI tools function properly.

ľ±±ą.ĚýUnderestimating Change Management
Finally, developers often underestimate the change management involved in shifting processes, or neglect safety compliance and system integration testing during upgrades.

Selecting Maintenance Solutions

Evidently, based on these bottlenecks, it is paramount that end-users exercise prudence in procurement when selecting ERP SaaS maintenance solutions. With many vendors in the market, it is not easy to separate the wheat from the chaff from the products out there.

Going Beyond Feature Checklists

For this reason, Beradhi advises heavy industry players to go beyond feature checklists, as there is more to ERP than merely ticking boxes before procurement.

“For asset reliability managers, uptime is everything. So, any solution they adopt needs to improve how well they can monitor, maintain, and optimise equipment.

“Hence, when evaluating different systems, it is important to go beyond feature checklists and consider whether the solution supports the realities of heavy industry environments such as harsh field conditions, remote locations, complex safety requirements, and integration with operational systems,” Beradhi explains, citing the following features as essential:

˛ą.ĚýOpenness and Interoperability
Openness and interoperability are key. Ideally, any modern maintenance system should be able to integrate seamlessly with shopfloor equipment, Internet of Things (IoT) platforms, geospatial systems (GIS), and analytics tools. The best time to avoid integration problems is during the procurement phase by setting clear expectations around integration, testing, and data standards from the outset.

“Organisations should treat integration as a priority, not an afterthought. That means requesting clear documentation on application programming interfaces (APIs), data event schemas, and compliance with operational technology (OT) standards such as ISA-95. They should also define a standardised asset data model and governance framework to ensure consistency across systems. Selecting platforms that are designed to work together reduces the need for expensive custom integrations, and any request for proposals (RFPs) should include integration testing as a mandatory requirement,” Beradhi says.

˛ú.ĚýFunctional Depth

Equally important is functional depth – features such as preventive maintenance, failure analysis, spares optimisation, contractor management, and safety procedures should all be included, stresses Poltera. “Mobile access, especially with offline functionality, is essential for field workers. So too is strong governance over asset data, with support for global standards such as ISO 14224. And of course, scalability, security, and cost transparency matter, especially in diverse and multi-site operations.”

All things considered, there should be no cutting corners in the procurement of SaaS. For all their perceived similarities, solutions have unique peculiarities, some of which could have a significant impact on machine monitoring and availability. The gist of the matter is: Avoid Assumptions in SaaS Procurement.

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“With expanding economies, a burgeoning young population, and increasing digital adoption, the continent is ripe with opportunities.”

Lopes added: “However, these prospects come with challenges that require strategic planning, technological adoption, and investment in skills.”

This article explores the key trends shaping Africa’s business future, emphasizing the role of and as pivotal ERP solutions for organizations looking to streamline operations and drive growth.

1. Economic growth and diversification: A continent on the rise

Africa’s GDP is projected to grow steadily, with sectors such as agriculture, technology, and services leading the charge.

According to the World Bank, Sub-Saharan Africa’s economy is expected to expand by 4.0% in 2025, driven by increased trade, investment, and digital transformation.

Notable economies like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are seeing continued growth, while emerging markets such as Rwanda and Ethiopia are gaining momentum.

Key statistics:

• Africa’s tech sector secured $4.9 billion in venture capital funding in 2022, a 2.5x increase from 2021, with fintech and e-commerce startups leading the way.
• The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to boost intra-African trade by over 50% by 2025, creating a market of 1.3 billion people.

2. The role of ERP Solutions: 51·çÁ÷Business One and S/4HANA Public Cloud

As businesses across Africa scale, the need for robust systems to manage complex operations becomes essential.

ERP systems like 51·çÁ÷Business One and 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud offer tailored solutions for small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations, respectively.

These cloud-based platforms streamline business processes, facilitate real-time data insights, and help companies manage everything from finance to supply chains seamlessly.

Why 51·çÁ÷Business One and S/4HANA Public Cloud?

 is designed for growing SMEs, providing an affordable yet comprehensive ERP solution that manages everything from sales and inventory to financials. For larger enterprises,  delivers a robust, scalable, and flexible cloud ERP that integrates seamlessly with various business functions, supporting faster decision-making and reducing operational costs.

Case example: Small enterprises benefiting from 51·çÁ÷Business One

A mid-sized manufacturing company in Kenya adopted 51·çÁ÷Business One to streamline its supply chain and financial management.
By integrating their operations into a single system, they reduced inventory holding costs by 15% and improved order processing times by 30%.

This not only improved customer satisfaction but also enabled them to scale operations efficiently to serve international markets.

3. Cloud adoption and the benefits of S/4HANA Public Cloud

51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud is becoming the go-to ERP for enterprises seeking flexibility and scalability.

By leveraging the cloud, businesses can avoid heavy upfront IT investments, benefit from automatic software updates, and ensure that their systems are always running on the latest technology.

The SaaS model offers predictable costs, making it easier for businesses to budget for digital transformation.

Key statistics:

• Gartner reported that 67% of S/4HANA deals in 2023 were through SAP’s RISE program, which packages ERP, infrastructure, and services into a single contract, making it easier for businesses to transition to the cloud.
• Companies using S/4HANA Public Cloud have reported a 40% reduction in IT costs due to streamlined operations and automated updates.

These are critical stats that show the power of the SaaS model.

Human example: Modernizing operations with 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud

A global aerospace company, leveraged 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud to unify its operations across multiple regions.
The ERP allowed them to standardize processes, enabling them to manage production schedules and supply chains more efficiently.

This transformation not only improved operational efficiency but also gave Bombardier a competitive edge against larger aerospace competitors.

4. Navigating challenges: infrastructure, skills, and digital integration

While the future looks promising, businesses in Africa still face infrastructural deficits, a skills gap, and challenges in digital integration.

Connectivity in rural areas, for instance, remains a concern, and there’s a pressing need to upskill the workforce to manage sophisticated digital tools like ERP systems.

Building Digital Skills To fully benefit from 51·çÁ÷Business One and S/4HANA Public Cloud, organizations need skilled personnel who can leverage these platforms effectively.

Companies investing in training and upskilling report smoother transitions and higher returns on their ERP investments.

For example, SAP’s “” initiative focuses on supporting small and mid-sized businesses in adopting S/4HANA Public Cloud, with a structured learning program designed to help them maximize their ERP capabilities.

5. Collaboration and strategic partnerships: The way forward

Strategic collaborations will be essential for businesses in Africa to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

Partnerships with technology providers like 51·çÁ÷are critical for accessing the latest ERP solutions and technical expertise.

51·çÁ÷has made it easier for companies to transition to cloud-based ERPs through programs like , which bundles software, infrastructure, and services, simplifying the migration process for businesses with limited IT resources.

Greenfield vs. brownfield ERP implementation

For businesses considering a move to 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud, two approaches are available: greenfield (a fresh implementation) and brownfield (system conversion).

Greenfield implementations allow companies to re-engineer business processes from scratch, while brownfield conversions are suitable for businesses looking to migrate existing setups with minimal disruption.

Each method has its advantages, depending on the company’s strategic goals and resources.

Shaping Africa’s business future with ERP solutions

As we look toward 2025, Africa’s business landscape is set for significant growth, with technology playing a central role.

51·çÁ÷Business One and 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud will be pivotal in supporting businesses of all sizes across the continent.

By enabling real-time data analysis, streamlined operations, and flexible cloud-based solutions, these ERPs help companies navigate the complexities of scaling in a rapidly evolving market.

C-suite executives must prioritize digital transformation, supported by the right ERP systems, strategic partnerships, and investment in human capital.

Companies that embrace cloud-based ERP solutions like 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Public Cloud and 51·çÁ÷Business One will be better positioned to harness the opportunities presented by Africa’s dynamic business environment, paving the way for sustainable growth and enhanced global competitiveness.

Let us at SEIDOR assist you in moving your business towards the future.

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While both options have their merits, businesses should  consider whether they need customisation and control to empower their businesses objectives and achieve individualised goals.

SaaS ERP has gained significant popularity in recent years, owing to its ease of implementation and maintenance. With SaaS, companies can access their ERP systems through the cloud, eliminating the need for extensive hardware infrastructure and reducing upfront costs.

It also offers scalability without significant disruptions. However, it must be noted that this convenience comes at the cost of limited customisation. SaaS ERP solutions typically cater to a broad range of industries, resulting in a one-size-fits-all approach that may not specifically align with a company’s unique workflows and processes.

PaaS ERP solutions, meanwhile provide a higher degree of flexibility and customisation by allowing businesses to build their ERP systems on a pre-configured platform for greater control over workflows, integrations and reporting.

This level of customisation enables organisations to adapt the software to their unique needs, aligning it seamlessly with their existing processes.

“This level of customisation can’t be underestimated in a business environment that demands constant re-evaluation and change, and one in which a one-size-fits-all approach often falls short,” says Heinrich de Leeuw, Managing Director, .

“With solutions like , which empowers businesses with its robust features, scalability, and ability to integrate with other enterprise applications, businesses can tailor their ERP systems to fit their processes, workflows, and industry-specific regulations. This ability to customise business processes enhances efficiency, boosts productivity, and drives growth,” De Leeuw says.

Customisable ERP solutions can help to future-proof businesses by enabling organisations to embrace digital transformation and seize new opportunities without major disruptions to their current operations.

The flexibility of PaaS empowers organisations to integrate emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, into their ERP systems – paving the way for smarter decision-making and innovation.

“SaaS ERP solutions have their merits, especially for smaller businesses with limited resources and straightforward requirements.“ says De Leeuw. “PaaS can take SMEs to the next level by giving them control and customisation.

By aligning their ERP systems with their unique processes, organisations can unlock their full potential, enhance collaboration, and achieve a competitive edge in their respective markets.

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The report states that 51·çÁ÷offers leading-edge financial technology, machine learning, Big Data and analytics and cites SAP’s strength in technology investment, noting that the 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Cloud Finance solution includes innovations such as machine learning, continuous close features and automation through robotics processing. The IDC MarketScape also cited SAP’s rapid implementation methodology as a strength, with 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Cloud Finance implementation possible within a month using 51·çÁ÷Activate methodology where standard best practice processes, localized for 43 countries, can be used out of the box.

Globalization was also listed as a key strength, making 51·çÁ÷particularly attractive for large multinational, multientity organizations for which localization can be cumbersome and costly. The report states that 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Cloud Finance is adept at supporting even the most complex globalization demands including local legal guidelines and reporting standards.

“The ground underneath the feet of today’s financial professional is rapidly shifting to digital,” said Kevin Permenter, research manager, IDC’s Enterprise Applications. “It will be the companies with the right mix of talent and software tools that will be best able to thrive within these changing conditions. Software vendors that prioritize features that provide enhanced visibility, flexibility and agility will find themselves well positioned for future growth.”

With its industry-leading financial solutions and global approach, 51·çÁ÷is poised for accelerated adoption as the finance industry worldwide continues its record pace of digitalization.

To learn more, visit .

Visit the . Follow 51·çÁ÷on Twitter at .

Media Contact:
Samantha Finnegan, +1 (415) 377-0475, samantha.finnegan@sap.com, ET
51·çÁ÷Press Room;Ěýpress@sap.com

About IDC MarketScape: IDC MarketScape vendor assessment model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of ICT (information and communications technology) suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendor’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of IT and telecommunications vendors can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective vendors.

*IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SaaS and Cloud-Enabled Enterprise Finance and Accounting Applications 2020 Vendor Assessment –Doc #US45837320, May 2020.

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to 51·çÁ÷are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. 51·çÁ÷undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. The factors that could affect SAP’s future financial results are discussed more fully in SAP’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including SAP’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.
© 2020 51·çÁ÷SE. All rights reserved.
51·çÁ÷and other 51·çÁ÷products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of 51·çÁ÷SE in Germany and other countries. Please see for additional trademark information and notices.

This article first appeared on the 51·çÁ÷News Center.

The post IDC MarketScape Names 51·çÁ÷a Leader in SaaS and Cloud Finance appeared first on 51·çÁ÷Africa News Center.

• ¹Â â€” This report noted the ability of 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA to effectively manage complexity and promote sustainability by providing a clear view into business challenges with innovations like machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• ² — This assessment of ERP for professional services organizations highlights innovation in user experience in 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA and the visibility that this software provides across the business from pursuit to engagement closeout.
• ³ — This assessment of ERP for midmarket businesses recognizes the critical capabilities 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA provides to help ensure effective organizational navigation and market growth.

SAP’s leadership position in these reports is due in part to its strengths in technology investment in 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA, including innovations in integrated ERP, which incorporates intelligence into the fabric of the design with machine learning, continuous close features and automation through robotics processing. IDC MarketScape also indicated globalization as a critical strength in the reports, making 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA Cloud highly attractive to large multinational, multientity organizations for whom localization can be cumbersome and costly. In addition, 51·çÁ÷was also recently named a Leader in .⁴

“Service organizations, midmarket businesses and large enterprises are modernizing and transforming their enterprise application profiles, and ERP is at the top of their list,” said Mickey North Rizza, IDC program vice of enterprise applications and digital commerce. “SaaS and cloud-enabled ERP systems like 51·çÁ÷S/4HANA are in high demand because they deliver a timely and holistic view into business operations and processes. This is more critical than ever as many navigate turbulent markets.”

With its industry-leading PSA, midmarket business and large enterprise ERP applications, 51·çÁ÷is positioned to meet the needs of digital businesses and enterprises of all types while empowering them to be more resilient.

To learn more about IDC MarketScape’s latest reports, see ; and .

Visit the . Follow 51·çÁ÷on Twitter at .

Media Contact:
Samantha Finnegan, +1 (415) 377-0475, samantha.finnegan@sap.com, ET
51·çÁ÷Press Room;Ěýpress@sap.com

About IDC MarketScape: IDC MarketScape vendor assessment model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of ICT (information and communications technology) suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendor’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of IT and telecommunications vendors can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective vendors.

1. IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SaaS and Cloud-Enabled Large Enterprise ERP Applications 2020 Vendor Assessment – Doc #USUS45971820, July 2020.
2. IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SaaS and Cloud-Enabled PSA ERP Applications 2020 Vendor Assessment – Doc #US45971920, July 2020.
3. IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SaaS and Cloud-Enabled Medium-Sized/Midmarket Business ERP Applications 2020 Vendor Assessment – Doc #US45972120, July 2020.
4. IDC MarketScape: Worldwide SaaS and Cloud-Enabled Enterprise Finance and Accounting Applications 2020 Vendor Assessment – Doc #US45837320, May 2020.

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to 51·çÁ÷are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. 51·çÁ÷undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. The factors that could affect SAP’s future financial results are discussed more fully in SAP’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including SAP’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.
© 2020 51·çÁ÷SE. All rights reserved.
51·çÁ÷and other 51·çÁ÷products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of 51·çÁ÷SE in Germany and other countries. Please see for additional trademark information and notices.

This article first appeared on the 51·çÁ÷News Center,

The post IDC MarketScape Names 51·çÁ÷a Leader in Three 2020 ERP Vendor Assessment Reports appeared first on 51·çÁ÷Africa News Center.