October 14, 2025

Explore phase in SAP public cloud projects: Fit-to-standard as a milestone

The implementation of SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud follows the SAP Activate methodology, which structures the path from preparation to go-live into clear phases. One of the most important stages on this path is the Explore phase. This is where it is decided whether an organization consistently designs its cloud journey according to best practices – or whether old patterns and individual approaches jeopardize the project's success.

The Explore phase in the project context

After the Prepare phase, in which project organization, roles and basics are defined, the Explore phase begins with the technical validation of the pre-configured best practices.

The goals of this phase are:

  • Understanding how SAP standard processes are mapped in the system
  • Identifying delta requirements that are technically necessary but not covered by the standard.
  • Documenting these requirements as requirements in SAP Cloud ALM
  • Building a prioritized backlog as a basis for the implementation phase

The focus is on the Fit-to-Standard workshops.

What is a Fit-to-Standard workshop?

The fit-to-standard approach turns the classic logic of ERP projects on its head:

  • Previously: Processes were recorded in detail and individually recreated in the system.
  • Today: Processes are shown in the pre-configured system, and the organization checks whether it can adapt its work to the standard.

A typical workshop follows this structure:

1.System demo – consultants demonstrate the relevant SAP best-practice processes live in the system.

2.Validation – Key users check whether these processes meet their requirements.

3.Delta identification – Only technically compelling deviations are included.

4.Documentation – The results are incorporated as requirements into SAP Cloud ALM and form the basis for implementation.

The goal is clear: as much standardization as possible – as little customization as necessary.

Aspiration and reality

In practice, however, it turns out that:

  • Top management is convinced of the benefits of standardization because it promises speed, scalability, and reduced complexity.
  • Key users are often skeptical and encounter resistance to this approach – typical statements include:
    • „"This is how we lose our customers."“
    • „"That's how we've always done it."“
    • „"Our area is special."“

This is precisely where it becomes clear: Fit-to-standard is not purely an IT issue, but a question of organization and culture.

The role of project management

For project managers, the Explore phase is therefore a balancing act:

  • You need to remind management of its decision to adopt Standard.,
  • at the same time listen to the specialist departments,
  • and yet have the courage to moderate discussions in line with the project goals.

Without consistent support from management, the project risks fizzling out in special cases and individual solutions.

Success factors for the Explore phase

To achieve fit-to-standard compliance, more than just workshops within the system are needed:

1.Clear communication
Why do we rely on standard solutions? What advantages does this bring – in the short and long term?

2.Change Management
Resistance is normal. What's important is to address it and channel it constructively through context and transparency.

3.Integration
Key users need to experience that their assessments are heard and taken seriously – even if not every requirement is implemented.

4.Management support
Without clear and consistent support from company management, any standardization strategy becomes diluted.

 

Conclusion

The Explore phase is not merely a methodological intermediate step, but the moment when organizations prove how serious they are about the public cloud.

  • Are best practices accepted – or merely seen as a mandatory exercise?
  • Is there the courage to consistently implement standard processes?
  • Is investment being made not only in technology, but also in communication, training, and cultural change?

Those who answer these questions positively create the foundation for a successful project – quickly, scalably and sustainably.

Daniel Nurzai, Managing Partner

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