Software Development: Q2factory

In an ideal world, companies use the SAP standard to map their business processes, adapting it exclusively through customizing to fit their individual requirements. While this “ideal world” is rarely a reality for understandable reasons, it is often observed that “standards” in productive SAP systems are barely recognizable. The consequences of excessive custom programming are well known: expensive and lengthy projects, poor maintainability, limited release and upgrade compatibility, difficult troubleshooting, and knowledge concentrated in just a few individuals. Worst of all, at a certain point, SAP customers become cut off from innovation—potentially leading to a significant competitive disadvantage in the medium term.

Manageable complexity and access to innovation through regular system upgrades are key to achieving sustainable business benefits with an SAP system. This can be ensured if clear guidelines are established from the initial SAP implementation and maintained throughout operations. These guidelines should safeguard “the standard” while restricting custom programming to legally required or business-critical functionalities. Additionally, approved reports, interfaces, conversions, enhancements, forms, and workflows (RICEFW) must align with the “Clean Core” principle. This approach ensures that extensions are only made under specific conditions and with defined technologies, preserving the system’s release and upgrade capability. The SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) plays a crucial role in this strategy.

Complex and costly program enhancements can often be avoided through organizational or process adjustments. At Q2factory, we take a business process-oriented approach—even when evaluating individual requirements and implementing custom extensions. When designing and implementing SAP extensions, we rely on the latest technology in full compliance with the “Clean Core” principle.

The greatest value for our customers during an SAP implementation does not come from executing everything that is technically possible but rather from focusing on what is truly necessary.

Do you need custom extensions for your SAP system but want to approach this strategically, considering organizational and process alternatives? We look forward to hearing from you!