SAP ECC is being phased out - and sooner than many people think. The maintenance freeze for classic ECC systems has been announced for 2027, extended until 2030 at the latest. This means no security updates, increasing risks and, above all, a competitive disadvantage due to outdated ERP architectures. Companies that act now can use the change as a strategic advantage - and not just migrate their systems, but modernize them.
Cloud as an opportunity, not a compulsory exercise.
The transformation of SAP architectures to the cloud is more than just a technical project. Hyperscalers such as AWS offer scalable infrastructure, flexible cost models and innovative services for data & AI, IoT and automated processes. Moving from ECC to a modern cloud landscape opens the door to faster release cycles, lower upgrade costs, less complexity and an architecture that is truly future-proof.
SAP has fundamentally changed its ERP strategy. The endpoint for customers is the S/4HANA Cloud, public edition - with extensions on the Business Technology Platform or hyperscalers such as AWS.
From the old ERP to the intelligent cloud future.
A common misconception: cloud transformation does not mean moving everything to BTP. Side-by-side models and API-based extensions make it possible to keep existing core systems lean and implement innovations and company-specific solutions flexibly on BTP, AWS or other platforms. Not only can company-specific processes be implemented efficiently, but IoT scenarios, machine learning or data lakes can also be realized - without unnecessarily bloating the ERP.
Use funding, avoid risks.
There are currently attractive funding programs from SAP and hyperscalers. If you start early, you can reduce investment costs and secure expert knowledge. Together with partners such as EBCONT and FULCRUM, a smooth transition can be achieved: from analyzing the current architecture to the proof of concept and scalable production systems.
Conclusion:
Now is the right time to take the plunge into the cloud. Not out of compulsion, but to create future-proof processes and flexible IT architectures. Companies that are still using ECC productively should make concrete plans to switch by 2025 at the latest - before time, expertise and funding become scarce.
Would you like to find out more? Experience our experts live at the Business Breakfast “SAP Ready - The Cloud Strategy for Real Transformation” on September 23, 2025 at AWS Vienna.
We will show you how to future-proof your SAP architecture in the cloud - with practical examples, insights into AWS funding and concrete strategies.