SAP HANA is an in-memory RDBMS that has revolutionized how businesses process & process large volumes of data.
As more and more organizations adopt SAP HANA, they are faced with a critical decision: whether to opt for a Greenfield or Brownfield implementation approach.
In this blog, we will delve into the differences between these two approaches and help you decide which one is best suited for your organization.
What is Greenfield Implementation?
A Greenfield implementation is a fresh start, where a new SAP HANA system is built from scratch, with no existing system to consider.
This approach involves designing and implementing a new system architecture, configuring the system, and migrating data from non-SAP or other SAP systems that are not running on HANA.
A Greenfield implementation is ideal for organizations that:
- Just starting with SAP and want to start with a clean slate
- Want to take advantage of the latest SAP HANA features and functionalities
- Requires consolidation of multiple systems into a unified platform
- Need high customization to meet specific business needs
What is Brownfield Implementation?
A Brownfield implementation involves upgrading or migrating an existing SAP system to SAP HANA, while minimizing disruptions to the business.
It requires careful planning & execution to ensure existing systems are properly converted, and data is migrated successfully.
A Brownfield implementation is suitable for organizations that:
- Already using SAP and want to leverage their existing investments
- Need to reduce the risk and cost associated with a new implementation
- Want to preserve their existing customizations and configurations
- Require a faster time-to-value, as the existing system is already stabilized
Key Differences between Greenfield and Brownfield Implementation
Here are the main differences between Greenfield and Brownfield implementation approaches:
| Greenfield | Brownfield | |
| Existing System | No existing system | Existing SAP system |
| System Architecture | New design and implementation | Upgrade or migration of existing system |
| Data Migration | Data migration from non-SAP systems or other SAP systems | Data migration from existing SAP system |
| Customization | High degree of customization possible | Limited customization possible |
| Risk | Higher risk due to new implementation | Lower risk due to existing system knowledge |
| Cost | Higher cost due to new implementation | Lower cost due to leveraging existing investments |
| Time-to-Value | Longer time-to-value due to new implementation | Faster time-to-value due to existing system stabilization |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Approach
Greenfield Implementation Advantages:
- Ability to take advantage of the latest SAP HANA features and functionalities
- High degree of customization is possible
- Opportunity to redesign business processes and optimize system architecture
Greenfield Implementation Disadvantages:
- Higher risk due to new implementation
- Higher cost due to new implementation
- Longer time-to-value due to new implementation
Brownfield Implementation Advantages:
- Lower risk due to existing system knowledge
- Lower cost due to leveraging existing investments
- Faster time-to-value due to existing system stabilization
Brownfield Implementation Disadvantages:
- Limited customization possible
- May require significant effort to clean up existing system data and configurations
- May not be able to take full advantage of the latest SAP HANA features and functionalities
Recommendation
We recommend that organizations consider the following:
- Consider a Greenfield implementation if you are new to SAP or want to start with a clean slate.
- If you have an existing SAP system and want to minimize risk and cost, consider a Brownfield implementation.
- If you are still deciding, consider a hybrid approach that combines elements of both Greenfield and Brownfield implementations.
By carefully evaluating your options and choosing the right implementation approach, you can ensure a successful SAP HANA implementation that meets your business needs and sets you up for success in the digital age.
Additionally, you can get expert SAP consulting and implementation services at PPN Solutions.
