Migration Path Recommendation

Evaluation of migration approaches — adjust priorities to see how the recommendation shifts

Decision Criteria Weighting

Adjust criteria weights to reflect Agilent's priorities — scores and recommendation update in real time
Total weight: 100%
8.0
RECOMMENDED
Greenfield (New Implementation)
Highest weighted score across current criteria priorities.

Weighted Score Comparison

Detailed Scoring Matrix

CriterionWeightBrownfieldGreenfieldSelective

Migration Path Details

Brownfield (System Conversion)

Convert existing ERP system in-place to S/4HANA, preserving customizations and historical data.

Advantages
  • Preserves historical data and transactions
  • Lower data migration effort
  • Familiar system for end users
Disadvantages
  • Carries forward technical debt and custom code
  • Limited opportunity for process redesign
  • Higher ongoing maintenance cost

Greenfield (New Implementation)

Build a completely new S/4HANA system from scratch with standard processes.

Advantages
  • Clean core from day one
  • Full process redesign opportunity
  • Best long-term TCO
  • AI/ML ready architecture
Disadvantages
  • Highest upfront cost and risk
  • Longer implementation timeline
  • Historical data requires archival strategy
  • Steeper change curve

Selective Data Transition

Hybrid approach: new system with selective migration of master data and open items.

Advantages
  • Balance of clean core and data continuity
  • Selective process redesign
  • Moderate risk profile
Disadvantages
  • Complex scoping decisions
  • Potential for inconsistent data quality
  • Requires strong data governance

Recommended Platform: RISE with SAP (Private Edition)

Why RISE Private Edition

  • Enterprise control: Dedicated tenant with full administrative access
  • Regulatory compliance: GxP validation framework compatibility
  • Hybrid flexibility: On-premise-like control with cloud economics
  • Integration: SAP BTP for extensions, keeping core clean
  • AI-ready: SAP Business AI and Joule integration path

Why Not Public Cloud

  • Limited configurability for Agilent's complex manufacturing processes
  • Quarterly forced upgrades incompatible with GxP validation cycles
  • Insufficient control over data residency requirements

Why Not On-Premise

  • Higher TCO due to infrastructure management
  • Slower access to SAP innovation (AI, analytics)
  • SAP strategic direction is cloud-first