SAP Rise

RISE with SAP Tiers and July 2025 Premium Packaging Changes

RISE with SAP Tiers

RISE with SAP Tiers and July 2025 Premium Packaging Changes

SAP’s RISE with SAP offering provides a tiered path for enterprises to move their ERP to the cloud. It originally came in Base, Premium, and Premium Plus packages, each adding more tools and services.

In mid-2025, SAP rebranded the Premium tier as SAP Cloud ERP Private and discontinued Premium Plus, unbundling its advanced AI and sustainability features into optional add-ons.

CIOs and CTOs must understand these tiers and the recent changes to manage costs and contract terms effectively as they modernize their SAP landscape.

RISE with SAP: A Tiered Cloud Transformation Offering

RISE with SAP is SAP’s all-in-one subscription service for digital transformation, bundling SAP S/4HANA Cloud (ERP software), cloud infrastructure, and managed services under a single contract.

The goal is to simplify the transition from on-premise SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA Cloud by incorporating technical migrations, process improvement tools, and cloud hosting in a single package.

This offering appeals to CIOs who want SAP to take responsibility for running the system in the cloud, with a single subscription covering software licenses, hosting, and technical support.

Initially, SAP introduced multiple packaging tiers for RISE with SAP S/4HANA Cloud, private edition (single-tenant).

These tiers – Base, Premium, and Premium Plus – enable organizations to select the level of support and the number of additional cloud services they desire.

All tiers include the core S/4HANA Cloud ERP and basic infrastructure, but higher tiers add more value-added components.

Below is an overview of these packages and their key inclusions:

Feature / ComponentBasePremiumPremium Plus (discontinued)
S/4HANA Cloud (Private Edition core)✔️✔️✔️
SAP Build Work Zone (enterprise sites)✔️✔️✔️
Group Reporting (financial consolidation)✔️✔️✔️
SAP Signavio process analysis tools✔️✔️
SAP BTP credits & extension tools (SAP Build)✔️✔️
Advanced finance add-ons (cash mgmt, receivables, etc.)✔️
SAP Analytics Cloud (planning capabilities)✔️
Supplier Portal (SAP Business Network integration)✔️
Sustainability management (SAP “Green Ledger” tools)✔️
Generative AI assistant (SAP Joule AI)✔️
Data warehouse (SAP Datasphere)✔️

Table: Key bundled components in RISE with SAP packages by tier (before 2025 changes). All packages include the core ERP; higher tiers add the listed tools and services.

As the table shows, Base is a bare-bones package, Premium builds in transformation and integration tools, and Premium Plus (previously available) includes the latest innovations, such as AI, advanced finance, and sustainability solutions.

This tiered approach enables enterprises to select a bundle tailored to their specific needs in terms of complexity and innovation.

Base Package: Core Cloud ERP with Minimal Extras

The Base edition of RISE with SAP is designed for organizations that want a straightforward move to S/4HANA Cloud with minimal frills.

It includes the essentials to run your ERP in a private cloud but little beyond that. In practice, the Base package provides:

  • Core S/4HANA Cloud (Private Edition) – the digital core ERP system covering finance, logistics, sales, etc., deployed on SAP’s cloud infrastructure.
  • Basic Tools – a limited set of included tools such as SAP Build Work Zone for creating internal launchpads/sites and basic Group Reporting for financial consolidation.
  • Standard Infrastructure & Support – Hosting is typically in an SAP data center with standard SLAs. The base often only supports smaller “T-shirt sizes” (resource tiers) and may restrict the choice of hyperscalers (Azure/AWS) as the provider.

Who is it for?

Base works for less complex organizations or those in regions where SAP’s multi-tenant public cloud isn’t available. It’s a lean option, suited for companies that mainly need the ERP and will separately handle any process analysis or extensions.

For example, a mid-market manufacturer with straightforward processes might choose Base to minimize cost, then add specific capabilities later as needed.

However, the Base package has limited entitlements. It does not include transformation help, such as Signavio or any BTP (Business Technology Platform) credits for building extensions – those must be purchased separately.

Companies with significant customization or optimization goals may find Base insufficient.

Indeed, SAP has started phasing out the Base package in countries where the public cloud edition (or the newer “GROW with SAP” offering for SMBs) is mature.

In such markets, SAP prefers customers either take the full-featured package or use the multi-tenant SaaS version.

Existing Base customers have grandfathering protection through the end of 2025, but new Base RISE deals are now rare.

Read Choosing RISE or Traditional SAP Licensing: Strategic Checklist for CIOs.

Premium Package: Enhanced Tools for Transformation

The Premium edition became the default choice for most large enterprises on RISE with SAP.

It builds on the Base package by bundling in several tools and services aimed at accelerating business transformation and cloud adoption:

  • Business Process Transformation Tools: Premium includes SAP Signavio process analysis and modeling software (e.g., Process Insights, Process Manager, Collaboration Hub). These help map out current processes and identify optimization opportunities, a critical step when migrating to a “clean core” cloud system.
  • SAP Business Technology Platform Credits: The package comes with a consumption allowance (via CPEA credits) for SAP BTP services. This allows you to develop extensions, integrations, or analytics on SAP’s platform without requiring separate purchase orders upfront. For instance, you could build apps with SAP Build (low-code tools) or automate workflows with SAP Build Process Automation using the included credits.
  • Extended Cloud Services: Premium unlocks additional cloud services that Base lacks. This often includes the SAP Business Network Starter Pack (to connect with Ariba networks for procurement documents) and possibly optional integration with other cloud services. It also generally allows for more flexibility in hosting (e.g., choosing a preferred hyperscaler for the infrastructure rather than just SAP’s data centers) and supports larger system sizes.
  • Enhanced Support & Guidance: While not a full consulting engagement, Premium typically includes more hands-on guidance from SAP during setup. For example, SAP might provide extra “guardians” or experts in the first phases of the project and additional check-ins on process redesign beyond the standard technical onboarding.

Premium essentially delivers the original vision of RISE with SAP – not just moving ERP to the cloud but also providing the tools to continuously improve and innovate processes. It became the most popular tier among enterprises because it strikes a balance between cost and capability.

A real-world example:

A global consumer products firm on RISE Premium might utilize the included Signavio tools to identify customizations in their existing system that can be eliminated, thereby facilitating their adoption of standard S/4HANA processes.

They would use the bundled BTP credits to rebuild a few critical custom apps on SAP’s platform (ensuring the core ERP remains clean) and perhaps leverage the Build Process Automation to streamline some manual workflows – all included in the package price.

From a cost standpoint, SAP initially indicated that the Premium package would carry a roughly 30% higher subscription fee than the basic package due to the extra value it provides.

In practice, SAP does not publish official list prices per tier; instead, each RISE deal is individually negotiated.

Pricing is based on Full User Equivalents (FUEs) – a metric that aggregates users by type – multiplied by a rate. (For example, a professional user might be 1.0 FUE and a casual user 0.1 FUE; total cost = total FUEs × unit price.)

A typical large enterprise might require hundreds or thousands of FUEs. Illustrative scenario: If an organization requires 500 FUEs and SAP’s rate per FUE is approximately €2,000 annually for full functionality, the annual cost would be approximately €1 million.

The premium package costs can increase further if you require additional infrastructure or add-on services.

Still, they can also be offset by negotiation and expected ROI (SAP often touts that RISE can reduce TCO by ~20% compared to on-premises solutions, although results vary).

CIOs should carefully model these costs, as bundling can obscure the pricing of individual components.

Read RISE with SAP vs Traditional Licensing: Contractual Flexibility Comparison.

Premium Plus Package: Advanced Capabilities (Now Retired)

Premium Plus was the top-tier offering introduced in late 2023 as SAP began rolling out innovations in cloud ERP.

It included everything in Premium and then layered on a collection of advanced capabilities for customers that wanted the cutting edge:

  • Extended Financial Management: Premium Plus introduced new S/4HANA capabilities for finance and treasury, extending beyond the standard. This included advanced Cash Management and Receivables Management tools, as well as enhancements to group reporting data collection and integration with SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) for planning. Essentially, it gave CFOs more sophisticated functionality out of the box for forecasting, consolidation, and cash visibility.
  • Supplier Collaboration Portal: The package bundled a Supplier Portal from SAP’s Business Network (formerly Ariba). This portal facilitates enhanced collaboration with vendors for procurement, enabling features such as electronic RFQs, purchase order tracking, and invoice collaboration, all fully integrated with the ERP. In earlier packages, such procurement network features were add-ons; Premium Plus made them part of the subscription.
  • Sustainability (“Green Ledger”) Solutions: Recognizing the rise of ESG reporting, SAP included sustainability management tools in Premium Plus. Notably, SAP Sustainability Footprint Management and SAP Sustainability Control Tower were provided, which help track carbon emissions and other environmental data alongside financial data, often referred to as the “Green Ledger” concept. This was a forward-looking inclusion for enterprises aiming to link carbon accounting with their financial systems.
  • Embedded AI and Data Innovations: The hallmark of Premium Plus was its generative AI and data features. SAP’s new AI assistant (codename Joule) – essentially an AI copiloting tool across the ERP – was bundled, along with a set number of AI consumption units for using machine learning or AI services. Additionally, SAP Datasphere (their cloud data warehouse solution) was included to empower advanced analytics and a unified data layer across the business. These features positioned Premium Plus customers to experiment with AI-driven insights and enterprise data consolidation without separate licenses.

In concept, Premium Plus was for early adopters and industry leaders who wanted to push the envelope.

A large conglomerate seeking built-in AI and sustainability tracking might have opted for Premium Plus to integrate those capabilities from day one.

However, this package also significantly raised the contract value – it was effectively an upsell of many high-value extras.

SAP account teams often pitched it as enabling “future-proofing” with innovative features, but CIOs needed to ensure their organization could utilize those extras to justify the cost.

Importantly, as of mid-2025, SAP has discontinued Premium Plus. It’s no longer sold to new customers.

SAP found that bundling AI and other new tech into the subscription complicated the value proposition and potentially slowed deals (some customers balked at paying for nascent features like Joule AI that they weren’t sure about).

Instead, SAP moved to offer these advanced components à la carte.

For example, rather than receiving a pre-set amount of AI usage bundled, customers can now purchase AI services or Datasphere licenses as needed in addition to their core package.

Some existing customers with Premium Plus contracts were “grandfathered” for a period; however, moving forward, the top-tier bundle is no longer available.

2025 Packaging Changes: RISE Rebranded to Cloud ERP Private

July 2025 brought a significant shake-up in SAP’s packaging strategy for RISE with SAP. SAP rebranded and repackaged the offering to simplify the choices:

  • “Cloud ERP, private edition” is the new name for what was previously known as the Premium package. In SAP’s materials, you’ll now see the SAP Cloud ERP Private package as the main offering for single-tenant S/4HANA Cloud. This is essentially RISE Premium under a new label but with some changes in what’s included.
  • Premium Plus is discontinued entirely, as noted. No more three-tier structure – now there’s essentially one primary package (with an optional “base” variant in niche cases). SAP uses “RISE with SAP” as a general term for the transformation journey, not a specific SKU level.
  • More bundled components in the new package: SAP took the opportunity to enrich the standard Cloud ERP Private package. For instance, SAP LeanIX (an enterprise architecture analysis tool SAP acquired) is now included to help customers assess their system landscape and plan the cloud transition. Some services that were previously add-ons or only available in higher tiers are now included as part of the bundle. SAP Business Network Supplier Portal and certain Taulia solutions (working capital management) are included to provide more out-of-the-box business agility. In effect, SAP doubled the number of included SKUs in the package to add value.
  • Selective removals of previous inclusions: Despite adding some tools, SAP also removed or unbundled a few things. Notably, SAP Datasphere is no longer included by default in the new package, and the built-in AI assistant (Joule) and sustainability apps are no longer bundled. These were tied to the old Premium Plus; with that gone, SAP is treating them as optional extras. Customers can still get them but must pay separately.
  • Base package phase-out: In the 2025 revamp, SAP also announced that the low-tier RISE Base offering will be discontinued in most markets. They extended a grandfathering period for any in-progress Base deals until the end of 2025; however, it is expected that new private-cloud customers will take the full Cloud ERP package in the future. Only in “selective countries” where the multi-tenant SaaS isn’t viable will a trimmed-down private option remain available as an exception.

For CIOs and CTOs, these changes mean that the decision framework is slightly simpler (with fewer tiers to choose from), but the need for scrutiny is higher.

The rebranded package offers more components, which SAP will justify as added value; however, some of these components may not be necessary.

At the same time, the cool new features (AI, advanced analytics) are now unbundled, which could mean an additional budget ask if you require them.

There’s also a risk of confusion: for example, a year ago, you might have been quoted a Premium Plus deal that included Datasphere, and now a new quote won’t include it.

If you assumed it was still there, you could be under budget.

SAP’s spokespersons have framed the changes as providing “more flexibility” and aligning with customer needs for modernization and clean-core transformation.

In practice, it’s also a pricing strategy shift: SAP can keep the base package price attractive while upselling high-margin extras, such as AI usage, once the customer is on board.

Another noteworthy aspect is the licensing model adjustments that accompanied the packaging changes. SAP slightly tweaked its FUE user model rules in 2025, reclassifying some user roles into higher categories.

For instance, some activities that were previously counted as “functional” (cheaper) users might now require a “professional” user license (more expensive).

SAP states that these adjustments are corrections of misclassified roles and that many authorizations were downgraded to less expensive categories as well.

Regardless, it’s a reminder that SAP’s cloud licensing is not static – the definitions and included allowances can change, so enterprises must stay vigilant.

If you negotiated a specific number of AI credits or a certain user mix, ensure that these are revisited under the new rules.

Pricing and Contract Implications

The evolution of RISE packaging directly impacts how CIOs should approach contract negotiations and budgeting for SAP:

  • Subscription Cost Structure: All RISE with SAP deals are subscription-based (typically 3 to 5-year contracts) calculated on the Full User Equivalent count and resource size. The 2025 changes did not overhaul this basic model – you still pay per FUE and for the infrastructure “size” needed. What did change is what you get included in that base subscription. The new Cloud ERP Private package may have a similar base price to the old Premium. Still, since it lacks some formerly bundled items, customers may face additional line items for things they previously assumed were included. Always obtain a detailed bill of materials listing exactly what licenses and services are bundled and which are not.
  • Optional Add-Ons vs. Bundled Value: With AI, advanced planning, and sustainability tools now as add-ons, SAP has introduced new upsell opportunities mid-contract. For example, as your organization begins to explore SAP’s Joule AI assistant, SAP can offer to activate it for an extra fee or a consumption-based charge. This modular approach can be double-edged: it allows you to avoid paying for what you don’t use (good for cost control), but it also means that if an add-on becomes mission-critical, SAP retains the pricing power. Enterprises should negotiate price protections or discounts for anticipated add-ons upfront. If you foresee needing Datasphere or AI services in year 2, try to lock in terms for those now rather than after you’re committed.
  • Complexity of SKUs and Compliance: The inclusion of nearly twice as many components in the standard package means a longer list of items to track in your contract. Each component (such as LeanIX, Signavio, Build, etc.) has its usage terms. While it’s convenient to have them bundled, ensure your team understands any limitations. For instance, Signavio may have user limits, or the BTP credits may expire annually. Keep an eye on these so you derive the value you’re paying for. Likewise, with more components, there are more points for compliance audits. SAP will still enforce that you stay within the bounds of your entitlements (e.g., number of partner licenses, API calls, etc., as per contract). A proactive license management process is essential.
  • Opportunity to Re-negotiate: If you’re an existing RISE customer on an older package (especially those who were early adopters of Premium Plus), the 2025 changes present an opportunity. SAP is eager to transition customers to the new model, allowing you to negotiate a better deal during the migration. Perhaps you commit to the new Cloud ERP Private package but request certain add-ons (such as a set amount of AI credits or a complimentary trial of the sustainability tools) at no additional cost to facilitate a smooth transition. Use the fact that some capabilities were removed from bundles as leverage – e.g., “We lost X that was bundled, so we expect a concession on Y.”
  • Comparing with Alternatives: Finally, CIOs should remember that RISE with SAP is one route to S/4HANA. SAP’s packaging changes hint at a strategy to drive more customers to this route (and away from on-premise licensing). However, alternatives exist, such as licensing S/4HANA software traditionally and hosting it on your own or with a hyperscaler or opting for the public cloud edition (SaaS) if it suits your needs. The economics of RISE vs. à la carte can shift over time. With the new RISE bundle including more, its value proposition may improve; however, always conduct a side-by-side TCO comparison. In some cases, not every customer needs the full bundle, and a more custom approach could save money, especially if SAP’s bundle pricing doesn’t align with actual usage.

Recommendations

Practical steps for CIOs and CTOs navigating SAP’s RISE packages and recent changes:

  • Match the Package to Your Needs: Critically assess your requirements. Choose the package (or approach) that fits your business – don’t pay extra for unused features or unnecessary extras. For a pure technical migration, the base option (if still available) might suffice; for a major transformation, leverage the full package.
  • Demand Transparency in Quotes: Request a clear breakdown of costs by component from SAP. Ensure you understand what each element (ERP, database, BTP, analytics, etc.) contributes to the price. This will aid in negotiations and facilitate comparisons between RISE and alternative licensing models.
  • Leverage the 2025 Changes: If negotiating now, mention the recent rebranding. SAP is keen to position the new Cloud ERP Private package as added value – use that to negotiate introductory discounts or extras. For example, request some free AI usage hours or a sustainability module included for the first year.
  • Secure Future Flexibility: Lock in rights for anticipated needs. If you think you’ll need SAP Datasphere or more BTP capacity in a year, negotiate pricing and terms for those now. Avoid being in a position where you have to buy a needed add-on later at whatever price SAP dictates.
  • Monitor User Licensing Closely: The FUE model and user role definitions are subject to change. Implement processes to regularly review your SAP user assignments. Ensure that if SAP shifts a function to a higher license category, you catch it and adjust your license counts accordingly to stay compliant (and push back if it unfairly raises costs).
  • Benchmark Total Cost of Ownership: Don’t just accept SAP’s claim of cost savings – model it. Include subscription fees, implementation, partners, and support in your TCO. Compare this against keeping SAP on-prem or other cloud options. Use independent benchmarks to determine if the RISE quote aligns with your industry and size.
  • Plan for Renewal Early: RISE contracts lock you in for several years. As you approach renewal, begin discussions early (at least 12 months in advance). Use that time to evaluate if you want to stay on RISE or switch models. Early negotiations can also pressure SAP to offer better renewal terms rather than risking losing you.
  • Engage Expertise: Consider involving third-party licensing advisors or negotiation experts. SAP contracts and recent changes are complex. An outside perspective can help identify hidden risks, optimization opportunities, or negotiation leverage points (such as known discount benchmarks or forthcoming product changes).
  • Focus on Strategic Value: Keep the conversation with SAP focused on business outcomes. Tie your investment to specific results (process efficiency, faster closes, new business models). This keeps SAP’s team accountable to deliver value, and it strengthens your case if you need to negotiate concessions by showing how certain components impact your success metrics.

FAQ

Q: What exactly is included in the new “SAP Cloud ERP Private” package after 2025?
A: It includes the core S/4HANA Cloud (private edition) and a broad set of transformation and integration tools. Specifically, you receive the ERP software, infrastructure managed by SAP, and additional tools, including SAP Signavio for process analysis, SAP Build for extensions, LeanIX for landscape analysis, and SAP Business Network for supplier collaboration. Essentially, it’s equivalent to the old Premium tier, but SAP has added some components (LeanIX, etc.) to it. High-end features, such as advanced financials, AI, or sustainability tracking, are no longer included by default (these were part of Premium Plus, which has been discontinued).

Q: Why did SAP discontinue the Premium Plus tier?
A: SAP found that bundling AI, advanced analytics, and sustainability into a single high-end package was making the sales cycle more complicated and perhaps pricing some customers out. By discontinuing Premium Plus, SAP simplifies the choice (one main package) and can sell those innovative features as optional add-ons. This way, customers who need the AI or sustainability tools can purchase them, while those who don’t need them won’t be paying for them as part of a bundled package. It also allows SAP to price those features based on usage, which could potentially earn them more revenue as AI adoption grows.

Q: As a CIO, how should I approach budgeting for AI and other add-ons now?
A: Assume they will be separate line items. Engage with your SAP account representative to obtain consumption estimates for services such as Joule (AI) or Datasphere, based on your projected usage. Include a contingency in your IT budget for these services if you plan to use them. It may be wise to negotiate an enterprise agreement or cap for AI services – for example, a fixed price for a certain volume of AI queries – to avoid unexpected costs. Essentially, treat AI, analytics, and sustainability tools as services and perform a cost-benefit analysis on each, rather than assuming they’ll be covered in your base subscription.

Q: What happens to existing RISE contracts that were Premium or Premium Plus?
A: SAP is honoring existing contracts through their term. If you signed a Premium or Premium Plus deal before the change, your entitlements remain as per the contract. For Premium Plus customers, you have those extra features for now, but when your term is up for renewal, SAP will likely transition you to the new model (core package + any add-ons). SAP provided a grandfathering period until June 30, 2025, for any quotes in progress on old SKUs and for Base deals until the end of 2025. If you fall into one of these groups, work with SAP to ensure a smooth conversion. It’s essential to review your current contract – ensure that if any component is now considered an add-on, you clarify how it will be handled at renewal (you don’t want to lose functionality or be surprised by a new charge).

Q: How does RISE with SAP Private Edition compare to the Public Cloud edition (SaaS)?
A: RISE with SAP S/4HANA Cloud, public edition (the multi-tenant SaaS), offers a different approach: it’s more standardized (with less customization) and is typically sold as part of the GROW with SAP program for mid-market companies. The public edition may be cheaper in terms of pure subscription and faster to deploy. Still, it has less flexibility (you can’t modify the code and are constrained to SAP’s quarterly update schedule and best practices). The Private Edition (what we’re discussing in this article) allows for more customization and is targeted at enterprises that require their system roadmap, potentially more complex integrations, and a dedicated environment (often for regulatory or performance reasons). From a licensing perspective, Private Edition via RISE is more complex (FUE model, multiple components), whereas Public SaaS is usually simpler per-user pricing. CIOs should consider their company’s size, process uniqueness, and regulatory requirements when selecting a solution. Some smaller or less complex businesses save money with the public cloud SaaS, but many larger enterprises require the Private Edition despite the higher cost.

Q: What are the key negotiation points with SAP for a RISE contract?
A: 1) Price per FUE: This is the baseline – ensure you’re getting a competitive rate (benchmark with peers if possible). 2) bundle discounts: SAP often has wiggle room to discount the infrastructure or certain components. Push for an overall discount rather than paying the list price on each item. 3) Contract flexibilities: e.g., the right to reduce user numbers in future years or swap some SAP cloud services for others as needs change. 4) Exit and transition terms: while you hope to succeed on RISE, negotiate clarity on what happens if you decide not to renew – can you convert to on-prem licenses or extract your data easily? 5) Incentives: SAP might offer incentives (service credits, extra support, training, or funding for migration) – don’t leave those on the table. Given the 2025 changes, also negotiate any items that were removed from the bundle (such as a data warehouse); consider asking for some free DataSphere hours as compensation.

Q: With SAP now including more features in the bundle, how do I ensure we utilize all the included features?
A: This is a great point – shelfware risk is real when a package includes many components. First, conduct an internal assessment of the relevance of each included component. For example, if Signavio is included, identify a team to use it in your process discovery phase. If LeanIX is there for enterprise architecture, assign an architect to leverage it during planning. Align each tool with an initiative or owner in your organization. Additionally, ask SAP for enablement support – since you’re paying for these tools, SAP should provide onboarding sessions or tutorials to help your team get the most value from them. Set KPIs or success criteria (e.g., “by month 6, we will have analyzed 20 processes with Signavio and eliminated 10 customizations”). By treating each component as part of your transformation plan, you ensure the bundle delivers ROI instead of sitting idle.

Q: Are there any hidden costs associated with RISE on SAP that we should be aware of?
A: A few areas to watch: 1) Indirect Access – RISE includes some Digital Access documents (like a limited number of documents via Ariba network, etc.), but if you have a lot of third-party systems creating SAP documents via APIs, ensure you understand the digital access policy and fees. 2) Overage fees – If you exceed your BTP credit allotment or use more storage or capacity than planned, SAP may charge extra. Clarify the rates for any overages (and try to negotiate predictable patterns rather than surprises). 3) Upgrades to Support – The standard RISE comes with basic support, but SAP will offer Preferred Success (premium support) as an optional upgrade for an additional percentage of the subscription. Determine if you require a higher support level, and include it in your budget if so. 4) Partner costs – Not exactly SAP’s fee, but remember that implementation services (from SAP or a partner) are not included in RISE. You’ll incur substantial system integrator (SI) costs to implement S/4HANA, which can sometimes be equal to or more than the RISE subscription itself. So, budget for that and coordinate the project timeline with when RISE fees take effect (you might negotiate a ramp-up where subscription payments start when you go live rather than from contract signing).

Q: How do the 2027 ECC support deadlines factor into the decision on RISE now?
A: SAP’s 2027 deadline (and optional 2030 extended support) for legacy ECC has been a key driver for RISE uptake. If you’re still on ECC, time is ticking to move to S/4HANA. RISE with SAP is one pathway to do that with SAP’s assistance. The recent changes don’t alter the fundamental deadline, but SAP is using RISE packaging to entice customers to move sooner rather than later. In negotiations, you may see SAP more willing to strike a deal on RISE now, as they want to secure cloud revenue before the end of ECC support. Use that to your advantage – but also ensure you’re ready to move within the required timeline. If you commit to RISE, you’ll need to execute the migration project. Many CIOs are balancing the risk of staying on ECC (increased support fees and falling behind in features) versus the cost and effort of moving. The recommendation is to build your business case for S/4HANA (cloud or on-prem) sooner rather than later. If RISE with SAP aligns with your strategy (cloud-first, want one throat to choke), then the recent enhancements to the package might sweeten the deal. Just don’t let the looming 2027 date force you into a suboptimal contract – SAP needs cloud migrations as much as you need support, so negotiate a deal that makes sense for you.

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  • Fredrik Filipsson has 20 years of experience in Oracle license management, including nine years working at Oracle and 11 years as a consultant, assisting major global clients with complex Oracle licensing issues. Before his work in Oracle licensing, he gained valuable expertise in IBM, SAP, and Salesforce licensing through his time at IBM. In addition, Fredrik has played a leading role in AI initiatives and is a successful entrepreneur, co-founding Redress Compliance and several other companies.

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