S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition vs. SAP Business ByDesign: The Ultimate Comparison

Choosing the right ERP solution is crucial for ensuring that a business stays competitive, agile,
and ready for future growth. SAP Business ByDesign (ByD) has long been a reliable choice for
small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), while SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition represents
the latest in cloud ERP innovation.

This comparison explores the key features, differences, and benefits of both solutions
providing insights to help determine which solution best fits specific business needs.

What is SAP Business ByDesign?

Introduced in 2007, SAP Business ByDesign is a cloud-based ERP solution designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ByD provides an integrated suite of applications covering core business processes like finance, sales, procurement, and project management.

Key Features of SAP Business ByDesign:

  • Modular Design: Offers scalable modules that can be deployed as needed

  • Industry-Specific Templates: Ready-to-run scenarios for various industries

  • Integrated Business Processes: Combines multiple business functions within a unified system

  • Cloud-Based Deployment: Reduces IT infrastructure requirements and supports remote access

  • Flexible Reporting and Analytics: Provides basic analytics and dashboards for business insights

SAP Business ByDesign is ideal for:

SMEs

Looking for a comprehensive, ready-to-use cloud ERP solution

Subsidiaries

Of large enterprises that need a standalone ERP system integrated with their parent company’s ERP.

Simple Operations

Businesses with less complex operations and limited need for extensive customization.

What is SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition?

Introduced in 2016, SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition is SAP’s latest cloud ERP solution, built on the powerful SAP HANA in-memory database. Launched as part of the SAP S/4HANA suite, it is designed to support real-time analytics, scalability, and continuous innovation.

Key Features of S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:

  • In-Memory Computing: Real-time data processing with SAP HANA

  • Advanced Analytics: AI-driven insights, predictive analytics, and machine learning capabilities

  • Scalability and Flexibility: Designed to grow with business needs

  • Continuous Innovation: Biannual updates ensure access to the latest features.

  • Best Practices: Pre-configured processes based on industry standards

  • Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other SAP solutions and third-party systems

SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition is best suited for:

Growing

SMEs and large enterprises needing a scalable, modern ERP system

Data-Driven

Businesses looking for real-time analytics, automation, and AI-driven insight

Innovating

Companies preparing for digital transformation and future-proofing their operations

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition vs. SAP Business ByDesign: Key Differences and Comparative Strengths

This section highlights the key differences between SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition and SAP Business ByDesign, along with the strengths and weaknesses of each solution to help determine the best fit for specific business needs.

1. Architecture and Technology

SAP Business ByDesign:
Built on a traditional cloud architecture. While effective for SMEs, it lacks the advanced real-time capabilities of modern solutions.

  • Strength: Simple and proven architecture for smaller operations.

  • Weakness: Cannot leverage in-memory computing for real-time data processing.

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:
Utilizes the SAP HANA in-memory database for real-time data processing and advanced analytics.

  • Strength: Superior performance and faster decision-making capabilities.

  • Weakness: Requires more resources and planning for implementation.

2. Scalability and Performance

SAP Business ByDesign:
Designed for SMEs and smaller subsidiaries. Scaling to larger, more complex operations may be challenging.

  • Strength: Cost-effective for businesses with predictable, moderate growth.

  • Weakness: Limited scalability for rapidly expanding companies.

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:
Built to scale with growing businesses and handle complex operations seamlessly.

  • Strength: Highly scalable, making it ideal for businesses with growth ambitions.

  • Weakness: Higher initial investment and complexity compared to ByDesign.

3. Innovation and Updates

SAP Business ByDesign:
Receives limited updates focused on maintenance and security patches.

  • Strength: Stable platform with minimal disruption from updates.

  • Weakness: Lacks new feature innovations, potentially leading to an innovation gap.

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:
Benefits from biannual updates that deliver continuous innovation and new features.

  • Strength: Access to the latest technologies like AI, machine learning, and automation.

  • Weakness: Ongoing updates may require adaptation and training.

4. Flexibility and Customization

SAP Business ByDesign:
Offers standardized, modular design with limited customization options.

  • Strength: Quick to deploy with minimal configuration effort.

  • Weakness: Less adaptable for unique business needs.

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:
Provides greater flexibility through extensibility options and tools like SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP).

  • Strength: Customizable to meet complex and evolving business requirements.

  • Weakness: Customization may add complexity and require additional expertise.

5. Integration Capabilities

SAP Business ByDesign:
Integrates with other SAP solutions and third-party systems but may require additional effort for complex integrations.

  • Strength: Suitable for basic integrations within SMEs.

  • Weakness: Limited efficiency for advanced or large-scale integrations.

S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition:
Seamlessly integrates with the SAP ecosystem (e.g., SAP SuccessFactors, SAP Ariba, SAP Analytics Cloud).

  • Strength: Robust integration capabilities for end-to-end business processes.

  • Weakness: More complex integration scenarios may need careful planning.

E-Book

Transition from SAP ByDesign to S/4HANA Cloud

Ensure a smooth transition from SAP Business ByDesign to S/4HANA Public Cloud. Learn key differences, best practices, and a step-by-step plan.

Should Smaller Businesses Invest in S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition?

When the Investment is Worth It

For businesses with ambitious growth plans, investing in SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition can provide long-term advantages. The solution offers scalability, real-time analytics, and continuous innovation, making it suitable for businesses looking to stay competitive and agile.
S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition is a good fit if:

  • There are clear growth ambitions

  • Real-time data insights and automation are needed for efficiency

  • The business can allocate the budget for a robust ERP system

When to Consider Alternatives

If a smaller business operates with predictable processes, limited growth plans, or budget constraints, SAP Business ByDesign may still be the better choice. The initial investment for S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition could strain resources if the advanced features are not fully utilized.
Consider staying with SAP Business ByDesign if:

  • The business has straightforward operations

  • Budget constraints limit the feasibility of an ERP implementation project

  • Current needs are adequately met by simpler ERP functionality

Conclusion

When comparing S/4HANA Cloud vs. SAP Business ByDesign, the choice ultimately depends on a business's current needs, growth plans, and financial capacity. While SAP Business ByDesign remains a valid option for smaller companies, S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition offers the scalability, innovation, and real-time capabilities needed for modern enterprises.

Get Clarity on Your ERP Strategy with Walldorf Consulting

Choosing the right ERP solution can shape the future of your business. Whether you're considering SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition or evaluating your current SAP Business ByDesign setup, making an informed decision is crucial.

Walldorf Consulting offers the insights and expertise needed to guide you through this process confidently.

Schedule a Consultation Today to explore the best ERP path for your business and ensure your organization is equipped for growth and innovation.

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