We know that many factors play into completing a successful SAP S/4HANA implementation. We also know that there are often bumps in the road—both expected and unexpected—along the way.

In this three-part series, we uncover the common factors that lead to failed projects, what steps an organization can take to avoid them, and how to plan for better decision-making. ASUG News sat down with John Belden, project execution audit practical lead at UpperEdge, an organization that helps customers negotiate their deals with SAP and system integrators (SI).

John has more than 30 years of experience implementing SAP systems. In the first part of this series, he identified common traits that can lead to a failed project and the early first steps organizations can take to avoid them. In this next part, we discuss the critical first steps an organization should take for the implementation phase. We also explainwho should be at the table and how to plan for high-level decision-making and budget expectations.

Sharon: What are the most critical first steps businesses should take before implementing SAP S/4HANA?