SAP Application Management Services (AMS) providers vary massively in size, from small, boutique organisations through to global system integrators (SIs). Each option comes with its own set of benefits and considerations. The ideal choice comes down to a number of factors, including:
- The size of your own organisation.
- The expertise within your own internal centre of excellence.
- Your strategic goals.
- The level of personalisation you require.
- Where your operations are based.
- Required hours of operation.
- The level of support, flexibility and expertise you require.
Larger providers usually have a more extensive pool of SAP expertise spanning a wide range of functional and technical areas, with a mix of onshore, offshore and often nearshore resources. This also means they can typically offer a wider range of services and are likely to be able to support your whole SAP landscape, with a mix of delivery options. Lots of larger providers, especially SIs, operate globally, so can be a great option for supporting your end-to-end processes if you yourself operate across multiple countries and time zones. Additionally, many businesses feel reassured by the idea of working with a big-name provider that has an established reputation.
While working with a large SAP AMS provider comes with advantages, their processes could prove too standardised for those that prefer a more agile, personalised and consultative approach. Furthermore, their skillset, while broad, may lack deep expertise in certain areas, so it is always worth investigating whether a partner can adequately support the areas that are key to your operation.
Smaller SAP AMS partners, on the other hand, are more likely to specialise in certain processes, modules or industries. This is ideal if there are certain areas which underpin your operation that you require best-of-breed support in. They also tend to prioritise building strong partnerships and tailoring their services to meet individual needs, which can make them an excellent choice for businesses that value flexibility and a personal touch. For instance, they are typically more willing to go the extra mile, offering informal assistance and avoiding rigid processes which can be a hallmark of larger firms.
However, it is worth considering that these partners may lack the breadth of resources and global reach of their larger counterparts. Therefore, if you have an extensive, highly complex SAP environment, or if you need a large volume, commodity-based delivery model, then a smaller provider alone may not have the full capacity to support your solution.
A great option can be to use a blended, multi-partner approach to benefit from the advantages of different size and specialised partners while avoiding the drawbacks. For example, you could have a large provider in place to support the majority of your operation, then use a boutique, specialised partner, or partners, to support the areas that truly underpin your business, working closely with you on a long-term basis to deliver continuous improvement and adapt as your business evolves.
Ultimately, the ideal SAP AMS partner strategy depends on your specific needs and circumstances. By carefully considering your priorities and doing your research, you can make sure you choose the SAP AMS partner that best aligns with your long-term needs and ensure you get a return on investment from your solution.
Read our full guide on key areas to consider when choosing an SAP AMS partner here. Get in touch to discuss your current setup and requirements, and find out more about how our SAP AMS can benefit your operations and long-term SAP strategy.