Financial software firm Basware faces escalating conflicts between CFOs and CIOs as the looming deadline for SAP migration approaches.
May 28, 2025
Companies face compliance risks and financial uncertainties as they navigate ERP migrations, particularly those moving to SAP S/4HANA, according to an analysis by Basware. CFOs and CIOs are grappling with budget constraints and prioritizing allocations, as the deadline for SAP S/4HANA migration fast approaches in 2027.
Approximately 61% of SAP customers using older Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have not yet licensed S/4HANA, representing a significant transformation and a potential $100bn opportunity for companies to modernize their systems, streamline operations, and enhance compliance.
In light of global economic uncertainty, enterprises are under pressure to scrutinize every dollar of spend, causing tension between CFOs and CIOs. Mark McCarthy, CRO of Basware, stated, "For some, SAP S/4HANA is just a technology migration. But forward-thinking enterprises are taking the opportunity to drive real, wide-scale transformation, focusing on ROI, simplifying their ERP landscape, and establishing a clean digital core."
The SAP S/4HANA migration can cost large enterprises upwards of $100 million, rising to $500 million depending on the complexity and size of the organization. These projects span multiple years and involve significant resources, leading to potential financial risks for CFOs.
Meanwhile, CIOs face challenges like outdated systems, poor data quality, resulting in errors and inefficiencies. However, there is a growing consensus among CFOs to invest more in artificial intelligence (AI) to automate critical financial processes. According to Basware's data, 75% of CFOs advocate for increased AI investment for e-invoicing compliance and regulation.
To help enterprises navigate ERP migrations, Deloitte and Basware have expanded their partnership, creating a new practice-based Center of Excellence. This collaboration aims to accelerate digital finance transformation and ensure ERP migration projects are completed before the 2027 deadline.
Some companies, including healthcare wellness company Empire Portfolio Group, materials manufacturer KION, and industrial minerals producer Imerys, are prioritizing the 2027 migration deadline. Christophe Boden, VP of Shared Services and Continuous Improvement at Imerys, said, "Basware emerged as the ideal solution provider to digitize our AP (accounts payable) operations and drive process efficiencies."
North American manufacturing giant Mauser also overhauled its accounts payable operations in preparation for the upcoming deadline. By integrating Basware with its existing SAP ERP system, Mauser streamlined invoice processing, reducing manual touchpoints, and enhancing compliance.
As the great SAP migration continues, McCarthy emphasized the importance of aligning finance and IT around outcomes that matter. "Every month of delay brings greater compliance risk, uncertainty, and escalating costs," he added. "Forward-thinking enterprises are acting now – extending their ERP strategy with specialist solutions that align to SAP's clean core principles."
With Basware, companies can manage invoice transactions, ensuring end-to-end efficiency, compliance, and control. They serve over 6,500 customers globally and are trusted by industry leaders like DHL, Heineken, and Sony. Fueled by 40 years of specialized expertise, Basware is pioneering the next era of finance.
- Cloud-based solutions for e-invoicing compliance and regulation, like those offered by Basware, are becoming increasingly popular among CFOs, who advocate for increased investments in artificial intelligence (AI).
- Technological advancements in finance, such as SAP's S/4HANA and specialized solutions from providers like Basware, are crucial for businesses seeking to modernize their systems, streamline operations, and ensure compliance within the industry.
- As companies navigate ERP migrations, particularly those moving to SAP S/4HANA, they must address both the financial risks posed by the migration's cost and complexity, as well as the technical challenges presented by outdated systems and poor data quality.
