1. Platform & Architecture:

• HCM ECC:

  • Runs on SAP ECC (AnyDB: Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, etc.)

  • Traditional client-server architecture

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Runs only on SAP HANA database

  • In-memory, simplified data model

2. Performance:

• HCM ECC:

  • Slower processing for large HR datasets

  • Batch-based payroll and reporting

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Faster payroll runs and analytics

  • Real-time data processing

3. User Interface:

• HCM ECC:

  • SAP GUI–based

  • Limited user experience

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • SAP Fiori UI

  • Role-based, mobile-friendly, intuitive

4. Data Model:

• HCM ECC:

  • Complex tables and aggregates

  • Redundant data storage

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Simplified tables

  • No aggregates or indices → better performance

5. Analytics & Reporting:

• HCM ECC:

  • Traditional reports (ALV, BW dependent)

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Embedded analytics

  • Real-time dashboards using CDS views

6. Integration:

• HCM ECC:

  • Limited integration with modern cloud apps

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Seamless integration with:

    • SuccessFactors

    • SAP Analytics Cloud

    • SAP BTP

7. Custom Code:

• HCM ECC:

  • Extensive custom ABAP code

• S/4HANA HCM

  • Requires custom code adaptation

  • Encourages standardization and clean core

8. Deployment Options:

• HCM ECC:

  • On-premise only

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • On-premise

  • Private cloud (RISE with SAP)

9. SAP Strategy & Future:

• HCM ECC:

  • End of mainstream maintenance: 2027

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • SAP’s strategic platform going forward

  • Long-term innovation support

10. Functional Scope:

• HCM ECC:

  • Full traditional HCM suite (PA, OM, PY, TM, etc.)

• S/4HANA HCM:

  • Core HR remains

  • Strategic focus shifting toward SuccessFactors for talent & HR cloud

Summary Table: