Integration isn’t just about connecting systems—it’s about driving return on investment (ROI). ERP platforms like SAP S/4HANA only realize their full potential when seamlessly linked with CRM, finance, supply chain, and customer-facing systems.
The ROI of ERP Integration
Studies confirm the financial impact of integration:
- Forrester (Altivate study): 37% of companies reported new revenue growth tied to S/4HANA integration.
- Customer turnover was reduced by ~4.1% annually due to improved transparency.
- SMEs adopting integration strategies saved ~10% in operational costs over 3 years.
ROI Drivers
- Operational Efficiency
Automated data flows reduce manual reconciliation and errors. - Faster Order-to-Cash Cycles
Integrated processes cut lead times and accelerate billing. - Better Analytics
Unified data enables predictive insights, boosting sales and reducing waste. - IT Cost Savings
A clean, API-driven integration landscape reduces maintenance costs.
ROI Scenarios
| Business Type | Baseline Cost | Savings (3 yrs) | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Market Manufacturer | $2M integration overhead | $900K | 15%+ |
| Large Retailer | $10M inefficiency | $3M | >10% |
Best Practices for Integration ROI
- Prioritize revenue-impacting integrations first (finance + sales).
- Standardize architecture with APIs and middleware.
- Avoid fragile point-to-point connections.
- Track KPIs like time-to-invoice, order accuracy, and supply chain responsiveness.
So, in conclusion…
ERP integration is a growth catalyst. It cuts costs, accelerates processes, and unlocks new revenue streams. Companies that treat integration as a value driver—not just a technical project—consistently outperform.
Sources:
- Altivate – Forrester Study: ROI of SAP S/4HANA
🔗 https://www.altivate.com/blog/forrester-study-roi-of-sap-s-4hana - Altivate (TEI Report PDF) – The Total Economic Impact of SAP S/4HANA
🔗 https://www.altivate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/The-Total-Economic-Impact-Of-SAP-S4-HANA.pdf - Beacon Secure – ROI of SAP S/4HANA Integration: Is It Worth the Investment?
🔗 https://beaconsecure.co.uk/roi-of-sap-s4-hana-integration-is-it-worth-the-investment