Richter+Frenzel employs around 4,500 people and centrally manages its payroll for more than 520 HR departments. Against this backdrop, stability in the HR system is of paramount importance. The goal of the project was therefore not a functional redesign of the HR processes, but rather a technical modernization of the system foundation. The starting point was a technologically outdated SAP HCM version. At the same time, the company had embarked on its strategic path to the cloud by signing a RISE contract. The HR system was deliberately chosen as the entry point to test cloud operations initially with a manageable system.
Prior to the project, an SAP readiness check analyzed the landscape of the existing system. This revealed that the HR system had remained largely based on the SAP standard for many years. This starting point allowed for a brownfield transition approach, in which the existing system was adopted and technically modernized. Implementation took place in clearly structured project phases aligned with the monthly payroll cycle. A phased system strategy with development, test, and production systems, as well as an additional sandbox environment, ensured that ongoing HR operations always remained secure.
In addition to the technical transition, the operating model also played a key role. With the introduction of RISE, processes in system operation changed, for example, regarding technical adjustments or infrastructure issues. While FIS was responsible for implementing the H4S4 transition, FIS-ASP supports operations in the RISE environment and coordinates with SAP. For the HR departments, day-to-day work deliberately remained unchanged. Processes, payroll, and the system interface were not redesigned but continued to operate stably. The added value of the project lies primarily in the future-proofing of the HR system landscape and in the experience gained for future cloud projects.
“Trust is crucial, especially during a transition like this – and it was there,” says Manuel Mayer, Head of IT Integration Management & HR Systems at Richter+Frenzel.
With the modernized HR infrastructure, the company is simultaneously laying the foundation for further developments in the HR area. This includes the planned use of SAP SuccessFactors to further digitize HR processes such as recruiting, onboarding, and self-service.
