SAP HCM and SuccessFactors Integration: A Bridge to a Unified HR Ecosystem

Companies worldwide embrace cloud-based solutions to streamline their Human Resources (HR) operations. SAP, a leader in enterprise software, provides two robust HR solutions:

• SAP HCM (Human Capital Management): SAP’s long-standing on-premise HR solution offers comprehensive functionality.
• SAP SuccessFactors: SAP’s cloud-based Human Experience Management (HXM) suite is designed to focus on employee engagement and continuous improvement.

Integrating SAP HCM with SuccessFactors offers a hybrid approach that combines the best of both worlds, optimizing HR processes and delivering enhanced employee experiences.

Why Integrate SAP HCM and SuccessFactors?

Here are compelling reasons to consider this integration:

• Centralized HR Data: Integrate master data, such as employee records and organizational structures, for a single, reliable source of truth across your HR landscape.
• Streamlined HR Processes: Synchronize employee and organizational data, eliminating manual data entry, reducing errors, and boosting efficiency in core HR operations.
• Enhanced Employee Experience: Deliver a consistent employee experience across the organization with access to best-in-class talent management features from SuccessFactors alongside robust core HR functionalities in SAP HCM.
• Modular adoption: Gradually transition selected HR functions to SuccessFactors while retaining mission-critical processes in SAP HCM. This reduces risk and allows for a smooth adaptation.
• Leverage the Best of both worlds: Benefit from SAP HCM’s established capabilities in payroll and time management while capitalizing on SuccessFactors’ innovations in talent management, performance management, and employee engagement.

Key Integration Scenarios

• Employee Data Synchronization: Keep employee records aligned with the bi-directional data transfer between SAP HCM and SuccessFactors.
• Organizational Structure Replication: Ensure seamless organizational structure changes are reflected across both systems.
• Compensation Management: Integrate compensation data from SAP HCM to SuccessFactors for efficient performance and rewards processes.
• Talent Management: Bridge the gap by transferring employee qualifications and career development information to enable succession planning and other talent management processes in SuccessFactors.

Integration Methods

There are primarily two ways to achieve integration:

• Middleware: Using a middleware platform like SAP Process Integration/Orchestration (PI/PO) or third-party solutions allows for real-time or scheduled data transfer and customization.
• Pre-packaged Integration Content: SAP offers standard integration scenarios via the Integration Add-On for SAP ERP HCM and SuccessFactors HCM Suite. These provide out-of-the-box configurations for standard integration use cases.

Considerations Before Integration

• Data Mapping: Dedicate time to thoroughly understanding data models and field mappings in both systems to ensure data integrity.
• Change Management: Communicate effectively with stakeholders and users across your organization about the integration and its impacts on processes.
• Technical Expertise: Consult with SAP experts or experienced system integrators to guide you through the technical implementation process.

Conclusion

Integrating SAP HCM and SuccessFactors creates a powerful hybrid HR solution. By synchronizing data and processes, you establish a streamlined HR environment that delivers greater efficiency, improved decision-making, and a more engaging employee experience.