Last Updated on 24. November 2025
In the new episode of Innovation Implemented, project manager Merle Best provides deep insight into the reality of large SAP S/4HANA transformations. Under the motto ‘Between timelines, turmoil and to-dos,’ she talks about how good planning, structured collaboration and realistic expectations keep complex projects on track.
Three key perspectives emerge: how to draw up realistic project plans, where things typically get turbulent – and which tools and routines help to maintain an overview even in challenging phases. A practical and honest conversation about how modern project work really works.
Listen to the podcast and join the discussion
Interview: Merle Best, Manager, mgm consulting partners
Moderator: Karsten Kneese, Marketing Manager, mgm
Length: 28 minutes
The most important points at a glance
When it comes to timelines, Merle emphasises that good planning begins with a rough framework, which is then supplemented step by step with release dates, company cycles and resource availability. Readjustments only make sense if the scope grows or structural blockers arise – but not in the case of prioritisation problems or ‘nice to haves’.
In the turmoil, Merle describes typical stumbling blocks such as insufficient coordination between IT and specialist departments, underestimated test phases, delayed data migration or scope creep, which often occurs when supposedly small changes trigger a major chain reaction. Changes should therefore always be measured in terms of their business impact – business-critical and regulatory issues belong in the project, everything else in the backlog.
The to-dos clearly show how much structure influences project success: tools such as Azure DevOps or Jira create transparency regarding requirements, dependencies, responsibilities and progress. Milestones, a clear definition of done, and regular, well-prepared meetings provide orientation over long project periods. Merle sees quality assurance as a continuous part of everyday life – for example, through design reviews, integrative coordination, system walkthroughs, and extensive testing.
Finally, she emphasises three success factors:
- a stable set of routines and transparency,
- honest reporting without ‘watermelon status’
- and composure in dealing with the changes that every project inevitably brings.
Further information
- The podcast episode mentioned at the beginning on the topic of ‘Success factor project management in S/4HANA transformations’
- All information about the consulting services of mgm consulting partners
