The right implementation strategy will ensure that you are better prepared, able to maintain focus on the original scope of your project and guarantee that your staff is properly trained and prepared. TPA Serbia accounting team can help you avoid mistakes with localization, data migration and user training.
Prerequisites/initial phase
SAP implementation strategy is, in most, defined by the initial approach of the client – all functions go live simultaneously on the present date or SAP is introduced “in segments” over time. Given that usual prerequisites are CoA mapping and accommodating already developed accounting procedures of the client to the domestic guidelines, not to mention necessity for more than one SAP module (e.g. FI and MM) and users training, it would be recommended, when possible, to transfer the company’s business into SAP partially and gradually.
The initial phase is focused on preparing the project (initial planning) and developing the vision of how the SAP will handle all the business’s activities. Cooperation between SAP consultants and accounting department is essential for the actual realization phase. Being clear on the accounting requirements is crucial for configuration of SAP and development of the additional interfaces.
Localization
One of the first tasks performed by accountants is mapping of local CoA with SAP CoA. As Serbian Law on Accounting prescribes Rulebook on the chart of accounts and content of the accounts that are applied for preparation of annual financial statements, SAP needs to contain Serbian accounts, so that local legislation is met. For group reporting purposes, group accounts should be available in SAP as well.
Important scope of localization is:
- Development of VAT records in SAP – accounting department identifies business transactions of the company and accordingly, prepares a specification of tax indicators and relevant GL accounts, aiming that extraction of correct VAT records/VAT return from SAP is achieved.
- Asset management – creation of fixed asset register in SAP. Accountants give valuable information about tax depreciation rates, i.e. classify assets in tax groups, as prescribed by Rulebook on classification of assets.
Data migration process
Special attention is given to the data migration process. The initial planning of the project should not only allow enough time for this step, but also set its start date as early as possible due to the complexity and expected halts. All the data from the old software should be adapted before migration. Also, new data should be added if it is required by SAP. After upload to the test environment (SAP quality), accounting department reviews and confirms the correctness of trial balance. Upon confirmation, data is uploaded to SAP production environment.
Precondition for going live or activating production system is also detailed testing that needs to be performed by SAP consultants and accountants. Additionally, all the key users should go through a training program and be introduced to a well thought out plan of SAP activities they will be executing.
After initial start, system performances are monitored by the support team so that they can provide fixes for any issues arising from the daily use.
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