SAP has always had difficulty obtaining accurate measurements from customers’ non-SAP applications, so one answer to this question is that it certainly provides a more transparent model that customers will arguably find easier to understand. And let’s be frank, it also provides SAP with an easier way to monetize this sometimes contentious licensing rule.
However, the short answer is the cloud. SAP is noting that automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are becoming central to many businesses, and AI-run workflows created a strange limbo within their legacy licensing structure. Right now, SAP has no clear guidance on how to estimate costs for this technology.
With the Digital Access pricing structure, SAP will be able to account for these new workflows as well as any use of SAP coming from non-SAP applications - whether by human interaction or, as is increasingly the case, IoT, bots, AI etc.
This means that businesses need to evaluate their current software environment and SAP output before they even consider taking advantage of the Digital Access Adoption Program. Instead of choosing between the two options presented by SAP, consumers need to consider three options – with the last option being non-participation in the DAAP and Digital Access license model.
For some businesses, the DAAP is not an advantageous choice. While their costs may fall in the short term, they could end up paying more once their business moves into the digital world. So, before determining whether you should take advantage of the DAAP, you should assess your current software environment, your cloud and digitalization roadmaps, future demand, and the current output of your SAP deployment. This is a lot to ask in just a few weeks – and organizations may not be able to take this on without third-party assistance.