Episode 17: An Enterprise Architects view on Clean Core - Michael Sokollek

Guest: Michael Sokollek - Chief Enterprise Architect - SAP SEHost: Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutionsJohannes Langguth - Head of Business Transformation and Architecture - SAP SEToday we dive past the buzzwords to treat Clean Core as an attitude and a practical operating model—from strategy to execution. We bust the “back-to-standard only” myth, map the five dimensions (processes, extensibility, data, integrations, operations), and show how governance and the right toolchain turn ERP from a cluttered basement into a system you can actually change.You’ll learn:Why Clean Core is a spectrum (keep clean and get clean), not a binary state.How to run fit-to-standard with process deviation management and business-case-backed exceptions.Where partners, toolchains (incl. Signavio & EA content), and RISE architects fit in.How to align capabilities and custom code to decide what truly differentiates.The real risk of shadow IT—and how to prevent it with transparency and cadence.If you’re staring at years of modifications, stuck on an S/4HANA move, or just want upgrades without nightmares, this episode gives you the guardrails, mindset, and first steps to get from talking to doing.TakeawaysClean Core is a vehicle for agility and transformation.Governance and maturity are crucial for maintaining a clean core.The dimensions of Clean Core include processes, extensibility, data, integrations, and operations.Achieving a clean core is a journey, not a quick fix.Organizations must balance efficiency with effectiveness in their processes.The business model of SAP partners should focus on delivering value, not just selling days.Tools and technology play a significant role in achieving Clean Core.Understanding the current technical debt is essential for organizations.Organizations need to connect their custom code with business capabilities.The journey towards Clean Core requires a strategic approach and continuous improvement.Follow Michael here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sokollek/Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma