SAP Business ByDesign
Cloud ERP for mid-sized companies explained simply
What is SAP Business ByDesign?
SAP Business ByDesign is an ERP solution designed for small and mid-sized companies, which SAP introduced in 2007. In contrast to traditional on-premise systems, ByDesign runs entirely in the cloud, so companies do not need their own server infrastructure. The solution covers core business and operational processes end-to-end in a single system, rather than connecting individual siloed solutions.
Who is SAP Business ByDesign designed for?
SAP Business ByDesign is aimed primarily at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are looking for a complete ERP solution but do not want to build their own IT department to run complex systems. This includes internationally active midmarket companies with subsidiaries in several countries.
The Key Functional Areas
SAP Business ByDesign maps core business processes in one integrated system:
- Finance & Controlling: Accounting, reporting, liquidity planning
- Sales & Customer Management (CRM): Quotes, sales orders, customer relationships
- Procurement & Supplier Management: Purchase order management, supplier evaluation
- Project Management: Planning, resources, time and cost tracking
- Human Resources: Master data, time recording, organizational processes
Current Developments: What Is Happening to SAP Business ByDesign?
Since 20 April 2026, SAP Business ByDesign is no longer sold to new customers, and the solution has been removed from the official price list. For existing customers, nothing changes for now: current contracts continue to run, and security updates and legally required adjustments will still be provided. There is currently no specific date for a complete end of support, but the market is already discussing when and how SAP might take this step.
What is clear is that SAP is increasingly focusing its strategy on SAP Cloud ERP. Companies that work with ByDesign today would be well advised to consider their options early, even though there is no acute pressure to act at present.
Conclusion
SAP Business ByDesign remains usable for existing customers for the time being. However, SAP's strategic direction clearly shows where things are heading. Companies that review their ERP strategy early gain time and room to maneuver for the future.
Supporting Your ERP Strategy
The discontinuation of new sales of SAP Business ByDesign raises questions about long-term ERP strategy for many companies. What impact does this development have on your own system landscape? Which alternatives are an option? And when is the right time to consider a possible move to SAP Cloud ERP?
CONSILIO helps you answer these questions. Together, we develop a clear basis for decision-making, evaluate possible courses of action, and create an individual ERP roadmap for your company. This gives you planning certainty and allows you to tackle the next steps in a structured way, with your business goals in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will SAP Business ByDesign be shut down?
No, not at present. SAP has only stopped selling to new customers as of 20 April 2026. Existing customers continue to receive support, maintenance, and security updates. No official end-of-support date has been communicated so far. However, it is very likely that an end of support will be announced in the future, as SAP's strategic focus is on SAP Cloud ERP.
What is the difference between SAP Business ByDesign and SAP Cloud ERP?
SAP Cloud ERP (Public Cloud) is actively being developed further by SAP and is the strategic future solution for cloud ERP in the midmarket. SAP Business ByDesign has been considered "feature complete" for several years now and is essentially only being maintained, no longer expanded functionally.
