SAP BNAC: Six phases to implementation

There are many good reasons for introducing SAP Business Network for Asset Collaboration (SAP BNAC). But how can you ensure a successful implementation? The process can be divided into six phases.

The maintenance of technical equipment is a collaborative effort between operators, manufacturers, and service partners – information must be exchanged efficiently and reliably. Until now, this exchange has often taken place in separate systems and manually, leading to media breaks, data loss, and delays.

With SAP BNAC, SAP has created a cloud-based solution that overcomes these hurdles. It enables a collaborative network in which all parties involved – operators, OEMs, and maintenance providers – can centrally access relevant asset data and maintain it jointly. This not only simplifies collaboration, but also creates the basis for new business models such as Equipment-as-a-Service (EaaS) or predictive maintenance.

SAP BNAC: Six phases to implementation

1. Analysis and definition of processes

The first step is to thoroughly analyze the existing maintenance and asset management processes of all parties involved. Which processes work? Where are the weak points? Which processes can be optimized, replaced, or newly introduced using SAP BNAC? At the same time, it is important to check which regulatory requirements and industry standards need to be observed.

Target processes are defined based on these findings. This also clarifies the extent to which existing SAP systems can be integrated and where the extended functions of SAP BNAC come into play. It is important to have realistic project planning with clear responsibilities and milestones – ideally in the form of subprojects to maintain agility and make initial added value visible at an early stage.

Optionally, the analysis phase can be supported by a proof of concept (PoC) to clearly demonstrate the processes to the business department. It may also be useful to involve individual business partners in order to take their requirements into account at an early stage

2. Definition of asset structures

A central element of SAP BNAC is the management of digital twins of physical assets. In order to map these successfully, companies must clarify at an early stage how the asset structures should be set up, what data is required, and how much detail should be included in the information stored.

This structure is based on defined target processes, relevant standards (e.g., ISO 14224), and legal requirements. Precise definition prevents both data gaps and overload with irrelevant information. The goal is a consistent, high-quality database.

3. System integration and configuration

Once the asset structures and processes have been defined, the technical configuration is carried out within SAP BNAC. Company profiles are created, interfaces set up, and user roles assigned. It is important to create a user-friendly interface while ensuring the long-term scalability of the solution.

Even if only partial functions are implemented initially, the platform should be configured in such a way that later enhancements can be integrated smoothly. Early user feedback helps to design functions in a practical manner and build acceptance.

4. Pilot phase

In the pilot phase, SAP BNAC will initially be used on a limited basis—for example, for a selected plant type or location. This will enable real-world experience to be gained and potential weaknesses in the interaction between processes, technology, and organization to be identified.

Important findings—such as those relating to data quality, user guidance, or system availability—will be documented and recorded in a pilot summary. This will then be incorporated into the next project phases. At the same time, acceptance among end users will be strengthened, as their feedback will be actively incorporated into further development.

5. Implementation and rollout

Following the successful pilot phase, comprehensive implementation begins: based on the pilot summary, a detailed concept is developed that takes all relevant scenarios and functions into account. The final configuration of SAP BNAC is carried out, additional developments are implemented, and finally, the go-live follows.

At the same time, change management is intensified. Employees must be familiarized with the new solution through targeted training, supporting materials (e.g., tutorials, manuals), and support from key users. This is the only way to ensure a smooth, comprehensive rollout. It is also important to involve business partners in change management.

6. Business transfer and ongoing support

After go-live, the operation of the solution must be ensured – either through internal application management or an external service provider. In addition to traditional support, this also includes continuous development, installing updates, and adapting to new conditions.

The goal is stable, future-proof operation of SAP BNAC – with a support model that enables both responsiveness and innovation. Companies should regularly evaluate how well the solution works in practice and initiate further optimizations on this basis.