Transforming FP&A Processes with SAP Datasphere and SAC Planning

Overview

The client, operates in petroleum refining, logistics, convenience stores, asphalt, and renewables, making it a key player in the energy sector across the southern and southwestern U.S. The company initiated a multi-year SAP S/4HANA transformation program to modernize operations and streamline financial planning. Applexus played a pivotal role in transitioning the company’s legacy Excel-based FP&A processes to SAC Planning and aligning its data strategy with SAP Datasphere and Databricks Enterprise Data Platform (EDP).

Major benefits realized by our client

• Improved FP&A Efficiency: Unified planning processes in SAC have reduced manual efforts, allowing the team to focus on high-value activities.
• Enhanced Analytical Capabilities: Integrated analytics across headcount, expenses, gross margin, and P&L for better financial insights.
• Productivity Gains: Streamlined workflows and planning processes have boosted the productivity of full-time employees (FTEs).
• Alignment with Data Strategy: Ensured the data ecosystem supports current needs while being scalable for future integration of SAP Datasphere and Databricks EDP.

How We Did It

• Transition to SAC Planning: Moved Delek’s financial planning from Excel to SAP Analytics Cloud Planning, enabling structured, collaborative, and scalable FP&A processes.
• Enterprise Data Strategy Alignment: Evaluated and aligned the company’s data platform strategy, focusing on SAP Datasphere’s capabilities and its potential integration with Databricks EDP.
• Centralized Planning Processes: Consolidated data sources and planning models for headcount, expenses, gross margin, and P&L, ensuring a unified approach.
• Future-Ready Architecture: Outlined a roadmap to migrate SAP BW to SAP Datasphere, integrating seamlessly with Databricks for advanced analytics and scalability.