SAP PI/PO Replacement as a Strategic Opportunity: 10 Criteria for Choosing a Future-Proof SAP PI/PO Substitute

For years, SAP PI/PO has played a vital role in enterprise system integration. However, with support ending in 2027, many organizations are facing a major shift. How can next-generation middleware meet the growing demands of today's hybrid, cloud-based IT environments?

This blog post presents 10 proven criteria for selecting a future-proof SAP PI/PO replacement, with a focus on integrating diverse system landscapes. Particular attention is given to the benefits of collaborating with an external EDI service provider.

1. Platform Independence

An SAP-independent approach prevents technological lock-in and provides lasting flexibility. Solutions should flexibly orchestrate data and process flows between SAP, non-SAP, cloud, and legacy systems.

Look for solutions that support common interfaces, formats, and communication protocols, such as REST, SOAP, EDIFACT, ANSI X.12, XML, X.400, OFTP2, and AS2.

2. Scalability for Growing Data Volumes

As your company grows, your solution should scale with it without requiring new hardware investments or complex reconfigurations. Scalable cloud architectures enable this automatically. Pricing models based on transaction volume, file size, or character count are unpredictable and lack a clear basis for calculation. In today's economy, these models are outdated.

3. Cloud Readiness & Hybrid Architecture Support

Modern integration solutions should be able to connect on-premises systems and cloud applications. Since a hybrid architecture is still widespread today, an EDI service provider should actively support this option.

4. Full Connectivity for B2B and A2A

An efficient solution reliably processes internal system integrations (A2A) and external partner connections (B2B). Look for flexible connectors and certified EDI capabilities to ensure smooth, reliable operations.

5. Rule Sets and Process Logic Included

Data flows require more than just transfer: they must be rule-based, enriched, and transformed. Therefore, mapping and routing engines are essential. The chosen approach is also crucial because classic 1:1 mappings can increase costs in the long term. This often results in complex implementations that require review during migration. An innovative solution is therefore characterized by flexible components and low consulting overhead.

6. Monitoring & Error Management

To relieve IT teams, external EDI providers can take over the complete management of data exchange and/or provide options that facilitate monitoring. Transparent dashboards, automatic notifications, and proactive support in case of errors can help minimize downtime. Look for automated retry mechanisms, detailed monitoring and logging, and efficient error management.

7. Compliance & Data Security

A PI/PO replacement must meet modern compliance standards, such as GDPR and ISO 27001. Encryption, authentication, and safeguarding the integrity of transmitted data are essential.

8. Fast Implementation & Time-to-Value

Many EDI providers offer pre-made templates and API catalogs at this point. However, there are now providers taking new approaches.

9. Transparent Cost Model

Look for transparent pricing models. Cloud-based SaaS (Software as a Service) or iPaaS (Integration Platform as a Service) models offer high predictability and avoid the usual upfront costs associated with on-premise systems (e.g., licenses, consulting, operating fees).

10. External EDI Service as Strategic Relief

Outsourcing integration to a specialized provider is often the smarter move. A full-service EDI provider handles implementation, operations, monitoring, and evolution — all under one roof.

Advantages of an EDI service:

• Reduce the workload for the internal IT team
• Allow IT to focus on strategic topics
• Minimize operational risks
• Constant updates & compliance
• Clear SLA-based service packages
• Global integration capability

SAP PI/PO Replacement as a Strategic Opportunity

The end of SAP PI/PO support provides an opportunity to modernize your integration architecture and ensure strategic flexibility. Companies that act early and evaluate the appropriate criteria can safeguard their investments and mitigate integration risks. Those with diverse integration needs benefit most from working with an experienced EDI partner, gaining agility, reliability, and peace of mind.