In which implementation phase does data load preparation occur?

The preparation for data loading primarily occurs during the "Prepare" phase of an SAP implementation project. This phase focuses on gathering and organizing the necessary data that will be used in the system. In the context of SAP S/4HANA implementations, the "Prepare" phase is crucial as it sets the foundation for subsequent activities.

During this phase, data is analyzed, cleaned, and structured to ensure it aligns with the requirements of the new system. Various activities, such as defining data models, identifying data sources, and establishing data migration strategies, take place. This thorough preparation is essential for a seamless transition to the new system, minimizing issues that could arise during data migration.

While the "Explore" phase involves understanding business processes and requirements, it does not focus specifically on data loading preparations. Similarly, the "Realize" phase involves the actual system configuration and development, while the "Deploy" phase is concerned with putting the system into a production environment and managing any cutover activities. Thus, the preparation of data loads is fundamentally aligned with the objectives of the "Prepare" phase.