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    SAP
    Audit Defense

    Defend against SAP audit claims.

    For organizations that have received an SAP audit notice or expect a license review. We help you understand your named-user, indirect-access and contract position before you share audit data. Start with a conversation about your notice, deadlines and current licensing concerns.

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    Before sharing audit data, review the request, contractual obligations and response deadlines.Talk to an SAP Audit Expert →

    SAP audit defense starts with reviewing the audit request against your agreements, checking the evidence behind named-user and indirect-access findings, and preparing a documented response. Your obligations and available options depend on your contracts and circumstances.

    SAP Audit Challenges

    Common SAP audit traps we help you avoid

    Indirect Access Claims

    SAP's Indirect Access rules can trigger unexpected licensing requirements when third-party systems access SAP data.

    Named User Classification

    Determining the correct user type (Professional, Limited, Employee, etc.) is complex and audit-prone.

    S/4HANA and Contract Changes

    S/4HANA conversions and related contract changes can alter licensing metrics and entitlements. Review audit findings against your current agreements, separately from any migration or commercial proposal.

    Document Access Licensing

    SAP's Digital Access model licenses specified document types created in SAP through indirect use. Its counting rules and your agreements determine whether it applies.

    SAP Digital Access guidance

    Third-Party Integration Risk

    Integrations with Salesforce, ServiceNow, or custom applications can trigger Indirect Access claims.

    Development & Test Systems

    Non-production systems often require licensing that organizations overlook.

    Our Winning Combination

    Technical experts + Real attorneys

    We don't just understand SAP licensing—we know how to defend your position. Our partnership with Beeman & Muchmore, LLP gives you access to attorneys experienced in software contract law.

    Contract-Based Defense

    We defend based on your contract, not vendor policies.

    Legal Partnership

    Real attorneys who specialize in software licensing law.

    Ready to defend your position?

    • Initial conversation about your notice and deadlines
    • If engaged: contract review & analysis
    • If engaged: Effective License Position (ELP)
    • If engaged: negotiation & settlement support
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    SAP Resources

    Essential guides & tools

    Customer Stories

    Audit defense outcomes across other software publishers

    These Microsoft and Oracle examples illustrate our audit-defense approach; they are not SAP customer outcomes or predictions.

    View All Customer Stories
    Insights & Articles

    SAP and related licensing insights

    For broader SAP licensing background, see SAP licensing and SAP licensing FAQ.

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    FAQ

    SAP audit questions answered

    What is SAP Indirect Access?

    Indirect Access refers to scenarios where users or systems access SAP data through third-party applications, interfaces, or integrations rather than directly through the SAP GUI. SAP has historically claimed this requires additional licensing.

    How did SAP change Indirect Access rules?

    In 2018, SAP introduced Digital Access as an alternative to user-based licensing for indirect use. It counts specified document types (such as sales, invoice, purchase and financial documents) created in the SAP system through indirect use, rather than reading or accessing data generally. SAP's counting rules and your applicable agreements determine what is required.

    Can SAP audit our third-party integrations?

    SAP audit rights typically cover your use of SAP software. However, they often expand audit scope to include integrations. We help you understand what you're contractually obligated to disclose and how to protect your position.

    When should we review our SAP licensing readiness?

    Consider reviewing your SAP licensing position before contract renewals, S/4HANA or cloud transitions, mergers or acquisitions, significant changes in user counts or new integrations with SAP data.

    How should we prepare for an SAP audit?

    Start by understanding your contracts and current deployment. Inventory all SAP systems, user types, and integrations. Document your license entitlements. Most importantly, review the request, contractual obligations and response deadlines before sharing audit data with SAP.

    Don't face a SAP audit alone

    Get expert help from an independent team of licensing experts and contract attorneys.

    Talk to an SAP Audit ExpertSend Us a MessageLearn About Audit Defense
    Beyond Audit Defense

    Comprehensive licensing solutions

    Whether you need ongoing management, contract support, or cloud optimization—we have you covered.