SAP consultation can seem like a whole different world. There are so many layers, so many technical details, and so many things that can go wrong. But here’s the thing — if you approach it the right way, it’s actually a lot more manageable than it seems. I, Chris Salis, have been in the SAP game for a while now, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that make the whole process smoother, more efficient, and (dare I say) even a little fun.
So, if you’re looking for some real-world advice on SAP consultation — no fluff, just the stuff that works — here’s my take. Let’s dive in.
The Key to SAP Consultation: It’s All About Understanding the Business First
I can’t stress this enough: you’ve got to understand the business before you do anything else. Sure, SAP is a powerful tool, but it’s not magic. It’s just a tool that needs to be used the right way.
When I first start working with a client, I don’t rush into the technical stuff. Instead, I spend time really understanding what the business does, what their goals are, and where they’re struggling. I talk to the team, I ask questions, and I get a feel for the company’s culture and workflow.
This is the foundation for everything that comes after. If you don’t get this right, you might end up customizing SAP in ways that don’t actually help the business. And that’s just a waste of time for everyone.
Communication Is Everything — Don’t Let Things Fall Through the Cracks
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen in SAP projects is when communication breaks down. I get it — everyone’s busy, there’s a lot to do, and sometimes it feels like there’s just not enough time to keep everyone in the loop. But trust me, this is one of those areas where you can’t afford to slack off.
I always set up regular check-ins with my clients. Whether it’s a quick weekly meeting or just a daily update email, I make sure everyone knows what’s going on and what needs to be done next. And, most importantly, I make sure to keep the lines open for feedback. It’s amazing how much smoother things go when you’re all on the same page.
Customization: Don’t Be Afraid to Make SAP Your Own
I’ve worked with a lot of different companies, and here’s the truth: no two businesses are the same. What works for one might not work for another. That’s why I’m a huge believer in customizing SAP to fit each company’s unique needs.
Sure, SAP comes with a lot of out-of-the-box solutions, but I always ask myself: “How can we make this work better for the client?” Sometimes that means tweaking things a bit, other times it’s about adding custom features. Whatever it takes to make the system work for them.
Stay Agile — Things Will Change, and That’s Okay
Let’s face it: things don’t always go according to plan. And that’s perfectly fine. The key is to stay flexible and be ready to adjust as you go along.
I’ve learned over the years that sticking to a rigid plan doesn’t always work in SAP consultation. Sometimes, new challenges pop up, or a client’s needs shift mid-project. That’s when I switch into agile mode. I break the project into smaller chunks, prioritize what’s most important, and adjust as needed. This way, we’re always moving forward, even if the path changes a bit along the way.
Don’t Skip the Training — It’s Just as Important as the Tech Stuff
Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: no matter how great the SAP system is, it’s useless if the team doesn’t know how to use it. I always make sure that the client’s team gets the proper training, and I don’t just hand them a bunch of manuals and call it a day. I get in there, show them the ropes, and make sure they’re comfortable with the system.
And it doesn’t stop there. After the system’s up and running, I stay available for support. I’m not just there for the big launch; I’m there for the long haul to make sure everything continues to run smoothly.
My Final Thoughts
SAP consultation isn’t just about implementing a system; it’s about understanding the business, staying flexible, and making sure the system actually works for the people using it. If you can do that, you’re golden.
So, if you’re just starting out or you’re looking to improve your SAP consultation game, take it from me: focus on the business, communicate clearly, customize where needed, stay agile, and never underestimate the power of proper training. It’s a simple formula, but it works every time.
Learn More About Me:
https://chrissalis.stck.me/post/264223/Exploring-SAP-Consultation-with-Chris-Salis-A-Startup-Advisor
https://chrissalis.stck.me/post/445121/Christopher-Salis-and-SAP-Story-and-The-Journey
https://christophersalis.mystrikingly.com/