In this candid Q&A session, Johannes and Alexander dive deep into the complexities and realities of digital transformation with SAP. Johannes joins Alexander to tackle pressing your listeners questions on how businesses can navigate SAP’s extensive product portfolio, manage transformation roadmaps, and prioritize cloud strategies.

They discuss the challenges customers face in simplifying SAP offerings and the importance of aligning transformation efforts with clear business goals rather than just cutting costs. The hosts highlight how cloud technology acts as a “personal trainer” for organizations, driving continuous improvement and innovation, while also touching on the evolving role of consultants who must now be business partners guiding change rather than just technical configurators.

The episode also explores how early-career professionals can break into the SAP ecosystem, emphasizing practical experience and the importance of embracing curiosity, especially around AI tools like SAP’s Joule. They reflect on overcoming rejection in career journeys with humor and wisdom, encouraging resilience and adaptability.

With transparency and frankness, Johannes and Alexander shed light on SAP’s marketing versus business realities, AI integration, and the future of enterprise software interactions. This engaging conversation offers valuable insights for SAP users, consultants, and anyone involved in digital transformation.

Takeaways:

• Companies must clarify their transformation ambitions to navigate complexity.
• The role of partners is crucial in simplifying transformation processes.
• Cloud solutions can drive performance but require a shift in mindset.
• Consultants should act as business partners, guiding clients through change.
• Rejection in job applications is common and should be viewed as feedback.
• Early career professionals should focus on gaining real-life experience.
• Change management is essential for successful SAP implementations.
• The importance of communication skills in consulting cannot be overstated.
• AI tools like Jewel can enhance user interactions with systems.
• Owning a topic or a number can significantly boost career advancement.

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/
Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma