Top 6 SAP Trends – Shaping the Future of Business Operations [Updated 2024]

As can be shown in the statistics provided in the Corporate Fact Sheet (SAP, 2024)

• 99 of the world’s 100 largest firms are SAP customers
• 85 of the world’s 100 largest firms are SAP S/4HANA customers
• SMEs account for approximately 80% of SAP’s customers
• SAP offered packaged solutions for 26 industries and 12 lines of business whether Cloud-based, On-premise, or Hybrid

As can be shown in the above statistics provided in the Corporate Fact Sheet (SAP, 2024), businesses worldwide see SAP ERP as a trusted “assistant” for their effective operations,  driving efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. Therefore, it is emerging for SAP users to keep their businesses updated with the latest 2024-2025 SAP trends (Cloud service, generative AI & ML, etc.) to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and “sharpen” their competitive edge. 

Let’s explore the top 6 SAP trends shaping the future of business technology this year.

1 – Rise of SAP S/4HANA Cloud Adoption

One of the most significant SAP trends in 2024 is the growing adoption of the new SAP S/4HANA Cloud. As more organizations prioritize the flexibility and scalability of cloud-based solutions, they are migrating from on-premise systems to SAP’s cloud-based ERP platform SAP S/4HANA.

Migrating to S/4HANA Cloud allows businesses to modernize their ERP system specifically, and their IT infrastructure as a whole, streamline operations, and access real-time insights across their business (supply chains, finance, customer service, etc.). In the Cloud computing era, SAP’s emphasis on hybrid cloud environments is helping businesses enhance their ERP systems’ efficiency and agility.

Key Benefits:

• Real-time decision-making: Access up-to-date data, analytics, and insights for faster, more informed business decisions.
• Reduced infrastructure costs: With the use of hybrid and Cloud, businesses can cut down on on-premise infrastructure costs.
• Scalability: Easily expand your business operations without being limited by on-premise infrastructure. In other words, this gives businesses greater agility to adapt to market changes

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2 – Generative AI & Automation in SAP

Among SAP trends to be mentioned are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation. 

Generative AI, Machine Learning (ML), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are reshaping how businesses operate, and SAP is fully integrating these technologies. 

AI and ML integration enhances the efficiency and intelligence of SAP’s product suite across various modules, enabling companies to reduce manual tasks, optimize workflows, and improve accuracy across various modules(supply chain, finance, human resources, CRM, etc.) 

Key Benefits:

• Increased efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks allows employees to focus on more strategic activities.
• Enhanced effective decision-making: AI-driven insights provide deeper and real-time data analytics supporting smarter business decisions.

3 – Sustainability Initiatives in SAP

Over the past few years, the “sustainability” keyword has become one of the businesses’ targetsSAP is at the forefront of this trend, with tools that allow companies to track and reduce their carbon footprints: SAP Sustainability Footprint Management and SAP Sustainability Control Tower

This focus on sustainability aligns with global efforts to reduce environmental impact and meet regulatory requirements. In 2024 and years to come, sustainability initiatives within SAP will gain more prominence, with businesses leveraging SAP’s capabilities to track, report, and improve their environmental impact.

Key Benefits:

• Environmental compliance: Meet regulatory requirements and reduce business carbon footprint.
• Long-term cost savings: Sustainable practices can lead to reduced energy costs on fossil fuels and improved operational efficiency.

4 – Cybersecurity Enhancement in SAP Solutions

As digital transformation accelerates, businesses are now exposed to the risks associated with cyber threats. Recognizing the importance of cybersecurity, SAP has introduced several solutions to safeguard digital assets, such as SAP Cloud Identity Access Management and SAP Cloud Platform Security to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data​.

In terms of cybersecurity among SAP trends is the use of blockchain integration. Blockchain technology offers more transparent, traceable, and safer security within SAP ecosystem

Key Benefits:

• Data protection: Safeguard businesses from cyberattacks and data leaks.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure that your organization meets global cybersecurity standards.

5 – Enhanced User Experience, Elevate Engagement with SAP Fiori

User experience (UX) has become a top priority in enterprise software, and there is no exception in the SAP trends. SAP Fiori, with its personalized, responsive design, has transformed how users interact with SAP systems, creating seamless user experiences.

By simplifying complex processes and providing a more accessible interface, SAP Fiori improves productivity and reduces the learning curve for employees.

The growing focus on enhancing user experience trend is predicted to continue throughout 2024 and beyond, as businesses notice that a better UX leads to higher employee satisfaction and efficiency.

Key Benefits:

• Improved productivity: Employees can perform tasks more efficiently, maximizing the use of businesses’ SAP ERP system, with an intuitive, user-friendly interface (compatible on both desktops and mobile screens)
• Reduced training costs: The simplicity of SAP Fiori reduces the time and resources needed for employee training to use the tools/modules.

6 – Focus on Industry-Specific Solutions

Another key SAP trend for 2024 is the increasing focus on industry-specific solutions. With the customer-centric goal, SAP is tailoring module offerings to meet the unique needs of different sectors such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, finance, etc.

These solutions are designed to address industry-specific challenges and optimize processes in ways that are directly aligned with sector-specific requirements, helping businesses to stay ahead in the competitive marketplace. Businesses adopting these industry-focused SAP solutions can expect improvement in operational efficiency, cost savings, and better alignment with regulatory standards. 

At VTI, we strive to accompany businesses streamline their business operation, and boost productivity while saving cost with our quality SAP Service

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A Short Sum-up

As the 2024 SAP trends continue to unfold, businesses must stay informed and proactive in adopting these innovations. Whether it’s migrating to the cloud, leveraging AI, or focusing on sustainability, etc. embracing these trends will help companies stay competitive and thrive in the digital economy.

By understanding and implementing these trends, organizations can maximize the use of SAP to drive efficiency, enhance customer experience, and secure their future competitive edge in this dynamic digital world.

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As a leading outsourcing company, VTI has extensive experience delivering solutions to clients across Vietnam, Japan, Korea, and Singapore. Our SAP team provides comprehensive, end-to-end services, from consulting and application development to maintenance and migration. We are proud of our expertise in SAP ERP modules and our strong partnerships with platforms like Odoo

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• Abundant SAP Talent: VTI has a rich pool of SAP experts, supported by continuous training programs to ensure that we consistently provide skilled professionals to meet our client’s needs.

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