AI is the buzzword of the moment, but using artificial intelligence and machine learning to support tech automation is nothing new. What is new however is how improved AI architecture can be combined with big data to create smarter, more accurate and most importantly accessible models. Embedding AI into your existing SAP ecosystems might seem daunting, however if AI for SAP is implemented properly and with care into your SAP infrastructure it has the potential to revolutionize the way you work, how you make critical business decisions and the success with which those decisions get results.
Understanding the Intersection of AI and SAP
The use of AI in business management is growing. According to Forbes, currently just over half of US businesses use AI to improve or automate production processes, with 40% using AI for data aggregation, 46% for streamlining internal communications and just 38% for idea generation. Thanks to an increasing acceptance of AI these numbers are only going to increase.
Those businesses using SAP products should see a natural increase in their use of artificial intelligence and machine learning as the company sees itself as a driving force in the use of enterprise AI and is currently working on it’s own foundational AI model.
SAP S/4HANA for example, includes 25 current use cases of AI for SAP including advanced analytics and predictive capabilities, demand forecasting, fraud detection and intelligent process optimization.
The Benefits of Integrating AI into SAP
Integrating AI for SAP into your enterprise management can be extremely beneficial. AI can help you do more with your employee’s time, reduce the burden of repetitive tasks and provide you with data-driven insights that can lead to:
- Improved Efficiency and Productivity
AI for SAP can transform projects, optimizing efficiency, and boosting productivity. Through automation, repetitive manual tasks such as data entry, report generation, and invoice processing can be seamlessly executed, freeing up valuable time and resources. For instance, AI-powered chatbots can handle routine customer inquiries, while predictive analytics can anticipate potential issues in SAP implementations, enabling proactive problem-solving. By using AI in this way, you can achieve significant time savings, improve accuracy, and ultimately drive better business outcomes. - Data-driven Decision Making
The AI-driven insights provided by SAP environments can play a pivotal role in refining your decision-making processes. Machine learning algorithms are great at analyzing extensive datasets, extracting patterns, and forecasting trends, empowering you to make informed decisions swiftly. AI can predict supply chain disruptions, allowing you to take proactive action to prevent delays; it can gauge customer feedback, guiding your marketing initiatives; and it can give you a deeper understanding and foresight into your operations, enabling you to adjust strategies effectively, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities for growth. - Cost-effectiveness and Resource Optimization
Integrating AI into SAP projects can not only lead to substantial cost savings but by improving resource allocation can pave the way for improved profitability meaning the potential ROI of AI is huge! Because automation streamlines operations, it allows staff to focus on tasks that add value. AI’s predictive capabilities can also optimize resource allocation by forecasting demand, preventing overstocking or underutilization of resources. AI-driven insights can identify areas for process optimization and efficiency improvements and by minimizing errors AI can reduce operational costs even further.
Practical Ways to Implement AI and Automation
We’ve put together some actionable steps to help those businesses exploring how to make better use of AI for SAP. If you are planning to integrate AI and automation into your existing SAP infrastructure or beginning a new SAP project and want to ensure that AI is built in from the beginning begin by:
- Conducting a comprehensive assessment of your current processes to identify areas ripe for automation. Start with pilot projects to test AI-driven solutions before full-scale implementation and collaborate closely with IT and business stakeholders to ensure seamless integration and alignment with organizational goals.
- Looking for tools that are compatible with your existing technology. Prioritize tools with proven compatibility and seamless integration with your existing infrastructure or your chosen SAP system. Evaluate vendors based on their track record, customer reviews, and scalability of their AI solutions. Look for platforms offering robust support and training resources to facilitate smooth adoption.
- Developing a clear roadmap outlining the integration process, including timelines and milestones. This will help you overcome any potential challenges during the integration process.
- Allocating sufficient resources for training and upskilling employees to adapt to AI-driven workflows. Implement change management strategies to address resistance and foster a culture of innovation.
- Sourcing and hiring the right support. Look for SAP consultants with specific SAP AI Certifications or related fields. Prioritize candidates with hands-on experience in deploying AI solutions within SAP environments. Use your current teams’ professional networks and industry forums to identify qualified consultants with a proven track record of success.
Widespread use of AI has the potential to change the way businesses work at the most fundamental level. AI and automation are set to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making for companies large and small. Which is why embracing AI-driven SAP implementations now could be so important for ensuring your ability to be competitive.
Starting that journey requires SAP consultant support with the right skills and experience so that you can be confident in your ability to integrate AI into your business. Not sure where to start when it comes to hiring your next SAP consultant? Whitehall can help.
About the Author
Whitehall is a global SAP recruitment agency. Thanks to our curated and expansive network of seasoned SAP candidates, we can help find you the specialist professionals you need to support your SAP projects. Find out more about our services.