Category: ERP & SAP

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SAP S/4HANA Overview

What is this new iteration of SAP’s ERP all about? How does it differ from its predecessor, ECC6? Here's an overview of SAP S/4HANA.

S/4HANA represents one of today’s most buoyant areas of enterprise IT. Investing time in developing your S/4 expertise can lead to a very successful and reliable career. But what is this new iteration of SAP’s ERP all about? How does it differ from its predecessor, ECC6? Time for a quick overview of SAP S/4HANA.

S/4HANA is short for “Simplified For HANA (Hi-Performance Analytical Appliance).” While ECC6 objective is to run on a variety of databases from vendors such as Oracle or IBM, S/4HANA; as its name suggests; can only operate on SAP HANA. Launched in 2015, SAP’s in-memory database allows for increase data access speed and greater live data analysis capabilities. This is a key advantage in the era of the connected enterprise and data insights. Additionally, a different column-based data organisation allows for the reduction of the number of databases needed to integrate all the information. This allows to streamline and speed up data analysis.

But let’s dive into the details of this overview of SAP S/4HANA.

SAP S/4HANA vs ECC6: A New UX

Additionally, S/4HANA comes with significant updates. Among the most immediately noticeable changes is the system’s reliance on the SAP Fiori 3 UX. The new user experience streamlines day-to-day use of the platform for both developers and end-users.

Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of SAP

Module updates and data integration

Another big change introduced by S/4HANA comes in terms of module and component organisation.

Firstly, data from what were two separate modules; Financial Accounting (FI) and Controlling (CO); is now integrated into a single pool of information: the Universal Journal. The new arrangement allows users and business managers to make better and faster decisions from a more holistic financial and management perspective.

By integrating all accounting-relevant information from various components into a single, universal journal, S/4HANA speeds up data processes by eliminating redundancies and data reconciliation. The result is a data insights ecosystem that puts less strain on the system and has a reduced memory footprint.

Embedded analytics and Machine Learning

Additionally, a built-in data analytics module further supports this integrated data processing approach. Embedded Analytics leverages SAP ABAP Core Data Services technology to create Virtual Data Models out of operational data and provide real-time operational reporting. In other words, everything that business users need to operate from a smart business cockpit packed with data insights and forward-looking tools.

Furthermore, embedded Machine Learning capabilities push these predictive tools to a new level, allowing companies to build smart applications like predictive pricing and maintenance.

Greenfield vs. Brownfield implementation

First of all, it is important to note that not all S/4HANA migration projects work in the same way, and therefore, the expertise you will require and obtain will depend on the type of project you are involved in.

A greenfield implementation refers to the process of adopting S/4HANA and designing its ERP system from scratch. This approach parts from the business and operational needs of the system to then come up with the technical infrastructure that will make it possible. Greenfield projects can be applied when an organization has no previous ERP system or processes in place, as well as when it wants to design a completely new one.

Conversely, brownfield implementations part from already present processes or systems and convert them to the S/4HANA platform. This process involves the revision of the entire previous ecosystem and then the optimisation of existing processes. Companies who are already working with SAP’s previous suite (ECC6 and want to upgrade to S/4HANA, often apply it.

Blueprinting

Preparation is fundamental. A successful migration to S/4HANA is dependent on the proper outlining of a series of key processes. Since the ERP suite has a one source of truth approach, these involve integrating all relevant data into the same data pools. The processes will be approached differently in greenfield and brownfield migrations.

For example, all accounting-related data will be entered once into the Universal Journal. A similar process will be carried out to unify all partner-related information into the Business Partner data pool. A thorough mapping and configuration of New Asset Accounting will be required to migrate to S/4HANA finance, etc.

The team in charge of the migration will need to make an inventory of all preexisting data sets and figure out a way of adapting them to the S/4HANA ecosystem. These processes involve a lot of data cleaning and reconciliation and can take a lot of time. However, companies must ensure they put enough focus on this step, as it will serve as the backbone on which to build a next-generation ERP and a truly intelligent digital enterprise.

This overview of SAP S/4HANA piqued your interest? Want to make the most of S/4HANA’s career potential? Check out also our comprehensive S/4HANA Careers Guide.

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Tags ECC6, ERP, S/4HANA, SAP, SAP Fiori, SAP S/4HANA

ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

The Different S/4HANA Roles

Post author By Mindquest
Post date 8th April 2020
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What are the different S/4HANA roles that IT professionals can choose to take?

As a result of the impending 2030 deadline, businesses still relying on SAP’s older software find themselves in a race against the clock to migrate to S/4HANA; a lengthy and hefty task. But early adoption has been sluggish, and few SAP specialists have had the chance to get hands-on experience with the technology.

Demand for S/4 skills is higher than ever and will only increase in the coming months. Both newcomers and SAP veterans have now the chance to jump on the S/4HANA bandwagon and give a boost to their career.

Functional vs. Technical roles

Just as with ECC6, there are two main categories of S/4HANA roles: functional and technical. However, these two categories often overlap with one another, and the best specialists have a combination of the two.

Then, functional roles essentially serve as the link between business and solution development, helping organisations design and implement S/4HANA environments. These profiles combine a sound technical understanding of SAP’s ERP suite with domain expertise – having knowledge of, for example, finance or HR. They also possess strong communication and leadership capabilities. Therefore, a functional expert has a strong business background and a very good understanding of business flows and processes. Thus, that leads them to be responsible for customising the ecosystem after the implementation of new flows or after an evolution in the core model.

On the other hand, technical roles, as the name suggests, have more to do with the development (coding), monitoring and running of S/4HANA applications. Their main strength is in IT, and less so in industry knowledge or interpersonal skills. However, that doesn’t mean technical profiles don’t need to be competent in these areas – soft skills are becoming more and more crucial for IT professionals.

Functional roles

Specialists in functional S/4HANA roles come from a technical background or are at least well-versed in the technical requirements and capabilities of S/4HANA. Then, domain or industry expertise is a must, as they must have a good grasp of all those non-IT-related concepts to design efficient solutions.

Moreover, a great part of the functional specialist’s job is coordinating with business leaders, end-users and all the other roles involved in the SAP project. Consequently, they also must be good communicators and have well-developed project management and organisational skills.

Also, the specific role within the team mostly depends on the depth of focus and level of seniority. The main functional roles include:

Business Analyst

Firstly, SAP Business Analysts are responsible for assessing and defining the business case driving S/4HANA implementation. These professionals understand the ins and outs of SAP’s platform, leveraging great business and industry acumen to identify what ERP solutions can be applied to optimise company operations. They also help train end-users in the use of the platform.

They often come from a business background or have extensive experience in the specific industry and practice (e.g. Finance or manufacturing), a skillset they complement with S/4 training and know-how. Others started in IT and have later garnered valuable business and consultancy expertise.

Application / Module expert

These are very focused business analysts or more technical profiles specialised in a particular S/4HANA module (e.g. Finance, Sales). These subject matter experts can provide advice and implement SAP components or oversee their day-to-day operations — or both. It is a must for module experts to be proficient in the area of business to which their module relates.

A good example of an SAP application expert is the SAP FI/CO consultant or analyst. These professionals are specialists in de Finance and Controlling modules, expertise which they combine with financial wisdom to help companies produce reports and streamline operational costs.

Solution Architect

As their title suggests, solution architects are the ones designing the S/4HANA environment based on the company’s business needs. They also have a big-picture mentality, which they mix with a deep understanding of SAP tools and other software and hardware tools to devise custom-made ERP systems.

In addition, architects need to be good at communicating their vision and collaborating across the many teams involved in a project, both in technical roles and in more business-related areas.

Project Manager

Somewhat the least technical role of them all, the project manager coordinates the full life-cycle implementation and configuration of S/4HANA projects. Think of them as a sports team coach. The project manager keeps track of project goals and progress while ensuring that every moving part is on the same page.

Moreover, these are individuals with strong leadership and communication skills and that have a knack for problem-solving. They possess a good understanding of the S/4HANA platform and its different modules. In fact, SAP project managers usually have a business background as well as expertise in core modules (e.g. Supply Chain or Finance). Under today’s continuous improvement and delivery (CI/CD) paradigm, project managers must also be proficient in Agile development methodologies.

Technical roles

These are the developers and specialists responsible for delivering and maintaining the SAP solutions as designed by the functional half of the team. Technical specialists are also often involved in the design phase of a project and can help advice on capabilities or ways of approaching a problem. The best specialists in technical positions tend to have good business and domain knowledge and are able to put themselves in the shoes of the functional specialist.

Technical S/4HANA roles include:

ABAP Developer

Creates, tests and implements S/4HANA solutions using SAP’s proprietary ABAP language. These are SAP’s hardcore coders, in charge of the platform’s back end and making the application work. They also are, of course, great coders, and they need to possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

The best ABAP developers combine mastery of S/4HANA modules with great creativity to deliver efficient and lean software solutions. They are also fluent in DevOps and Agile development methodologies and work well in CI/CD product cycles.

SAP Fiori Developer

They are the front-end counterpart of ABAP developers. SAP Fiori is SAP’s advanced user experience (UX) engine. Fiori developers work together with their ABAP piers to develop the visual interface of S/4HANA applications.

In addition, these technical professionals are good coders, but they also possess skills in end-user-related areas like psychology

SAP Basis Administrator

The equivalent of a System Administrator in other platforms, SAP Basis administrators configure and ensure the correct performance and the reliability of the whole S/4 environment. They also have a mix of technical and interpersonal capabilities and do a lot of landscape management and monitoring.

Basis administrators have a deep understanding of the S/4HANA ecosystem and its different modules, but they are also knowledgeable in ABAP, Linux and Java. They also have good collaboration skills, as they need to coordinate with technical colleagues and end-users to keep the system in perfect shape.

Security Analyst

Moreover, administers and monitors security roles and authorization profiles for S/4 systems. Security analysts can be also considered a more focused version of a basis administrator, combining deep technical knowledge of the SAP environment with a focus on security.

Security analysts are proficient in SAP’s role-based security concepts and Profile Generator. They also need to be able to speak to infrastructure-level security concerns to other, less technical roles within the IT team or business managers.

Data analyst

Lastly, these professionals leverage business intelligence and data management to produce insights that help inform business decisions. They are also experts in data engineering and databases, able to create high and low-level data product designs based on business and technology requirements. Moreover, data analysts are experts in SAP HANA in-memory database, and they need fluency in Agile methodologies to be able to collaborate effectively with the rest of the technical team. Additionally, the best data analysts possess good business and domain acumen, which lets them reach deeper and more actionable insights and better communicate with their business peers.

Want to make the most of S/4HANA’s career potential? Also Check our comprehensive S/4HANA Careers Guide.

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Tags Career Guide, ERP, IT careers, S/4HANA, SAP, SAP careers

ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

SAP FICO Consultant : Job Description

Post author By Mindquest
Post date 27th February 2020
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Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive SAP FICO Consultant job description to attract top talent.

The SAP FICO consultant is responsible for developing and implementing SAP-based ERP solutions, focusing on the finance and controlling areas. They work closely with the client’s finance team to analyze and design SAP FI/CO solutions, perform testing and ensure the stability of the solution.

The SAP FICO module is one of the most widely used SAP modules and includes SAP FICO configuration and usage. Therefore, aspiring SAP FICO consultants should have a strong foundation in all aspects of the SAP FICO module to succeed in their role.

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What is SAP FICO?

SAP FICO is a functional component of SAP ERP, used in many large companies to generate and manage financial statements. It is used for reporting, but also for analysis for decision-making. Explore the role of the SAP FICO Consultant

Learn more about SAP careers from this SAP project management expert. You might also want to explore the role of the Salesforce Consultant

Above all, we are talking about two modules: SAP FI (Financial Accounting) for the Finance part and SAP CO (Controlling) for the Management control part:

The SAP FI module allows companies to generate financial statements such as balance sheets or profit and loss reports. It is itself made up of secondary modules dedicated to specific accounting processes: Customer Accounting (FI-AR), Fixed Asset Accounting (FI-AA), General Ledger (FI-GL)…
The SAP CO module manages the planning, reporting and supervision of operational costs. A determining module to improve the profitability of a company, it is also composed of secondary modules: Cost control by product (SAP CO-PC), Accounting (SAP CO-OM-CEL), Analysis of the income statement ( SAP CO-PA)…

As a consequence, the SAP FICO consultant is an expert on these specific modules. Before installing the software, their primary role is to analyze and define the needs of the company. They can then have an advisory or support role.

What is the role of the SAP FICO Consultant?

Analyze and assess user needs

Before installing the solution, the SAP FI / CO consultant must analyze and understand user needs. As a result, they will be able to precisely define which functionalities to configure.

Solution and functionality development

Once the assessment is completed, the role of the consultant is to implement the solution. His knowledge of business case allows him to develop tailor-made functionalities to fully cover the needs of the company.

Train future users

After installing the solution, the SAP FICO consultant must ensure that future users can handle the software. They then train future users and play a support role in the event of any problems.

To help companies achieve a successful SAP implementation, this whitepaper explains SAP implementation best practices. It also presents a case study from the global leader sportwear company ADIDAS as an example of successful SAP implementation.

Whether you are a business leader, IT professional, or project manager, this whitepaper will help you understand how to plan, execute, and manage a successful SAP implementation that delivers tangible benefits and ROI.

SAP Implementation Best Practices: ADIDAS case study

Required skills of the SAP FICO Consultant

How to become a SAP FICO consultant? Here is a list of the skills needed to succeed in this career.

Technical expertise

As an expert, mastery of the SAP FICO modules is obviously essential. The consultant must have very good technical knowledge in order to be able to fully meet the client’s needs and to develop suitable functionalities. But also to validate and document the project requirements.

Knowledge of accounting, corporate finance & management control

Firstly, business knowledge is essential for the FICO consultant: they must master and understand the end user’s problems, as well as the business processes involved, to set up suitable workflows in the information system.

A good analytical mind

Soft skills are also essential the SAP FICO consultant must be able to better analyze the processes and business lines of the company, to determine if the necessary functionalities fall under a standard use of SAP FICO or if they require custom development. They also often act as an intermediary between technical teams and trades.

Listening skills and pedagogy

Then, to better understand the needs of the company, the SAP FICO consultant must have good interpersonal skills and always remain attentive to their client and future users to assess their needs. Likewise, once the solution has been implemented, the consultant will have to provide training for future users: being a good communicator and teacher is therefore very useful.

Also read the 5 key benefits of hiring a SAP FICO Consultant

Context

SAP FICO consultants can work either in-house or externally.

In-house consultants work for the organization during and after the implementation phase, while external consultants are only involved in the implementation.

Moreover, consultants are responsible for system configuration and execution, based on business requirements, GAAP analysis, process improvement, and identifying new opportunities or products. Thus, their role is more significant than that of end/power clients since they are accountable for successful execution of the system. Becoming an SAP FICO consultant is a major career advancement.

In addition, the SAP FICO consultant plays an important role during a digital transition. It is usually the large companies that use this type of profile. Recently, some SMEs have integrated this tool into their activity to gain competitiveness. Today, the needs of companies in SAP FICO expertise are numerous.

Salary of the SAP FICO Consultant

How much does a SAP FICO Consultant make?

The salary of a SAP FICO Consultant can also vary depending on several factors such as location, years of experience, industry, and company size. According to Payscale, the average salary for a SAP FICO Consultant in Europe is around €61,000 per year, with the range typically falling between €40,000 to €89,000 per year.

While according to Glassdoor, the average salary for a SAP FICO Consultant in the United States is around $97,000 per year, with the range typically falling between $75,000 to $120,000 per year.

However, the actual salary can differ based on the country and specific location within that country.

Training of the SAP FICO Consultant

The FICO functional consultant can come from a business school with a finance option, an engineering school, or even from an accounting background. However, it is generally necessary to pass the various SAP certifications concerning the SAP FI and SAP CO modules, as well as to have several years of experience in the implementation and support projects.

In conclusion, a SAP FICO consultant typically evolves by taking on increasingly important integration missions and supervising a team. As they gain more experience and expertise in the field, they may be entrusted with critical integration projects that have a significant impact on the organization’s financial systems and operations. Thus, this offers opportunities for growth and advancement in the field of finance and technology.

Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of SAP

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Tags IT careers, SAP, SAP consultants, SAP FICO, SAP FICO Consultant

ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

IoT Consultant : Job Description

Post author By Mindquest
Post date 29th January 2020
No Comments on IoT Consultant : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive IoT Consultant job description to attract top talent.

IoT is undoubtedly a rapidly expanding field. Accordingly, the IoT consultant role is on the rise. An IoT consultant is involved in the development of IoT projects in all types of companies. They can also help a company transform its existing products into connected objects as part of a global innovation process.

Also discover the role of the IT Business Analyst

What is the role of the IoT Consultant?

Support and advise the company before, during and after making the decision to enter the IoT space.

The first step in the IoT consultant’s mission is often to analyse the situation and understand the level of stakeholder awareness. The world of connected objects is complex, therefore the consultant must ensure that the project is coherent and beneficial for the company.

They must also assess the opportunities and risks that connected objects can offer in relation to the specific context of a company (sector, products, customer uses, internal organization, etc.). They then estimate the investment required, in terms of time and costs for a given project.

Identify customer needs and define a strategy

Further, the IoT consultant must make recommendations that take into account the capabilities and constraints of the company. For example, it can perform an IT and technology audit, design a business plan, and design an implementation plan.

Develop complex analytical solutions

In addition, the IoT consultant often plays a key role in drafting the project’s specifications, all in coordination with the other departments of the company. They can then subsequently manage the implementation of the project, playing a coordinating role to ensure the correct deployment and monitoring of the projects concerned. This process covers the implementation of IoT products and services, as wells as of user training and support procedures.

Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of SAP

Required Skills

Listening skills and excellent analytical skills

The IoT consultant must also demonstrate great listening skills to best meet the expectations of their client. Their adaptability must also allow them to interact with any type of interlocutor, regardless of their level of seniority or their knowledge of IoT technologies.

Advanced technical knowledge

The IoT consultant must obviously have a deep and broad knowledge of information and communication technologies and, in particular, of the latest technologies developed in terms of connected objects. They must also be able to work with technical experts whose language they must understand and have mastered.

The soul of a leader

Moreover, to lead a team and convince them to embark on often profound changes, IoT consultants must be able to assert their ideas, as well as to get their clients to trust them, despite possible resistance from certain stakeholders.

Great responsiveness and curiosity

Dynamic, lively, reactive, they must learn how to continuously evolve in an often-complex customer context, be creative and keep strengthening their proposal skills.

Education

To access this profession, one must go to engineering school (some have IoT-focused programmes or specializations).

Dual management skills in a business school are also highly appreciated.

And, remember — An IoT consultant is an expert. Access to this role is therefore not possible right after graduation. Job seekers must first have experience in business and in project management related to the Internet of Things.

Deeping on the difference between Big Data and Business Intelligence

Tags iot careers, iot consultant, IT careers, Who is Who