Master of One . What Next ?
Every day in SAP is a new day and each day we take home a lot of learning. We learn new scenarios, face new challenges and thus find new solutions day in and day out. And to imbibe all these learning and to reproduce it when needed makes us a good consultant. The point what I want make is whether it is good to continue in one module and assimilate the knowledge, keep contributing and gradually become an expertise in that particular module or is it better that we move to other modules and gain the knowledge of multiple modules. But if the later is the better option is it realy possible ?
This question came to my mind when I took part in a discussion with my colleagues. I have been working in SAP Quality Management for nearly three years and possibly now I have reached a stage where I can handle any diverse situation or difficult scenarios. I have handled couple of implementation and roll outs and has been able to contribute to SDN forum considerably. Now the obvious question in front of me is What Next? Should I make a move to other logistic module or handle more QM Projects. Our discussion finally closed without any conclusion as the argument flowed from both the sides.
I thought of the advantages of been in one module
- Become a master in one module
- In depth knowledge and Module process expert
- Career growth can be as a Module lead
Disadvantages
- Average or fair Knowledge of some modules
- Process expert
- Career can be towards Project Management .
My main apprehension is that if I make a move to another module will my expertise will lose in the module as without practise we tend to forget lot of solutions and tricks . After a long thought process the final conclusion was that let me spend some more years in the current module and after some time once I feel I am expert move to other modules. Also make sure that what knowledge I accumulate during these years is shared with friends and community so that I help others as well as I can retrieve whenever I need it.
Learn other modules
-You can learn the integration points, and have a greater understanding of when you change something in configuration it will change something else in a different module
-QM is used in all the modules. You probably have the basics in different modules.
-Flexibility. As opportunities come up you are not limited to one module.
Something to think about – you cannot learn it all. There is just too many modules for one person to learn them all in depth. Each time you think you’ve learned everything there is to know, you find something you missed. Also new functionality is added with each upgrade / support pack etc.
So I would start with the integration points, and then move on to picking up some new knowledge while keeping your own QM knowledge current.
However, I’ve had this conversation or something similar with many different people. It is an open debate. I’m technical, and I know about some of the functional areas. So which do you want to be? The expert in one area? When there is not a demand for that area what happens? Or the “not as good” expert in one area with experience in other areas? Me – I’m the “not as good” expert in ABAP learning different technologies while trying to keep up with some of the functionality in QM, SD, MM, RPM, APO… I’m focusing on RPM right now. As that is the project I’m working on. I think you learn the other areas by default.
I know a long reply to your question. This is a topic that I’m very passionate about.
As far as bringing consultants into our business, we look for people with a strong knowledge of their area plus an understanding of the other functional areas. Did I confuse you enough?
Michelle
That was great a response. Atleast I now know from where to start. Thanks again for such a wonderful reply
Regards
Gajesh
Dear Nagesh Sir,
I have 6+ year of domain knowledge in Quality Control and Super user of SAP QM module since 2013. I want to start my career in SAP so I decided to learn QM module (Self study) and now preparing for certification and also learning through SCN.
I have some queries here and seeking your advice:
There are so many such questions in my mind but I have concentrated myself on QM module only but I am afraid too about it's demant and job opportunity.
Kindly give your valuable inputs.
Regards
S Ahmed
Hi Ahmed,
I would surely recommend you to get into SAP QM area for the following reasons
1) Yes QM module is not considered a core module and in my previous organisation i had to face this "core" concept. At times it might demotivate you. But it all depends on the organisation which you are working. If you consider a pharma company QM is considered a premium and it is given equal importance. But as you progress you can learn other module as well as QM has integration to all the other logistics modules.
2) It is possible to get a QM certification and it is definitely going to help you, but if you are well versed with SAP QM functionalities, configuration and data migration methodologies you may not need to consider a certification at this moment.
3) Consulting firms are looking at multiple skill set to handle the project to be cost effective. But I believe QM as a standlone module still has requirement as there is very scarce people taking this module
Regards
Gajesh
Dear Sir,
Thank you for your positive feedback. As suggested, I would go with QM module first (As I have been working in Quality Control department since 2010 and well versed with QM functionalities) and then next...in future.
As you have mentioned in Point 2, I have been learning QM functionalities and Configuration and aware at Basic level but I have no idea about Data Migration. I will also start learning it.
Thank you very much for your valued time and suggestion.
Regards,
S Ahmed