We all know how closely integrated with Industry is SAP. Over the years SAP has evolved through the ever evolving needs of Industry itself. This makes that much more imperative for us to be abreast with the knowledge of the trends and oppurtunities of the relevant Industry.
Having relevant Industry insight not just gives us an edge over others but also is one of the primary driving factors in developing relationships with clients. It gives one the command and assertiveness to interact with the client. It helps to speak the language of client and map SAP as per the requirements.
Clients cannot know about SAP as much as they know about thier business processes. Hence he will not know which functionality of SAP will suit to his needs. He may not understand the depth and the relevance of various functionalities that are avilable at his disposal.
For an SAP Consultant its the opposite. Though he might be a specialist in SAP, He may not have the true understanding of the basic nuances of the Industry and client processes alike. This is where his Industry knowledge would come to the fore and could bail him out of tough situations.
How can Organisations make sure that all its employees are Industry proficient?
Here are a few points that can be followed:
1) Have several Industry e-learnings as a regular study.
2) Incorporate it into one's annual goals so that they are completed with out fail.
3) Provide various levels of Industry proficiency and give targets for its completion.
Once the above points are followed I am sure most of SAP Consultants will be Industry ready. To become a true SAP consultant one needs to also garnish himself with Industry knowledge.
