Three Takeaways from ASUG Research: Challenges and Opportunities for Efficient SAP Implementations

[Marissa_Gilbert]

Here are the three key takeaways from this year's research:

1. People are at the heart of transformation. 

The core message of our presentation was that people are still the linchpin of any successful business transformation. Organizations are motivated to transform primarily to enhance operations, and this involves empowering their workforce. Understanding and addressing the human aspect of change management is vital for a successful transformation, particularly as research respondents who cited change management as a challenge spiked to 58% in 2023 (from 43% in 2022). 

Another standout issue was the skills gap, which includes the lack of essential skills, inadequate skills, or a shortage of skills and its hinderance on organizational transformation efforts. The top three missing skills identified in the research were SAP S/4HANA expertise, business process transformation, and training and onboarding management. Organizations are grappling with learning on the job or relying on external resources to fill these crucial skill gaps.

2. Set milestones and benchmarks to maintain commitment.

While numerous potential benefits can be gained from a business transformation, the research emphasized that these benefits take time to materialize. Organizations should maintain their commitment to the journey, even when immediate results may not be apparent. A long-term perspective is essential for realizing the full potential of transformation initiatives. A key insight from the research was that nearly half of respondents required more than six months to start to realize the benefits of a business transformation.

3. Unlock the potential of business process management. 

The research revealed that business process management tools are underutilized resources in the pursuit of transformation benefits. Organizations can harness the power of these tools to streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and drive efficiencies. Recognizing the value of such tools is critical for optimizing the benefits of transformation efforts.

ASUG conducted this research in June 2023. The results are based on responses from 148 participants who are members of ASUG.