Inhaltsverzeichnis
Overview: SAP Knowledge Forge 2026
The event brought together experts from various industries to discuss innovative approaches to SAP training and qualification.
Key questions addressed included:
- Where do companies stand in SAP training today?
- Which methods and technologies support learning processes?
- What trends are emerging in SAP education?
Bridging Theory and Practice: SAP in Higher Education
Academic Context and SAP Collaboration
The SAP University Competence Center (UCC) Magdeburg, part of the Faculty of Computer Science at Otto von Guericke University, works closely with the SAP University Alliances program to support universities worldwide.
Teaching and Learning Environments (TLEs)
At the core are ready-to-use teaching environments that provide not only system access but also structured, didactically prepared learning materials. These enable instructors to deliver SAP knowledge in a practical and structured way.
Support and Curriculum Development
The UCC hosts SAP systems and develops tailored curricula across disciplines. Continuous training ensures both educators and students stay up to date.
Hands-On Learning with “Global Bike”
A key component is the SAP model company Global Bike, which simulates real-world business processes of a fictional bicycle manufacturer. Students can explore end-to-end processes in a realistic SAP environment.
Benefits for Universities and Businesses
- Universities: Easy integration into curricula
- Students: Early exposure to SAP solutions and certifications
- Companies: Access to job-ready graduates with SAP expertise
Upskilling with the SAP Model Company “Otto Bikes”
Key Challenges in SAP Training
Organizations increasingly face questions such as:
- How do we find qualified SAP professionals?
- How do we effectively train our teams?
- How do we stay up to date with SAP developments?
Our Approach: Building Internal SAP Expertise
Since hiring experienced SAP experts is often difficult, we focus on developing talent internally through a structured training program.
Our Internal Academy
We define role-specific skills, certifications, and learning paths across departments. Progress is regularly reviewed to ensure sustainable knowledge development.
Hands-On Training with “Otto Bikes”
Our SAP Model Company Otto Bikes replicates a full dataset and business processes within an SAP S/4HANA system. This allows employees to experience SAP in a practical, end-to-end context.
We also offer this environment to external companies, including training materials and tailored workshops.
Key Benefits
- Step-by-step documentation
- Realistic business scenarios
- Suitable for beginners and advanced users
- Promotes confidence and independence in SAP usage
Our Key Takeaways
- Talent is often developed internally
- Structured training is essential
- Motivation comes from clear goals and real-world relevance
- Continuous learning keeps teams up to date
The Future of the SAP Training Market
Which SAP Skills Are in Demand?
A 2025 demand analysis shows strong demand for:
- SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP)
- SAP Fiori
- SAP Analytics Cloud
- Integration solutions
- Artificial Intelligence
Additionally, cross-functional skills such as process analysis, change management, and cybersecurity are gaining importance.
New Learning Formats
Flexible learning formats are increasingly important:
- E-learning and live online sessions
- In-person workshops
- Interactive, hands-on training
Investment Trends
Companies are prioritizing investments in:
- SAP S/4HANA
- Security and compliance
- BTP and AI
Addressing the Skills Shortage
Initiatives such as career transition programs and student-focused training platforms help attract new talent and close skill gaps.
Conclusion
The SAP training market is evolving rapidly, requiring flexible, practical, and future-oriented qualification programs.
SAP 2026: Why AI Alone Is Not Enough
The Human Factor in an Intelligent Ecosystem
While AI is increasingly integrated into SAP processes, human expertise remains essential. Critical thinking, experience, and interpersonal skills cannot be replaced.
Changing Skill Requirements
According to global reports, 40% of current skills may become obsolete by 2030. Continuous learning is therefore critical.
SAP Skills Gap 2026
Key areas for development include:
- SAP Fiori
- SAP S/4HANA Finance & Logistics
- SAP BTP
- SAP Analytics Cloud
Cross-functional skills:
- Process optimization
- AI understanding
- Change management
- Agile project management
AI in Learning: Opportunities and Limits
AI supports:
- Personalized learning paths
- Automated quizzes and recommendations
- Faster knowledge access
However, it does not replace human judgment and expertise.
Conclusion
The future of SAP learning lies in combining AI capabilities with human skills.
SAP Certification Updates: From Theory to Practice
A Shift Toward Practical Assessments
SAP certifications are moving away from multiple-choice exams toward performance-based assessments that validate real-world skills.
Then vs. Now
Previously:
- Fixed exam dates
- Proctored environments
- Focus on theoretical knowledge
Today:
- Real-world scenarios
- Open-book format
- Use of tools like Google and AI allowed
New Assessment Formats
Scenario-Based Assessments:
- Interaction with AI-driven customer simulations
- Real-time feedback via analytics dashboards
System-Based Assessments:
- Tasks performed directly in SAP systems
- Evaluation of hands-on skills
Preparation and Rollout
SAP provides learning journeys and practice systems. The transition to the new format is ongoing.
Conclusion
SAP is setting new standards with practical, future-oriented certification models.
Final Thoughts: The Future of SAP Training
SAP Knowledge Forge 2026 highlighted how dynamic and diverse SAP education has become.
Key takeaways:
- Practical, hands-on learning is essential
- Certification formats are evolving
- AI enhances but does not replace human expertise
- Continuous learning is critical for success
Ultimately, the combination of technology, practical experience, and human skills will define the future of SAP training.
