What to Expect from Your SAP S/4HANA Consultant

As more companies continue to adopt SAP S/4HANA as their choice for an ERP system, the demand for experienced consultants who can help implement, customize, optimize, and manage the software has skyrocketed. But what exactly should you expect from your SAP S/4HANA consultant?

Below, we will explore the key responsibilities and skills of an SAP S/4HANA consultant, as well as some tips for choosing the right candidate for your organization. 

Skills to Look for in Your SAP S/4HANA Consultant

First and foremost, an ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the software. They should be able to navigate the various modules and functions of SAP S/4HANA, including finance, logistics, production planning, and more. They should also be able to configure the software to meet your organization’s unique requirements, whether that involves customizing fields, creating new reports, or integrating with other systems. 

In addition to technical expertise, an SAP S/4HANA consultant should have strong project management skills. They should be able to lead your implementation project from start to finish, including creating a project plan, defining project scope, managing resources, and ensuring that milestones are met on time and on budget. They should also be able to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization, from end users to senior executives. 

A well-suited consultant will also train your employees in how to use the software effectively, not only providing hands-on training, but also developing user guides and other documentation. This ensures that your employees have the resources they need to get the most out of the solution. Ongoing support and troubleshooting as needed is also expected from the consultant. 

Choosing an SAP S/4HANA Consultant

When selecting an SAP S/4HANA consultant, in addition to the aforementioned skills, it is important to look for someone who has experience working with organizations like yours. This can include companies in your industry or of the same size, as well as those with similar business processes or challenges. As such, candidates should provide references from previous clients or employers who can attest to their expertise and professionalism. 

It is also important to consider the consultant’s approach to working with your organization as well. Some consultants may take a more hands-off approach, simply providing guidance and recommendations for your in-house team to implement. Others may take a more hands-on approach, working closely with your team to configure the software with ongoing support. Which approach is right for your organization will depend on your specific needs and preferences. 

Finally, it is important to assess the consultant’s fees and billing structure. Some consultants may charge a flat fee for their services, while others may bill by the hour or on a retainer basis. Be sure to clarify the billing structure up front to avoid any surprises later down the road. 

BCTG Can Help

Your SAP S/4HANA consultant should bring a combination of technical expertise, project management skills, training and support capabilities to your organization, and their past experience should reflect that of organizations similar to your own. It is also important to take note of the consultant’s approach to working, as well as their fees and billing structure, before taking the next steps. By carefully selecting an SAP S/4HANA consultant who meets these criteria, you can ensure a successful implementation.

Our team of expert staffing and recruiting professionals can help make the process easy for you, just contact us and we can find a consultant that is right for you.