- How hard is it to find and recruit SAP Business One consultants?
- What does an SAP Business One consultant do?
- What qualifications does an SAP Business One consultant need?
- How much can an SAP Business One consultant earn?
- Finding the right SAP Business One consultant
- How BPA Platform reduces development times and costs for integration and automation
- Codeless Platforms’ SAP Partner Programme
How hard is it to find and recruit SAP Business One consultants?
The shortage of IT talent, let alone SAP Business One consultants, has been widely reported for the past three years, and doesn’t seem to be getting resolved anytime soon.
In fact, according to a recent survey by Hays, almost 95% of employers looking for tech talent have encountered a skills shortage over the past year.
In its survey of 13,000 employers and workers in the UK, 1,400 of which were in tech, the recruitment and HR firm discovered that the skills shortage had hit new heights within the tech industry, citing competition from other employers as the main cause of skills shortages (80%).
One of the main causes for this is the fact that almost all organisations and businesses are looking to implement large-scale digital transformation projects, as well as to enhance their IT environments, including CRM, cloud and intelligent automation.
With every organisation looking to employ suitable employees to implement and manage their IT stacks, it is leading to this skills shortage, affecting not only the UK but also the US and European markets. As a result, it could be argued that there is no such thing as a tech sector anymore. The lines are just too blurred.
Despite the skills shortage, hiring plans remain consistently strong, with 84% of tech employers expecting to recruit in the next 12 months, on a par with 85% last year. However, 75% worry about insufficient numbers of suitable applicants when hiring in the year ahead, as well as continued competition from other employers (70%).
As a result of this shortage, it comes as no surprise that SAP partners and organisations that have deployed SAP Business One are experiencing difficulty in finding and recruiting SAP Business One consultants.
Recruiting SAP Business One consultants can be a challenging endeavour at the best of times, influenced by various factors that shape the availability and attractiveness of these specialised professionals in the job market.
There are several key aspects that contribute to the difficulty of recruiting individuals with SAP Business One expertise.
- Demand and Competition: The demand for SAP Business One consultants often outpaces the available supply. Many businesses across diverse industries recognise the value of SAP Business One in streamlining their operations. Consequently, competition among organisations seeking these consultants can intensify, making it challenging to secure top-tier talent.
- Skill Set and Experience: SAP Business One is a complex software solution with multiple modules and customisability options. Finding consultants with the right skill set, including a deep understanding of the software’s functionality, integration capabilities and customisation expertise, can be daunting. Experienced SAP Business One consultants who have successfully implemented the system in various contexts are particularly sought after, and their scarcity adds to the recruitment difficulty.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: Different industries may have unique requirements when it comes to SAP Business One implementations. Consultants with experience in a specific industry bring valuable insights into aligning the software with industry practices, compliance regulations and specialised processes. This industry-specific knowledge can be hard to find, especially in niche sectors.
- Geographical Factors: The ease of recruiting SAP Business One consultants can be influenced by geographical factors. In regions where technology and business hubs thrive, the demand for these consultants tends to be higher, making the recruitment process more competitive. Conversely, in areas where SAP Business One is less prevalent, finding local talent can be challenging.
- Competitive Compensation: Attracting top SAP Business One consultants requires offering competitive compensation packages. These professionals, given their specialised skills, command a higher remuneration, and organisations must be willing to invest to secure their services. Budget constraints can limit an organisation’s ability to attract the best candidates.
- Market Dynamics: The overall economic situation, technological trends and the prevalence of remote work options can impact recruitment efforts. In rapidly evolving tech landscapes, some SAP Business One consultants may prefer freelance or remote work arrangements, making it necessary for organisations to adapt their recruitment strategies accordingly.
- High Standards: Organisations often have high expectations for SAP Business One consultants, seeking individuals who not only possess technical skills but also excel in communication, problem-solving and project management. This combination of technical prowess and soft skills makes finding the right fit even more challenging.
Recruiting SAP Business One consultants is a complex task. Organisations must navigate a competitive landscape, consider geographical factors and be prepared to offer competitive compensation packages.
The unique skill set, experience and industry-specific knowledge required further contribute to the challenge. However, with a well-defined recruitment strategy, a compelling value proposition, and a commitment to investing in the right talent, organisations can overcome these difficulties and secure the expertise needed to successfully implement and optimise SAP Business One within their operations.
What does an SAP Business One consultant do?
An SAP Business One consultant is an IT professional with a unique skill set that revolves around one primary goal: helping businesses optimise their operations through the successful implementation and utilisation of SAP Business One.
This multifaceted role involves a range of responsibilities that require technical expertise, industry knowledge and effective communication skills. Let’s delve into the essential aspects of what an SAP Business One consultant does.
At the heart of their role is the ability to understand a company’s specific needs, challenges and objectives. This starts with meticulous requirements gathering. The consultant engages with clients to gain a deep understanding of their existing processes, workflows and pain points.
They work closely with various stakeholders to translate these requirements into a comprehensive SAP Business One solution. This initial phase is critical to ensure that the software aligns perfectly with the organisation’s unique business context.
Once the requirements are clear, the consultant embarks on the implementation journey. They configure and set up the SAP Business One software based on the client’s needs. This includes configuring various modules such as finance, inventory management, sales, purchasing, production, and more.
The consultant ensures that the system is tailored to the specific industry and operational demands of the client, making it a powerful tool for managing various aspects of the business.
Customisation is a significant part of the consultant’s role. Businesses often have unique processes that can’t be fully addressed by out-of-the-box software solutions.
A SAP Business One consultant usually has the expertise to develop customisations or suggest modifications to the software that accommodate these unique needs. This can involve developing new features, adding additional tools and software, creating new workflows or implementing system integrations that enhance the software’s capabilities and align it perfectly with the client’s operations.
Data migration is another critical aspect. Companies transitioning to SAP Business One need to transfer their data from existing systems to the new platform. The consultant ensures a seamless and accurate data migration process, making sure that vital business information is preserved and can be effectively utilised within the new system.
As we mentioned, integration is key in today’s interconnected business landscape, as SAP Business One often needs to work in conjunction with other systems and applications used by the client.
The consultant therefore needs to be skilled in integrating SAP Business One with these external tools, enabling smooth data flow, process automation and overall operational efficiency. This integration capability ensures that the client’s IT ecosystem functions as a cohesive unit.
Consultants therefore need to be familiar with specialised integration tools and methods. In the SAP market, especially where SAP Business One is concerned, software platforms such as the SAP-certified BPA Platform can provide consultants with a guaranteed integration solution that can make this process much simpler, cost effective and efficient.
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Effective knowledge transfer is a characteristic of a competent SAP Business One consultant. They provide comprehensive training to end-users, ensuring they can use the software to perform their daily tasks efficiently. This training empowers employees to use SAP Business One effectively, maximising its benefits across the organisation.
As businesses rely on SAP Business One to manage their critical operations, it’s essential to have dedicated support. Consultants are there to provide ongoing assistance. They troubleshoot issues, offer solutions to problems, and optimise the use of SAP Business One. This support is invaluable in maintaining the system’s performance and addressing any challenges that arise.
Documentation is another crucial part of the consultant’s role. They create and maintain documentation for configurations, customisations and processes related to SAP Business One. This documentation serves as a valuable resource for the client, helping them understand the system’s setup and providing guidance for future reference.
Project management skills are often essential for SAP Business One consultants, especially when overseeing complex implementations. They manage the implementation process, set timelines, allocate resources, and ensure a successful and timely deployment of SAP Business One. Effective project management is vital in achieving the desired outcomes and delivering value to the client.
However, the consultant’s role usually goes beyond the initial implementation by continuously seeking opportunities for process improvement. By identifying bottlenecks, suggesting best practices, and staying updated on the latest SAP Business One features, the consultant helps the client evolve, adapt and make the most of the software. This proactive approach ensures that the client’s investment in SAP Business One continues to deliver long-term benefits.
In essence, an SAP Business One consultant is a versatile professional who combines technical expertise, industry knowledge, project management skills, and a deep understanding of business needs. They play a pivotal role in driving the successful adoption of SAP Business One, empowering organisations to streamline their operations, enhance efficiency, and make informed decisions. Through their dedication and expertise, SAP Business One consultants contribute significantly to the growth and success of the businesses they serve.
What qualifications does an SAP Business One consultant need?
Qualifications for an SAP Business One consultant encompass a blend of technical expertise, industry knowledge and effective communication skills. This multifaceted role demands professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and business requirements while ensuring successful SAP Business One implementations.
SAP offers various certification courses covering its full range of technology, including SAP Business One, SAP Ariba and SAP S/4HANA, ranging from financial accounting and R&D engineering to asset management and sourcing and procurement. There are also certificates for Application Professionals, Development Professionals and Technology Professionals.
However, the most fundamental qualification that is required is certification in SAP Business One. This demonstrates a consultant’s mastery of the software’s core functionalities, configuration and best practices.
With SAP’s skill recognition programme, consultants can validate their skills from beginner to intermediate and advanced levels to become a trusted SAP expert.
In order to succeed, however, there are several other key qualifications that are essential for an SAP Business One consultant:
- Technical Proficiency: Consultants should have a deep understanding of the technical aspects of SAP Business One. This includes familiarity with database management, system configuration, user administration, and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues that may arise during implementation or operation.
- Business Process Knowledge: A successful SAP Business One consultant needs to comprehend diverse business processes. This involves understanding finance, sales, inventory management, procurement, production, and other operational aspects relevant to the client’s industry. Industry-specific knowledge is particularly valuable as it enables the consultant to tailor the system to meet unique requirements.
- Customisation and Integration Expertise: SAP Business One often requires customisations and integrations with other systems. A qualified consultant should possess the skills to develop custom solutions, extend the software’s functionality, and integrate it seamlessly with existing tools used by the client. A good knowledge and understanding of integration software, such as BPA Platform, is therefore an added advantage.
- Project Management Skills: The ability to manage projects is crucial for a consultant. This includes setting project timelines, allocating resources, coordinating tasks, and ensuring the implementation is completed within budget and on schedule.
- Communication and Training: Effective communication is essential. A consultant must be able to engage with clients, gather requirements, explain technical concepts in non-technical terms, and provide comprehensive training to end-users. Good communication skills facilitate a smooth implementation process and empower clients to utilise SAP Business One effectively.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Challenges can arise during implementation or in the post-implementation phase. A qualified consultant should possess strong problem-solving skills, allowing them to identify issues, analyse root causes, and provide effective solutions to ensure the software operates optimally.
- Industry Experience: Industry-specific experience is valuable, especially in sectors where regulations, compliance, or specialised workflows are crucial. Consultants with experience in a particular industry can offer insights that enhance the software’s alignment with industry needs.
- Continuous Learning: The technology landscape evolves, and SAP Business One is no exception. A qualified consultant should be committed to ongoing learning, staying updated on the latest features, updates, and industry trends related to SAP Business One.
- Client-Centric Approach: Ultimately, a successful SAP Business One consultant focuses on the client’s success. This requires a client-centric mindset, understanding their needs, and going the extra mile to deliver value through effective system implementation and support.
By meeting these qualifications, SAP Business One consultants can navigate the complexities of software implementation, align the system with the client’s unique requirements, and contribute significantly to the client’s overall business success.
How much can an SAP Business One consultant earn?
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an SAP Business One Consultant in the United Kingdom is about £59,000 per year. Entry level positions start at about £44,000 per year while the most experienced consultant can make up to £80,000 per year. The average hourly wage is about £30 per hour.
According to Salary.com, the average salary for an SAP Business One Consultant in the United States is $114,000, as of July 25, 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $103,000 and $129,000. The average hourly wage for an SAP Business One Consultant in the United States is $55.
Salary ranges and hourly rate can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years a consultant has spent in the profession.
Finding the right SAP Business One consultant
The difficulty in finding SAP Business One consultants by organisations hasn’t gone unnoticed by SAP itself. As well as providing all the various SAP courses and certifications, it has recently launched an online talent portal designed to match the right, newly-qualified consultant with the right SAP partner.
SAP Partner Talent Initiative Connect is available to all SAP partners in the EMEA North region to help further the accelerate the hiring of new consultants and attract more talent into the ecosystem.
Certified BPA Platform Consultants
Codeless Platforms provides all consultants with a free technical training course, extensive product education and ongoing support. Certified consultants also gain access to:
- Re-usable and repeatable integration and automation templates.
- Exclusive access to an extensive range of rapid install connectors, web services (REST or SOAP) or ODBC/OLEDB data sources.
- Regular product updates.
How BPA Platform reduces development times and costs for integration and automation
As we mentioned earlier, BPA Platform makes integration and business process automation a lot simpler and more efficient. It is designed specifically for SAP channel partners, consultants and enterprise customers who wish to connect SAP databases to third-party solutions and accelerate the automation of business processes.
SAP-certified, BPA Platform enables users to effortlessly connect applications, legacy systems, and web services, whether they’re in the cloud or on-premises, and then automate numerous business processes and tasks.
This low-code integration platform, which can be installed in the cloud (iPaaS) or on-premises, includes an intuitive design and graphical user interface, and a wealth of pre-built connectors and business process automation tools to reduce system integration development times and bring all data workflows together in one central location.
Plus, as the business evolves and grows, it is possible to easily scale, add, and integrate new systems and applications as and when business requirements change, without incurring extravagant costs.
BPA Platform also provides the tools needed to quickly and easily build automated processes that are unique to the way a business works. It allows for changing business environments by providing the flexibility for automated processes to be adapted or completely re-written to meet new conditions and acts as a ‘virtual’ employee that works 24/7, 365 days a year.
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“The flexibility of BPA Platform is remarkable. The things that you can do with it are out of this world. It never ceases to amaze me. It’s an incredibly efficient and powerful tool. I always equate BPA Platform to being a staff member that never sleeps. It’s like an incredibly efficient person, or team of people, checking data, that never stops.”
Codeless Platforms’ SAP Partner Programme
As a trusted partner, Codeless Platforms’ expertise and capabilities in process automation solutions helps SAP partners to win more deals, increase average order values, reduce financial risks and supplement existing services.
Adding BPA Platform to a portfolio also provides a wealth of new opportunities, extracting value from new and existing customers.
Joining Codeless Platforms’ SAP Partner Programme provides SAP Channel Partners with immediate access to an SAP-certified integration and automation platform, as well as full training and support.
Value Added Reseller Partner Programme
Whether Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze, Codeless Platforms’ VAR Partner Programmes are designed to work with system integrators and professional service organisations that deliver customer-facing solutions, consultation, implementation, integration and training.
As every partner is unique, these VAR partner programmes are tailored to each organisation’s specific requirements.
The financial benefits for VAR partners include:
- Competitive margins
- Ongoing revenue opportunities (recurring and consultancy)
- Value added services including implementation, customisation and training
- Integration and automation capabilities for clients
Referral Partner Programme
Codeless Platforms’ Referral Partner Programme enables organisations to earn monetary rewards from existing relationships by simply referring potential new customers.
The programme enables organisations to expand their product offering, providing more value to customers, whilst generating an additional source of revenue without any expense. Every converted referral earns 15% commission.
Financial benefits for referral partners include:
- Referral reward of 15%
- No financial investment or fees
- Demo accounts to increase product knowledge
- Online sales training and special offers
- Joint marketing activity, access to marketing materials
- Reciprocal lead generation
For more information on Codeless Platforms’ SAP Partner Programme or the benefits of SAP Business One integration, download the brochure below or call us on +44(0) 330 99 88 700.
