SAP Community - Certification

Reimagining Certification for the Way We Work Today

2025-11-05T11:21:05.659000+01:00

For decades, certifications exams have followed the same pattern: silent rooms, strict proctors, and no access to the tools you’d normally use to get work done. The goal was to test what you knew (or could remember) in that moment, not what you could actually do. But work doesn’t happen that way. And learning certainly doesn’t either.

Today, projects are fast paced, connected, and collaborative. When you’re solving a problem, you don’t sit in silence — you look for information, consult with teammates, and use the tools available to you. With AI now woven into how we all work, it’s time for certification to evolve too. That’s why we’re reimagining SAP Certification.

From memory to mastery

SAP Certification is shifting from proctored, multiple-choice tests to performance-based, practical, open-book assessments that mirror real work.

Instead of answering theoretical questions, you’ll complete realistic challenges that show how you actually apply your SAP knowledge — configuring systems, building applications, solving problems, or advising customers on solutions.

There are two types of practical exams:

System-based: You’ll perform time-boxed tasks directly in SAP systems.
Scenario-based: You’ll interact with an AI avatar to respond to real customer or project situations. (For learners who don’t want to use AI, we provide an alternative option to upload a video for human review.)

These ‘open-book’ exams allow access to resources like SAP Help Portal, SAP Learning site, SAP Community, or SAP Joule for Consultants — just as you would use in your daily work.

Learning that feels real

This transformation makes certification more meaningful and consistent with how you already learn. The types of practical exercises and scenarios you complete on the SAP Learning site now continue into the exam, so preparation and assessment feel like part of one experience.

Each exam is time-boxed and focused on proving you can do the work, not just recall facts. There’s no live proctoring; instead, identity is confirmed through SAP Universal ID, reflecting trust in how professionals really work. You’ll still have to think critically and manage your time, but you’ll do so in a context that mirrors your day-to-day work, not an artificial testing environment.

A phased rollout for all certifications

Beginning in November 2025, the first practical certifications, including Solution Architect for SAP Business Technology Platform, SAP Generative AI Developer, SAP Build Developer, SAP Business Data Cloud, SAP BTP System Administrator (new) and RISE with SAP Methodology and Experience (new,) will go live.

By 2026, all SAP Certifications will shift to this new, practical format. That means everyone – consultants, developers, administrators, or sales professionals – will validate their expertise in ways that reflect how work actually gets done.

Why this matters

At its core, this transformation is about trust that SAP Certification accurately represents real capability. For learners, it means your credential truly reflects your skills. For employers, it means confidence that a certified professional can perform from day one.

When we launch at SAP TechEd in Berlin, we’re not just transforming certification; we’re redefining what it means to be skilled in the AI era. And for learners everywhere, that means your effort and experience now matter more than ever.

To learn more about our reimagined certification model, visit SAP Certification and read the FAQ.

Certificações SAP: mudança para formato prático e open-book

2025-11-12T14:37:54.068000+01:00

💼Certificação SAP: novo formato prático em implementação

A SAP está transformando o formato das certificações para refletir melhor a forma como trabalhamos atualmente.

O que muda: Ao invés de questões teóricas de múltipla escolha, o novo formato inclui:

Tarefas práticas em sistemas SAP reais
Cenários simulados com avatares de IA representando situações de clientes
Acesso a recursos como SAP Help, Community e Joule durante o exame

A proposta é alinhar a certificação com o ambiente de trabalho real: colaborativo, conectado e com IA integrada.

Mais informações: https://community.sap.com/t5/sap-learning-blog-posts/reimagining-certification-for-the-way-we-work-today/ba-p/14261141

How to Prepare for SAP’s New Certification

2025-11-13T14:00:18.140000+01:00

For years, SAP certification relied on multiple-choice questions and memorized answers. That approach no longer fits the realities of modern SAP work, where professionals configure systems, solve business problems, and increasingly collaborate with AI-driven tools. Simply recalling information isn’t enough.

The new SAP certification model shifts the focus from “knowing SAP” to “doing SAP,” i.e., applying skills in real-world scenarios, navigating tools, and demonstrating practical competence.

If you’re planning to get certified soon, your preparation needs to evolve with it.

What’s Changing and What It Means for Your Preparation

SAP’s new practical certification exams introduce a more authentic and performance-oriented approach to skill validation. Instead of testing whether you can recall a configuration detail, the new exams examine whether you can complete tasks, solve problems, and make decisions in situations that resemble real project environments.

They use two primary formats: System-based assessment and Scenario-based assessment.

The System-based assessment is where learners work inside a time-limited SAP system simulation. You are required to perform actual tasks, such as configuring components, building processes, developing artifacts, or resolving issues, just as you would in a project environment. The assessment measures your fluency in SAP tools, your ability to execute steps accurately, and your ability to apply best practices in a live system.

The Scenario-based assessment places you in time-limited role-play situations with an AI avatar. In these scenarios, you must pitch SAP solutions, advise on architecture, justify design choices, respond to stakeholder concerns, and guide the conversation toward appropriate outcomes. Rather than executing system tasks, this format evaluates how you think, communicate, analyse requirements, and represent SAP’s capabilities in a business context.

Each certification will use only one format, either system-based or scenario-based, depending on the nature of the role being assessed. Technical roles emphasise hands-on execution, while consulting and architecture roles prioritise analytical and advisory depth. This creates a more precise and meaningful measurement of job readiness.

The exams are also now open-book, allowing access to documentation, help portals, and AI-assisted guidance during the assessment. This change reflects how professionals actually work. They consult resources, verify information, test assumptions, and use intelligent tools like SAP Joule to support decision-making. The exam rewards the ability to locate, interpret, and apply information under realistic constraints.

SAP is rolling out this new model in phases. The first six certifications are already live and have received a strong response from the ecosystem.

Click this link to access the SAP Certifications featuring practical exams.

How to Prepare for SAP's New Certification

Train on SAP Systems

Hands-on experience is now the most important part of certification readiness. Since the new exams rely heavily on real system usage or scenario execution, you must become comfortable navigating SAP environments directly. Spend time configuring components, building workflows, testing integrations, and troubleshooting issues in SAP BTP, SAP Build, and other relevant tools.

Memorizing theory will not substitute for actual system familiarity, so create consistent practice sessions that mirror the tasks you expect to face in real projects.

Adopt an Open-Book Learning Mindset

Because SAP’s new exams allow access to documentation and official resources, your success depends on how efficiently you can locate and apply information. Instead of trying to memorize every detail, shift your focus toward learning how SAP documentation is structured, where key topics are located, and how to interpret guidance quickly under time constraints.

During preparation, challenge yourself to answer questions by navigating documentation rather than recalling facts.

Practise Scenario-Based Problem Solving

The new certification format rewards professionals who can think in end-to-end scenarios rather than isolated tasks. To build this skill, spend time working through full business situations that could appear in an exam.

Imagine a client wants to automate approval workflows, integrate an external application, or modernize their analytics landscape. Break down how you would approach the requirement, which SAP tools you would use, what architecture makes sense, and what risks or trade-offs you would consider.

The more you practise this style of thinking, the more natural it becomes to articulate decisions and explain your reasoning during a scenario-based assessment.

Strengthen Your Architecture and Data Foundations

Modern SAP work revolves around cloud services, data modeling, integration patterns, event-driven design, and automation. To prepare for the new certifications, make time to revisit these fundamentals. Understanding how components fit together will help you make informed decisions, whether you are configuring a system or advising a simulated stakeholder. This broader technical foundation also enables you to respond effectively during role-plays that require architectural justification or strategic recommendations.

Build a Continuous Learning Habit

The redesigned certification model encourages professionals to keep their skills active rather than rely on one-time exam success. As SAP continues to evolve its tools and expand its AI-driven capabilities, staying connected to the ecosystem, whether through hands-on practice, learning content, or experimentation with new features, will help you remain prepared for renewals and future certifications.

What These Changes Mean for Your Career

The new certification format narrows the gap between being certified and being project-ready.

As the assessments test actual capability, credentials earned under this model will carry greater weight with employers seeking professionals who can contribute immediately. It also shifts the ecosystem toward continuous learning, where staying certified means staying active, hands-on, and connected to SAP’s evolving technologies.

The certifications also mark an important milestone in SAP’s broader commitment to equip 12 million people worldwide with AI-ready skills by 2030.

If you approach your learning with the mindset of becoming truly project-ready rather than simply exam-ready, you will not only succeed in the new certification format but also build a stronger, more sustainable foundation for your SAP career.

The exam has evolved, and your preparation needs to evolve with it, too.

Certified Excellence: How Cognizant Sets the Benchmark for Driving Real SAP Transformation

2025-11-14T16:40:08.041000+01:00

Our longstanding partner Cognizant sheds light on how it is redefining SAP services for a cloud-first, AI-powered world.

In this interview, Sivakumar Varadananjayan, Assistant Vice President and Delivery Head – SAP Cloud & SAP GGM Product and Resources (Global Growth Market) at Cognizant Technology Solutions, shares insights about Cognizant's Path from ERP to AI-Powered, Industry-Focused Innovation. As the leader of Cognizant’s SAP Certification initiative and its Validation Partner status, Sivakumar also shares his perspective on Cognizant’s renewed global certifications, the evolution of their SAP certification journey, and how they plan to further expand their SAP competencies to support customers. The conversation was conducted during Cognizant’s SAP Certification process, together with Christophe André, SAP Auditor and Partner Manager, who led the audit at Cognizant, and Hossam Saad, SAP Partner Manager and Cognizant’s main point of contact.

Sivakumar outlines how they have evolved from traditional ERP implementations to a transformation model centered on automation, intelligence, and industry specificity. He also discusses their role as a RISE with SAP Validated Partner, its commitment to SAP Best Practices, and how cloud migrations are accelerated through clean-core principles and end-to-end governance. With renewed global SAP certifications, expanded security capabilities, and deep DevOps integration, Cognizant positions itself as a pioneer in secure, future-ready SAP transformation. Looking ahead, Sivakumar shares how continued investment in talent, co-innovation, and industry-focused solutions will shape the next chapter of intelligent enterprise modernization.

Christophe: Cognizant is globally known for providing SAP-related services. How have you been adapting your services to ever-changing customer needs and technology innovations?

Sivakumar: Adaptability is at the heart of Cognizant’s SAP strategy. Over the past decade, we’ve transitioned from traditional ERP implementations to cloud-first, AI-enabled, and automation-driven models. Our approach focuses on three pillars:

Cloud Enablement: We leverage SAP S/4HANA Cloud and SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) to deliver scalable, resilient architectures that support rapid innovation and business agility.
Intelligent Automation: Through SAP Business AI, Joule Agents, and Cognizant’s Automation Fabric, we integrate robotic process automation and generative AI into SAP workflows, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy.
Customer-Centric Design: We co-innovate with clients using SAP’s cloud solutions and industry accelerators, ensuring transformation aligns with their business priorities and delivers measurable outcomes.

Innovation is embedded in every stage – from RISE with SAP S/4HANA Conversions to AI-powered solutions like SAP-Certified Case Management AI Agent for SAP and Finance4U® for industry-specific needs. These capabilities enable real-time insights, predictive analytics, and continuous modernization, helping clients thrive in a rapidly changing digital economy.

Christophe: Cognizant positions itself as a pioneer in leveraging SAP Business Suite, cloud ERP, and Business AI. How do you tailor your SAP services to address industry-specific challenges, and what role does innovation play?

Sivakumar: Cognizant tailors its SAP services through a deep industry-in-context approach - combining process expertise, data intelligence, and AI-driven automation to address the unique challenges of each sector. Our strategy integrates SAP Business Suite, cloud ERP, and Business AI with domain accelerators, industry templates, and pre-built integration frameworks that shorten time-to-value and enhance business agility.

Innovation is embedded in every stage - from co-innovation with SAP and hyperscale cloud platforms to leveraging SAP Business AI, developing digital twins, and advanced analytics for continuous transformation. This ensures that clients don’t just modernize their ERP landscape but also unlock new business models, improve decision velocity, and stay future-ready in an AI-enabled economy.

A strong example of this innovation-led, industry-tailored approach is reflected in Cognizant’s Utegration portfolio for utilities and energy enterprises:

Finance4U® Extended Asset Accounting: Enhances SAP property accounting with regulatory-compliant, utility-specific asset management capabilities.
Finance4U® Regulatory Accounting and Reporting: Streamlines regulated financial reporting, improving data accuracy and audit readiness.
Utility4U™: A RISE with SAP-based cloud accelerator that modernizes and simplifies the utility ERP landscape while embedding industry best practices.
MeterData4U®: Unlocks the value of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) by integrating and operationalizing meter data within SAP environments.

Together, these offerings demonstrate how Cognizant combines deep domain experience with SAP innovation to deliver measurable outcomes across industries - from operational efficiency to intelligent, data-driven growth.

Hossam: As a “RISE with SAP Validated Partner,” what has been your experience in leading SAP customers’ migration to cloud? How are your services modeled around SAP Best Practices?

Sivakumar: As a RISE with SAP Validated Partner, our experience in leading SAP customers’ migration to the cloud has been extensive and transformative. We have successfully delivered large-scale migrations for global enterprises using SAP’s validated methodology, ensuring predictable timelines, reduced risks, and accelerated time-to-value. Our approach emphasizes clean core principles with embedded quality gates, supported by SAP Cloud ALM for governance and compliance.

Our services are modelled around SAP Best Practices, integrating SAP’s ecosystem tools such as Cloud ALM, LeanIX, Signavio, Business Technology Platform (BTP), Joule, and Tricentis Test Automation. This toolchain enables automation, collaboration, and robust governance throughout the migration journey. Additionally, all key roles - Project Managers, Architects, Developers, and Consultants - are SAP-certified and trained on the latest cloud and AI innovations, ensuring customers are positioned for continuous innovation post-migration.

Finally, we focus on delivering customer-centric outcomes by accelerating cloud transformation with minimal disruption and ensuring smooth migration from ECC or on-premise systems to SAP S/4HANA Cloud. By leveraging SAP Best Practices and validated frameworks, we provide transparent, milestone-driven projects that reduce risk and deliver predictable results. Our engagements consistently achieve high satisfaction scores, reflecting our commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term customer success.

Christophe: Cognizant recently renewed global certifications for SAP Business Suite and SAP S/4HANA services and achieved its first global certification for SAP security operations. How do your competencies in DevOps, Security, and Business AI add value?

Sivakumar: Cognizant’s renewed global certifications for SAP Business Suite and SAP S/4HANA services, along with its first global certification for SAP Security Operations, reinforce our ability to deliver secure, agile, and intelligent SAP transformations. These credentials validate our expertise in modernizing SAP landscapes while ensuring compliance and resilience for mission-critical environments.

Our DevOps competency accelerates SAP delivery through automated CI/CD pipelines, enabling rapid release cycles, improved quality, and seamless integration with RISE with SAP and cloud platforms. In parallel, our Security Operations capability provides proactive threat management, robust identity governance, and real-time monitoring - critical for industries with stringent regulatory requirements. Internally, Cognizant leverages a DevOps for a Unified Competency Management model across SAP competencies to bring people, process, and knowledge together around the work we do.

Finally, Business AI brings intelligence into SAP workflows by embedding predictive analytics, generative AI, and automation. This drives faster decision-making, reduces manual effort, and unlocks new business models across sectors. Together, these strengths position Cognizant as a trusted partner for enterprises seeking secure, automated, and AI-powered SAP transformations.

Hossam: How has your SAP certification journey evolved - from your first global certification in 2011 to today? What motivated you initially, and how has your approach changed?

Sivakumar: As you have rightly pointed out, Cognizant’s SAP global certification journey began in 2011, when we became one of the earliest partners to achieve SAP Cloud Certification. At that time, our motivation was clear: to build client confidence, demonstrate market leadership, and align with our vision of driving enterprise modernization through cloud-first strategies. This milestone positioned us ahead of industry trends and validated our ability to deliver secure, scalable SAP solutions.

Since then, our approach has evolved from meeting compliance standards to driving continuous innovation. Today, certifications are part of a broader strategy focused on SAP S/4HANA, SAP BTP, and RISE with SAP, integrating AI, automation, and sustainability into transformation programs. We’ve expanded from core ERP to end-to-end digital solutions, strengthened partnerships with SAP and hyperscale cloud providers, and invested heavily in talent development through role-based certifications. For us, certification is no longer a one-time achievement - it’s a continuous journey to deliver measurable business outcomes and stay ahead of client needs.

Hossam: Looking ahead, how do you plan to grow your SAP competency and services to support customers?

Sivakumar: Cognizant plans to deepen its SAP competency by focusing on next-generation technologies such as SAP Business AI and industry-specific solutions developed and integrated leveraging SAP BTP. We are investing in advanced capabilities around RISE with SAP, SAP BTP, and SAP S/4HANA transformations, ensuring clients can accelerate their cloud journeys with agility and resilience. Our strategy includes embedding AI-driven automation, predictive analytics, and sustainability frameworks into SAP landscapes, enabling customers to unlock new business models and achieve measurable outcomes. These innovations will be supported by strong partnerships with SAP and hyperscale cloud providers to deliver integrated, multi-cloud architectures tailored to client needs.

Information on the certification program for operations partners and an overview of all certified partners can be found in the SAP Operations Partner Guide.

Visit OPC at SAP.com or on the SAP Partner Portal.

Fast & Curious: The Making of an SAP Champion

2025-11-19T12:53:30.851000+01:00

On a Saturday morning in Hyderabad, Ruthvik Chowdary might be cruising towards a new destination with his playlist ready or volunteering at an SAP Inside Track event. Whether navigating winding roads or meeting fellow tech enthusiasts, Ruthvik thrives on exploring places, ideas, and opportunities.

That same spirit of discovery led him to SAP technology.

Inspired by his uncle, an experienced SAP Solution Architect, Ruthvik’s curiosity sparked during college. “He would discuss the problems he solved and SAP’s impact on businesses. It made him want to dive in.” And with his growing interest in manufacturing, it became the perfect starting point.

Guided by mentors and managers, Ruthvik soon broadened his expertise across the entire supply chain. He earned SAP Certifications spanning SAP Quality Management to SAP Extended Warehouse Management and now, as a Supply Chain Manager at Deloitte, confidently designs and optimizes end-to-end processes.

His breakthrough came during a training with a simulated supply bottleneck where he applied his knowledge to solve it. “That was when everything clicked. I understood not just the ‘how,’ but the ‘why.’ It was empowering.”

The path, however, was not without challenges. Ruthvik wrestled with complex configurations and moments of self-doubt early in his journey. “I wondered if I was really suited for SAP products.” Encouragement from his mentor, manager, and uncle reminded him that every expert starts as a beginner.

What continues to amaze him is SAP’s vastness and the constant innovation in cloud technologies. “It’s like an ocean. There’s always something new to learn.” Along the way, he developed unexpected strengths in communication and client engagement, becoming a trusted problem solver and mentor to others.

One of his proudest moments was being recognized as an SAP Champion for his contributions to the community. “Knowing my blogs helped others, even in interviews, is incredibly rewarding.”

From shadow consultant to SAP Champion, Ruthvik’s story is one of persistence, passion, and purpose. His advice to new learners is simple: “Dive in, stay curious, and do not be afraid to ask for help. The rewards are worth it.”

Ready to begin your own adventure? Explore structured learning journeys and certifications on the SAP Learning site and discover where curiosity can take you.

SAP Certification Is Changing: What You Need to Know About the New Format

2025-11-25T12:29:58.456000+01:00

If you’ve been following SAP’s certification updates, you’ll know things are changing in a big way. The traditional multiple-choice exams are being replaced with a much more practical approach. I recently went through all the latest materials and sessions about the new SAP certification format, especially for SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC), and I want to share what I learned and how you can prepare.

Why Is SAP Changing Its Certification Format?

SAP wants certifications to mean more than just passing a test. The new format is designed to make sure certified professionals can actually do the work required on real SAP projects. Instead of just memorizing theory, you’ll be asked to solve problems and perform tasks that you’d encounter in your day-to-day job. This shift is great news for both candidates and employers. Companies can trust that certified consultants are ready for hands-on work, and candidates can show they’re truly job-ready.

What’s Different About the New Exams?

The biggest change is the move to performance-based assessments. You’ll be asked to complete tasks in a simulated SAP system, or respond to real-world scenarios, sometimes interacting with an AI avatar or submitting a video response. You can use SAP Help Portal, SAP Learning, and even SAP Joule (the AI tool) during the exam, just like you would on a real project. This open-book style makes the exam feel much more like actual work.

You also get to choose how you want to be assessed for some parts: either through an AI role-play or by uploading a video. After you finish, you’ll receive instant feedback, including analytics on your technical depth and communication skills.

Role-Based Certifications and Staying Certified

SAP certifications are now tailored to specific job roles, such as developer, administrator, or architect. This means the exam content is more relevant to what you’ll actually do in your role. Certifications aren’t permanent anymore. You’ll need to complete a “stay-certified” assessment each year to keep your credential active. This helps ensure everyone stays up to date with the latest SAP technology and best practices.

Timeline for the New Format

The rollout starts in November 2025 for selected exams, including SAP BTP Administrator, SAP Build Developer, Solution Architect – SAP BTP, SAP Business Data Cloud, and SAP Generative AI Developer. By 2026, all SAP certifications will use this new practical format.

What Hasn’t Changed?

You’ll still get a digital badge when you pass, and the registration process is the same as before. If you already have a certification, it remains valid, but you’ll need to follow the renewal process to keep it active.

How Should You Prepare?

Focus on building practical SAP skills. Spend time working in SAP simulation environments, and practice explaining SAP solutions clearly and simply. Get comfortable with timed tasks and AI evaluation, and make sure your laptop, internet, webcam, and audio all meet SAP’s technical requirements before exam day.

Spotlight on SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) Certification

The BDC certification is a great example of the new approach. It covers foundational knowledge and practical skills in SAP Business Data Cloud. The assessment includes technical knowledge of BDC, integration with SAP Business Warehouse, SAP Analytics Cloud, SAP Datasphere, and SAP Databricks. To earn the badge, you’ll need to complete the recommended SAP Learning Journey and pass the C_BCBDC exam. Remember to renew your badge every year.

Exam questions breakdown from my attempt:

Technical Knowledge of BDC (40%)
Integration with SAP Business Warehouse (15%)
Technical Knowledge of SAP Analytics Cloud (15%)
Technical Knowledge of SAP Datasphere (15%)
Technical Knowledge of SAP Databricks (15%)

Tips for Success

Take your time and use the pause button to think before you answer. Break your responses into clear chunks, and don’t worry about giving too much information, there’s no penalty for being thorough. Read the feedback you get and use it to improve before your next attempt. And don’t rush; you have plenty of time.

Useful Links

Here are some resources that helped me:

Final Thoughts

SAP’s new certification format is a big step forward. It’s designed to make sure credentials really mean something and that certified professionals are ready for real project work. If you’re preparing for the SAP Business Data Cloud certification, focus on practical skills, clear communication, and continuous learning. The future of SAP certification is here, and it’s all about being ready for the real world.

If you have questions or want to share your experience with the new SAP certification, I’d love to hear from you in the comments.

Westernacher Achieves SAP S/4HANA Operations Certification: A Benchmark in Cloud-Ready Excellence

2025-11-26T17:13:20.780000+01:00

Our longstanding SAP partner, Westernacher Business Management Consulting GmbH, was recently certified for the first time for SAP S/4HANA solution operations. In this interview, Martin Espenschied, Global Practice Lead Continuous Improvement & AMS at Westernacher, reflects on their motivation for pursuing the certification, their experience during the audit, and how the achievement strengthens their global positioning within the SAP ecosystem. He also shares how they support customers across the full SAP transformation lifecycle - from strategy and implementation to operations and continuous improvement. As a globally active SAP consulting leader, Westernacher discusses its evolving 30-year partnership with SAP and the milestones that have shaped its journey. A key focus is the company’s expanding role in cloud transformation, including S/4HANA Cloud migrations, process optimization with SAP Signavio, lifecycle management with SAP Cloud ALM, and innovation enablement via SAP BTP.

Could you start by telling us about your company and the services you offer?

Westernacher Consulting is an internationally operating consulting group for business and information technologies. Since 1969, we have been supporting well-known businesses globally and locally in realizing their vision. We help achieve business and SAP strategies through established experience in a variety of industries, as well as proven competency in the areas of Digital Transformation, Warehouse, Yard and Transport Logistics, Enterprise Management, Supply Chain Planning, Industry 4.0 & Internet of Things, Business Analytics, and Client Engagement & Commerce.

Today, Westernacher operates as one of the leading SAP partners worldwide and is fully owned by its employees. We focus on quality, sustainability, and long-term relationships with our business partners.

Westernacher’s core strengths are best-practice processes and SAP consulting, combining innovative technologies with integrated solutions that enable clients to execute their business strategy holistically.

Our service portfolio spans the entire lifecycle of SAP-driven transformation - from early strategy to daily operations. This includes pre-project assessments and feasibility studies, global rollouts and SAP implementations (including custom developments), process consulting and enterprise architecture, as well as project and change management.

At Westernacher, Application Management Services (AMS) and Continuous Improvement form a comprehensive, forward-looking framework that supports and enhances SAP S/4HANA and connected landscapes. Our AMS offering goes far beyond traditional support. We provide end-to-end SAP operations for SAP S/4HANA and connected landscapes, covering incident, request, and problem management supported by proactive monitoring. We ensure safe and efficient change cycles through structured release and test management. In addition, our continuous improvement approach connects operational insights with business KPIs and clean-core principles to deliver measurable value. Governance and SLA-driven service delivery are supported by SAP Cloud ALM as a central platform for transparency, automation, and lifecycle management.

As an SAP partner for almost 30 years, how has your partnership evolved, and what have been the most significant milestones or highlights in your collaboration with SAP?

Westernacher has been an SAP partner for almost three decades, and this collaboration has evolved from early ERP implementations to delivering next-generation cloud solutions and managed services. Some of the most significant milestones include:

1990s – Early SAP ERP Expertise
We began with SAP R/3 implementations, transforming the IT landscape of big German companies, and building deep process knowledge in Finance, Logistics, and Supply Chain.
2000s – Global Expansion & Industry Leadership
Westernacher grew internationally, supporting complex global rollouts and becoming recognized for best-practice process consulting.
2010s – Innovation & Digital Transformation
We embraced SAP HANA, took part in the very first EWM implementation, and pioneered in EWM, TM, and YL across the globe, helping customers modernize operations and integrate advanced automation into their SAP solutions.
2020s – Cloud & Continuous Improvement
Today, we are an SAP Gold Partner delivering S/4HANA cloud solutions leveraging SAP Signavio for process mining and optimization and LeanIX for enterprise architecture transparency and impact analysis, ensuring controlled change and innovation. All supported by our Application Management Services (AMS) with a strong focus on continuous improvement and clean-core principles.
SAP Certifications & Recognitions
We achieved SAP Partner Center of Expertise (PCoE) certification and SAP Operations Partner Certification for SAP S/4HANA, validating our ability to run and improve SAP landscapes at scale.

SAP is strongly focusing on the cloud and encourages partners to support customers in their migration journey. Do you plan to further expand your cloud-related services, and how are you already helping customers in this area?

Cloud is at the center of our strategy, and we are continuously expanding our cloud-related services to help customers accelerate their transformation journey. Our approach combines technical expertise, governance, and business process optimization to ensure migrations deliver real business value - not just infrastructure change.

In practice, we are already supporting customers in multiple areas of their cloud transformation.

We accompany organizations through SAP S/4HANA Cloud (Private Edition) migrations, guiding them with readiness assessments, clean-core strategies, and end-to-end transition roadmaps as part of RISE with SAP programs.

A key pillar of our support is Cloud ALM for Lifecycle Management. We implement SAP Cloud ALM to manage projects, operations, and continuous improvement in a cloud-native environment.

In parallel, we offer Process Optimization with SAP Signavio to help customers analyze, optimize, and redesign their processes before migration, ensuring fit-to-standard and reducing unnecessary custom code.

For Enterprise Architecture Transparency and Impact Assessment, we leverage LeanIX, enabling controlled and predictable cloud transitions.

Our Application Management Services also extend fully to Cloud Landscapes - whether hybrid, private, or public cloud - where we provide proactive monitoring, automation, and structured release management.

Finally, we Enable Innovation by integrating SAP BTP for extensibility and new capabilities, ensuring customers can adopt innovations without compromising clean-core principles.

For the future we are investing in automation, AI-driven monitoring, and advanced testing for cloud environments, as well as expanding our global delivery model to support multi-region migrations and post-go-live optimization.

With Westernacher delivering services across 25 countries, how do you address the different customer expectations and requirements related to SAP Cloud solutions?

Operating in more than 25 countries means we encounter different regulatory environments, cultural nuances, and business priorities. We address these variations through a globally consistent framework combined with local flexibility:

Global Standards, Local presence and adaptation: We apply a standardized delivery model based on SAP best practices (Activate, Cloud ALM, Signavio, LeanIX) while adapting to local compliance, language, and operational requirements.

Regional Expertise & Local Consultants: Our delivery teams include local consultants who understand cultural and legal specifics, ensuring smooth communication and adherence to country-specific regulations (e.g., data residency, GDPR).

Flexible Service Design: We tailor SLAs, governance models, and reporting to match customer expectations, whether they prioritize speed, cost efficiency, or innovation.

Industry-Specific Templates: Using SAP Signavio process mining and LeanIX architecture mapping, we create migration and optimization templates that reflect both global standards and local business processes.

Continuous Improvement Across Regions: Our AMS practice runs a global CI backlog but prioritizes regional needs, ensuring enhancements benefit all our clients while focusing on local priorities.

You were recently certified for the first time for SAP S/4HANA solutions operations. What motivated you to pursue this certification at this stage of your company’s journey?

We were motivated by two key factors: the imperative to build customer trust and the importance of ensuring strategic alignment with SAP’s vision.

Customer Confidence in Operational Excellence: As more of our clients move to SAP S/4HANA and cloud landscapes, they expect partners who can guarantee stable, secure, and continuously optimized operations. Certification validates that our AMS practice meets SAP’s highest standards for lifecycle management, monitoring, and proactive improvement. We’ve always positioned AMS as more than “keeping the lights on.” This certification reinforces our ability to deliver predictable service quality, structured governance, and continuous improvement

Alignment with SAP’s Cloud Strategy: SAP is driving RISE with SAP, Cloud ALM, and clean-core principles. By certifying now, we demonstrate readiness to support customers in hybrid and cloud-native environments, leveraging tools like SAP Cloud ALM, SAP Signavio, and SAP LeanIX for process optimization and lifecycle transparency. The certification sets us apart as a partner who not only implements SAP solutions but also runs and improves them sustainably - a critical differentiator for global AMS engagements.

How would you describe your experience with the audit? Did it provide any valuable insights or ideas for further improvement?

The audit was a highly structured and collaborative process, and we viewed it as more than a compliance exercise. It was an opportunity to benchmark our AMS operations against SAP’s best practices. Several noteworthy findings emerged from the audit:

Validation of Strengths: The audit confirmed that our governance model, SLA framework, and continuous improvement approach are aligned with SAP’s standards for S/4HANA operations.
Tooling Excellence: Our use of SAP Cloud ALM, SAP Signavio, and SAP LeanIX for lifecycle management and process optimization was highlighted as a differentiator.
Knowledge Management & Documentation: The review reinforced the importance of maintaining centralized, audit-ready documentation for processes, KPIs, and improvement initiatives - something we already prioritize but will continue to refine.

The audit also provided several valuable insights that will guide our further improvements:

Automation Opportunities: The audit encouraged us to accelerate test automation and proactive automated monitoring to reduce manual effort and improve predictability.
Global Consistency: While our regional teams perform strongly, we identified opportunities to standardize across all delivery centers
Enhanced Use of SAP Cloud ALM Analytics: Leveraging deeper analytics in Cloud ALM for predictive insights and trend-based improvement was a key takeaway.

Overall, the audit validated our “run and improve” philosophy and gave us actionable ideas to make our AMS practice even more efficient, scalable, and future-ready.

The Westernacher team together with the SAP auditor during the S/4HANA operations certification audit, October 2025

Do you expect the certification to support your marketing activities and strengthen communication with your customers?

Yes, absolutely. The SAP S/4HANA Operations Certification is more than a technical achievement. It is a trust signal for our customers and prospects. It demonstrates that Westernacher meets SAP’s highest standards for operational excellence, lifecycle management, and continuous improvement, and supports marketing and communication by:

Differentiation in the Market: The certification positions us as a partner who not only implements SAP solutions but also runs and optimizes them sustainably, which is a key decision factor for AMS and cloud engagements.
Customer Confidence: It reinforces our credibility when discussing RISE with SAP, cloud migrations, and AMS services, making conversations more persuasive and value-driven.
Co-Marketing Opportunities with SAP: The certification opens doors for joint success stories, webinars, and campaigns, leveraging SAP’s ecosystem to amplify our reach.
New Market Focus: With this certification, we will actively market AMS not only as a natural extension of our implementation projects but also as a standalone service for external clients where we did not perform the SAP implementation. This expands our reach and positions AMS as a strategic offering for any SAP customer seeking operational excellence and continuous improvement.

In short, the certification strengthens our brand promise and helps us communicate a clear message: Westernacher delivers SAP operations at a globally recognized standard, backed by continuous improvement and cloud readiness.

Information on the certification program for operations partners and an overview of all certified partners can be found in the SAP Operations Partner Guide.

Visit OPC at SAP.com or on the SAP Partner Portal.

My Experience with the New SAP Exam Format (2026)

2025-12-14T11:52:49.009000+01:00

Starting from November 2025, SAP officially introduced a significant change to its certification journey: an open-book, scenario-based exam format. This new approach is currently in pilot for selected certifications, including the SAP BTP Solution Architect exam.

Details about format here: Reimagining certification in the age of AI

Last week, I had the chance to take this new exam for the certificate “SAP BTP Solution Architect” and I want to share my honest experience, especially for those preparing for it soon.

After reading the new update from SAP (above link), I learn some more details in a blog in SAP community:

How to Prepare for SAP’s New Certification — SAP Community

However, it’s still not very clear for me how it looks like in the actual exam. So I gave it a try. For the “SAP BTP Solution Architect”, it’s a “scenario-based” exam format, where you need to play the role of a solution architect, designing the solution for a use case, then pitch the solution to AI avatar, or record a video and upload for expert review.

Unlike the previous exam format, where you need to setup some software (private browser) to take a prottor-monitored multiple-choice exam, in this new format, you will start directly from SAP learning website. This is the first look at the new exam format.

(To have this view, you must have purchased the SAP Certification Subcription; I will share in another post)

SAP Certificate landing page, where you can start the exam

After pressing on the “Go to Certification Exam”, the website will open a wizard like dialog to guide you through the process, which is quite user friendly:

SAP Certification Exam — Scenario Based Assessment — AI Roleplay

For the exam of “Solution Architect”, you will be assigned to a use case, where you play the architect role to propose a solution to project stakeholders. The use case resembles the actual use case in one project.

For example, in my exam, I need to design a soluton for Field Service Maintainance Engineer to efficiently get and update data with S/4 systems, while they’re working at customer site.

After reading the use case, once you’re ready, you can choose 1 out of 2 options to proceed with the pitching part.

For the next step, you will have 2 options to join the xam:

AI Roleplay with AI Guidance.
Record Video with Human Review.

I tried both, and share my experience as below:

1. A Fresh Concept: Scenario-Based + AI Roleplay

The most exciting part of the new format is the “Roleplay with AI” feature. Instead of answering static questions, you interact with an AI avatar acting as your stakeholder, and you must propose and justify your architecture on SAP BTP.

This idea is brilliant — it mimics real project work and tests your ability to think, design, and explain like a true architect.

However… the reality wasn’t as smooth as expected.

2. Technical Issues: The AI Mode Was Not Stable

Despite an impressive concept, the AI roleplay mode repeatedly failed during my attempts. I tried everything:

Company laptop and personal MacBook
Corporate network, home Wi-Fi, mobile hotspot
Multiple browsers and system setups

Yet the final step always returned the same message:

“An error occurred. Please refresh the page and try again. If the issue persists, contact the support team for assistance.”

AI Roleplay option — error

The other option with Human review also didn’t work:

Human review option — error

Since SAP requires exam submission within 24 hours, the pressure was real. I opened a support ticket, but even after a full working day, there was no response.

3. The Backup Plan: Human Review

Fortunately, late in the day, one of my setups finally allowed me to switch to the “Traditional Assessment” option, with human review my recording. This required me to:

Record and upload a video explaining my architecture
Wait for a manual evaluation by an SAP expert

For this option, things are very “generic”. SAP does not provides any details on the expectation of the video. All you can do is to prepare the best solution, and present it, during the 2 hours period.

After submitting your video, you will get the result immediately with the AI Roleplace approach. But with the human review approach, you will need to wait for a long time to get the result. During this period, if you enter the certification page again, you will get the “In Review” status:

The downside?
The waiting time for results is now 20 days.
This delay is a huge gap in the expectation of exam taker in this fast-paced world.

4. Final Thoughts: Great Idea, but Needs Stability

I truly appreciate SAP’s direction. A scenario-based, open-book exam that simulates real project challenges is the right way forward. It evaluates real skills — not memorization.

But the instability of the AI mode currently holds back the full potential of this format. When candidates must fall back to manual review, the process becomes:

Slow
Costly
Frustrating
Uncertain

For exam takers, waiting nearly a month for results is a painful experience.

5. Looking Ahead

I hope SAP can quickly stabilize the AI roleplay feature. When it works, it will elevate the certification experience and set a new benchmark for professional exams.

The concept is powerful.
The execution just needs more refinement.

And once it’s stable, I believe this format will truly redefine how SAP professionals prove their expertise in the future.

How to Learn SAP Datasphere – The Cloud-Based Data Warehouse / Data Fabric Solution

2025-12-15T14:33:41.658000+01:00

SAP Datasphere plays a major role within SAP Business Data Cloud, our new data analytics platform.

SAP Datasphere is also a full-grown powerful data fabric / data warehouse solution on its own.

It provides graphical and pro-code options for data harmonization and integration. It is SAP’s strategic solution for this purpose.

You can even integrate native SAP HANA models (For details about these models, read Jan ZWICKEL’s blog about SAP HANA Calculation views).

In this community, you will find blogs and other resources on SAP Datasphere. As this is a highly dynamic topic with a new wave every 2 weeks, please check regularly for updates. Feel free to ask questions. Please feel free to use this new community and connect with us and other learners.

Your feedback on these resources is highly welcome. Also let us know about topics you would like to have covered in future live sessions and blogs, so that we can make our content even more suited to your needs.

So, how can you take up knowledge about SAP Datasphere and prove it?

Learning about SAP Datasphere

If you want to find a short overview, the 3 hour online course Exploring SAP Datasphere suits you best. Search for DSPE01 on https://learning.sap.com.
If you need information about the cloud-based SAP BW/4HANA tenant called SAP Datasphere, SAP BW bridge, we offer the 4 hour online course SAP Datasphere, SAP BW Bridge.

What if you want to practice?

Here again, we have nice courses for you!

The SAP Datasphere Overview (online tour offers a complementary system. (Search for TRIAL_INT_DSP_OVERVIEW on https://learning.sap.com.)

If you want to dive deeper and ask questions, book the instructor-led DSP01 - Introduction to SAP Datasphere | SAP Training. Create your own models in several hands-on exercises based on 3 typical scenarios: file upload for self-service, fuzzy data matching, data harmonization from 3 different sources. (Search for DSP01 on https://training.sap.com)

Live Sessions

In addition to courses and practice systems, the SAP Learning portal offers live sessions that are useful to go keep learning, ask questions, deepen your knowledge on specific topics. These sessions are delivered by subject-matter-experts (SMEs), either from SAP Training, SAP Partners or other experts at SAP such as Product Managers.

The sessions come under five categories:

Get Started
Expert Deep Dive
What's New
Get Certified
Stay Certified

Some of the live sessions are available for free, some require a subscription. This is visible in the example below:

SAP Datasphere Live Session catalog sample on SAP Learning

For example, we offer topics on Graphical Modeling for SAP Analytics Cloud, Performance Optimization for Backend Modelling and SAC Stories.

Want to prove your knowledge and increase your value?

When you feel prepared enough, you should take the certification.

SAP Datasphere is part of the AI-based practice certification C_BDCBC.

Happy learning with SAP!

SAP’s Golden Certificate as a Benchmark: KPN’s Commitment to Quality

2025-12-16T07:40:29.867000+01:00

SAP’s Golden Certificate has been awarded to our partner KPN B.V. following the certification of its SAP operations and services for the tenth consecutive time. This milestone reflects more than two decades of a continuous journey with SAP, driven by a strong commitment to quality, trust, and innovation. We deeply value our enduring partnership and appreciate KPN’s willingness to share their insights and experiences on how certification has played a central role in strengthening customer confidence and shaping KPN’s service portfolio. From early SAP HANA adoption to today’s cloud solutions such as SAP S/4HANA, RISE with SAP, and SAP BTP, KPN has continuously expanded its SAP capabilities.

Could you start by telling us about your company and the services you offer?

At KPN, we’re proud to be the Netherlands’ leading provider of telecommunications and IT services. Our unique combination of a secure, nationwide network and privately owned data centers empowers us to deliver critical SAP environments for both national and international clients. For nearly 30 years, our dedicated SAP team has been at the forefront, offering expert consultancy, managed services, and 24/7 support. Our customers benefit from our proven track record and deep expertise, ensuring their SAP systems are secure, stable, and ready for the future. As cloud solutions like SAP BTP become increasingly vital, we guide our customers through every step of their digital transformation, acting as a trusted advisor and technical partner.

As an SAP partner for more than 24 years, how has your partnership evolved, and what have been the most significant milestones or highlights in your collaboration with SAP?

Our partnership with SAP is a story of continuous innovation and shared success. For over two decades, we’ve been one of the most consistently certified SAP service providers in the Netherlands, a testament to our commitment and expertise. Highlights include our early adoption of SAP HANA, the integration of certified disaster recovery across multiple data centers, and our expansion into SAP Cloud services. Each achievement has enabled our customers to innovate with confidence and resilience. Our recent certification as an SAP BTP Operations Partner marks another proud milestone, reflecting our dedication to supporting our customers’ evolving needs. Looking ahead, we’re excited to deepen our expertise in SAP Cloud security and AI, ensuring our customers remain at the cutting edge.

What inspired your decision to seek your first service certification in 2001, and how do you assess that choice today?

Looking back, our decision to pursue SAP certification in 2001 was driven by a passion for excellence and a desire to earn our customers’ trust. We recognized early on that independent validation was essential, not just for us, but for our customers’ peace of mind. Today, we’re proud that this commitment continues to set us apart. Maintaining our certifications remains crucial, reassuring our customers, strengthening our reputation, and often making the difference in competitive bids. This commitment to quality and trust forms the foundation of our success, and we value the confidence it brings to our customers every day.

Handover of the golden certificate, November 2025

Absolutely! As cloud adoption accelerates, we’re investing heavily in expertise, solutions, and tooling to help our customers make a safe and successful transition. We guide customers through end-to-end migrations to SAP S/4HANA and RISE with SAP, delivering managed cloud services, including security, monitoring, and seamless integration with our robust network infrastructure. Our unique position as both a connectivity and SAP services provider ensures our customers enjoy secure, future-ready cloud journeys. Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our offerings in cloud security and AI-driven automation, empowering our customers to achieve even greater success.

You were recently certified for the first time for SAP BTP operations. What experiences have you gained with SAP BTP in recent years, and what motivated you to pursue this certification at this point in your company’s evolution?

We saw that many of our customers were eager to unlock the full potential of SAP BTP, but often found it challenging to manage the platform’s complexity, especially around monitoring, security, and operational excellence. By investing in SAP BTP expertise and achieving official certification, we ensure our customers can rely on us for secure, reliable, and optimized BTP operations. This milestone reflects our ambition to stay ahead of technological developments and our commitment to supporting our customers’ innovation journeys. Together, we embrace every step forward in making SAP BTP a powerful asset for our clients.

How would you describe your experience with the audits? Do they provide any valuable insights or ideas for further improvement?

We welcome the audit process as a valuable opportunity to reflect, improve, and benchmark our services against the highest standards. While preparing for an audit is demanding, the thoroughness and professionalism of SAP’s auditors always lead to constructive feedback and fresh ideas. We carefully review every audit report and translate recommendations into concrete actions, ensuring we continuously raise the bar for our customers. These audits not only strengthen our partnership with SAP but also motivate us as a team to take pride in our achievements and strive for continuous improvement.

Information on the certification program for operations partners and an overview of all certified partners can be found in the SAP Operations Partner Guide.

Visit OPC at SAP.com or on the SAP Partner Portal.

Capgemini Chosen to Pilot SAP’s Newly Launched SAP Business AI Solutions Operations Certification

2025-12-18T09:19:41.966000+01:00

When SAP introduced its new SAP Business AI solutions operations certification, it signaled a new differentiator for partners driving the next wave of enterprise AI innovation. At the intersection of readiness and opportunity, Capgemini was selected as pilot partner - reflecting years of trust, operational maturity, and leadership in SAP Business AI. In this story, SAP and Capgemini share their perspectives on how co-creation, real-world rigor, and precise timing helped shape a new standard for AI operations. Together, they highlight what it takes to turn innovation into trusted, enterprise-grade reality.

SAP’s Perspective

In the rapidly evolving landscape of enterprise AI, operational excellence is no longer a back-office concern, it’s a strategic imperative. That’s why SAP launched its new certification “SAP-certified in SAP Business AI solutions operations”, designed to validate and elevate the operational capabilities of partners delivering services and AI-powered operations for SAP.

For this initiative, SAP chose Capgemini as its first pilot partner. The decision was rooted in trust, history, and proven excellence and some fortunate timing. Capgemini was due to recertify its operations certifications, and the timing aligned with SAP’s desire to pilot a new certification for SAP Business AI operations. Capgemini’s maturity in the SAP Business AI space made them an ideal pilot partner. Their defined offerings, mature KPIs, and well-managed AI operations gave SAP the confidence to move forward with the certification launch.

“As we scale Business AI across the enterprise, trust in the operations behind it is just as critical as the technology itself. Having Capgemini as our pilot partner for this certification was a deliberate choice; their operational maturity and candid feedback helped elevate our new standards for the entire ecosystem.”,
said Marc-Oliver Klein, VP, Head of Partner Product Management SAP Business AI, SAP SE.

What made this collaboration truly special was Capgemini’s active role in shaping the certification itself. Their feedback helped refine the final form of the certification. Their thoughtful feedback helped turn it into something that truly mirrors real-world operational needs. It’s another milestone in a long-standing partnership between SAP and Capgemini.

Capgemini’s Perspective

When SAP approached Capgemini to recertify its operations scope, they were already deep into their AI journey, with a strong posture in SAP AI operations and a desire to further validate their capabilities.

Participating in the pilot wasn’t just about earning a badge, it was about co-creating a standard that would define operational excellence in AI for years to come. Capgemini’s willingness to engage, provide feedback, and iterate with SAP reflects its commitment to being a trusted, forward-thinking partner.

"Partnering with SAP on this new certification allowed us to go beyond validation. It enabled us to help define what excellence in AI operations truly looks like. It’s a proud moment that reflects our shared commitment to shaping the future with our clients, making it real.",
said Gianluca Simeone, VP - Global SAP CTIO and Gen-AI Leader at Capgemini.

This certification now stands as a symbol of Capgemini’s leadership in the space and its dedication to robust, scalable, and high-performing AI operations. It also reinforces Capgemini’s role in helping shape the future of enterprise AI alongside SAP.

Information on the certification program for operations partners and an overview of all certified partners can be found in the SAP Operations Partner Guide.

Visit OPC at SAP.com or on the SAP Partner Portal.

How to Take SAP’s New Performance-Based Certification Exams

2025-12-30T21:36:54.641000+01:00

Beginning in November 2025, SAP updated parts of its certification program by introducing scenario-based assessments exams. These exams replace the traditional proctored, multiple-choice format and are designed to better reflect real-world use cases.

In this post, I walk you through what has changed, how the new exam formats work, what to expect from AI-assisted and expert-reviewed assessments, and what this means for certification renewal—based on my own experience retaking the SAP BTP Solution Architect exam.

Some certifications are now available only through this new approach like:

With this new format, there is less focus on memorizing detailed information. Instead, candidates demonstrate their knowledge by solving practical scenarios. You may complete tasks using AI-assisted tools or submit video-based responses that are reviewed by SAP experts later.

You can explore available certifications by logging into SAP Learning at https://learning.sap.com and navigating to the Get Certified section.

To identify the exam format, click on the exam you are interested in. On the above right side of the exam page, the presence of “Schedule Exam” indicates that the exam is delivered through a third-party proctoring service:

If after clicking on the exam you see "Go to Certification Exam" on the top right ,it is on new scenario-based/system-based :

According to the SAP latest announcement, all SAP exams (by the end of March 2026) will be switched to this self-managed new performance-based exam.

If you choose the AI option with this new approach, the results are reviewed automatically in real time right after your submission. You can see your failure or success immediately. If you fail, you will receive the detailed analysis of your response by AI which can help you with your next exam try.

If you choose to submit videos, it will be scored by experts within 10 business days.

This analyzing session will not be available to you in your next log on, please make sure to review that before missing that session to help you to focus on your weakness for your next same exam attempt.

How real skills are used in scenario based

Practical

Certification exams mimic real tasks, such as configuring real SAP systems, building processes, coding, or delivering SAP solutions based on a case study.

Open book

Leverage all kinds of resources to complete the exams, just as you would on an actual SAP project.

AI-enabled

Access AI support, such as SAP Joule for Consultants or any other AI Large Language Models (LLMs).

System-based assessment

Learners have the opportunity to complete practical tasks in time-limited SAP system simulations, testing their ability to perform specific tasks or operations.

Scenario-based assessment

Learners engage in time-limited role-play with an AI avatar, delivering SAP solutions, advising on architecture, and performing simulations.

A subscription to SAP Learning Hub includes 4 SAP certification exam attempts in one year or you can buy certification attempts (LINK).

At the time of writing this blog, to renew a certification for an additional year, you must have an active SAP Learning Hub subscription to complete the required renewal assessment:

If your certification is still valid, the renewal process does not require taking a performance-based or scenario-based exam. This exam formats apply only when pursuing a new certification, provided that the certification has already transitioned to the new scenario-based or practical exam approach.

Recently I decided to retake SAP BTP Solution Architect rather than renew through SAP leaning Hub assessment to help me to write this post.

New Certification approach with no proctor

Scenario based Steps:

Start the Exam
Choose your method (AI or Video record)
Complete Tasks
Submit &Confirm

System based steps:

Find your exam in SAP Learning
Hands-On Practice
Schedule your exam
Do System Check and wait for the day the schedule starts

Here I walk you through high level steps for BTP Solution Architect scenario-based exam:

First, you find your desired Exam page and click on the link:

https://learning.sap.com/certifications/sap-certified-professional-solution-architect-sap-btp

Next you choose “Go to Certification Exam”:

Then, you see the screen below and after clicking the box for “Terms and Conditions” you can hit “start Certification Exam” that will use one of your exam attempts credits and you have 24 hours to do the exam, or you lose one of your exams attempts credits:

As shown above, you have up to four exam attempts within a one-year period to achieve certification. If all four attempts are unsuccessful for that exam, you must wait 12 months before retaking the same exam.

Next, you will see the page below, which I chose AI for my Role-play then click on “Agree and get Started”:

Then you see the next screen and after allowing your camera, you will be able to start the exam by clicking on Start button:

As shown in the snapshot below, once you start the AI exam with the Avatar, you have three options available:

By clicking option 1, you can proceed to the next question.
By clicking option 2, you can pause the exam and take a short break.
By clicking option 3, you can exit the exam or reset it. If you choose to reset, you will need to start over from the beginning, as long as your two-hour time limit has not been fully consumed.

If you fail the exam, you can retake it as long as your total allotted time for the exam has not expired:

Important note

Once you start the scenario-based exam session, the assessment typically takes around 20–30 minutes and is conducted through an AI-powered chat experience using Yoodli technology. Before clicking on Start button, it is strongly recommended that you thoroughly review the case study provided (if the exam has one ) as part of the exam and prepare your solution in advance, for example in a notepad or word document, which you can reference during the AI role-play conversation.
You can use the pause button, it will stop the AI roleplay interaction, but the exam timer will continue to run. Be mindful of your remaining time before resuming the exercise. If you can't find the case study the pause may come handy to check to find the scenario if it is missing or even review it again , prepare your thoughts and answers and then continue the AI session.
If you don’t pass a scenario-based assessment and still have time remaining, you can retake the exam right away, and it will count as a single exam attempt.

This exam uses Yoodli technology and does not require any software installation. If you would like to familiarize yourself with the format, you can create a free account at https://yoodli.ai/ and practice using sample role-play scenarios.

During the exam, an interactive chat window will appear, allowing you to follow the conversation and view a live transcript of the AI avatar’s responses.

Areas Where There Is Still Room for Improvement

While this new exam approach is a positive step forward, there are still areas that could benefit from further refinement.

It would help if candidates had clearer context around the scenario or practice environment. The scenario should be easily accessible during the session, and participants should be given adequate time to review the requirements and prepare before the timed portion begins.
Compared to traditional proctored exams, there are also open questions around identity verification. It is not yet clear how this new format consistently ensures that the person completing the assessment is the same individual who registered for the exam.
With the new exam format, candidates do not currently receive an automatic email notification with pass/fail status, scores, or a detailed performance breakdown, which would be helpful for feedback and personal development.
It would also be valuable for the SAP Certification team to introduce a short mandatory survey at the end of the exam, similar to what Azure and AWS certifications provide. This would allow SAP to capture issues and feedback early, proactively follow up with impacted candidates when needed, and continuously improve the overall exam experience, rather than relying solely on support tickets raised after the fact.

Hopefully, the SAP certification team will continue refining this model so it better aligns with the rigor and value traditionally associated with proctored exams in these areas.

Reference links:

Reimagining certification in the age of AI
Scenario Based Assessment
System Based Assessments
Step-by-step guide - How to cancel your existing booking for a certification exam?
Create a support ticket if you encounter any issues during a self-managed exam

Share with others and Connect with us!

Please leave your comment if you have anything to add!
If you would like to ask questions, please use the community Q&A.
Give us a like and share on social media if you feel it was useful!
You can check my posts or follow me in People SAP @Amin_Omidy

Thanks,

SAP Business Data Cloud Certification (C_BCBDC): The Ultimate Guide to Passing SAP’s New AI Scenario

2026-01-12T13:03:12.892000+01:00

Introduction

Certification is changing, and it is a good thing. Instead of cramming facts and guessing at multiple choice, you are invited to think like you do on the job. You will work through real scenarios, connect the dots, and show how you deliver outcomes. In this post we will talk about what is new, and how to prepare for SAP BDC (C_BCBDC) certification.

Understanding the New BDC Certification Format - Scenario Based

You will interact with an AI avatar to respond to real customer or project situations. For learners who prefer not to use AI there is an alternative option to upload a video for human review. Link for more details : SAP Certification is Changing What You Need to Know about the New Format, Reimagining Certification

Preparation

SAP BDC Learning Journey

For the best chance of success, complete the full SAP Business Data Cloud learning journey from start to finish. Treat every module, hands on exercise, and quiz as required to build real exam readiness. Give special attention to the core topics below

Core Topics in SAP Business Data Cloud

1. BDC

One domain model
SAP 4 Me
Formations
Intelligent Applications
Data Products
Data Security
Architecture
BDC Cockpit
Zero copy
ORD / CSN
Data Lake

2. SAP Datasphere Integration

BDC-generated spaces
Harmonization through modeling
Semantic enrichment
Extending SAP-delivered models
Installing data products to a space

3. SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC)

Role of SAC in BDC
Extending and discovering intelligent applications
Use cases for intelligent applications

4. BW Modernization

Lift, shift, and innovate strategies
Data Product Generator
Subscriptions and versions
Why BW is included in BDC

5. SAP Databricks Integration

ML Flow, delta share, notebooks, Unity Catalog
Exploratory Data Analysis
Industry use cases
Sharing data products and ML results between Databricks and BDC

Sample Scenarios to Understand the Exam Format

Scenario 1: Global Manufacturing Company – Unified Analytics & Governance

Context: A global manufacturing company operates across Europe and Asia. They run SAP S/4HANA, legacy SAP BW, and several non-SAP systems for logistics and procurement. Leadership wants a single, governed analytics platform with reusable data products and ready-made insights.

Question: How does BDC help

Scenario 2: Financial Services Firm – AI-Driven Risk & Compliance Reporting

Context: A financial services firm needs real-time risk reporting, strict compliance, and AI-driven forecasting. They must integrate SAP finance data with external market feeds and apply advanced analytics.

Question: How can Financial Services Firm integrate third-party data with its SAP data using SAP Business Data Cloud?

Exam Questions Breakdown from My Attempt

Based on my recent experience, here’s how the exam questions were distributed:

Technical Knowledge of BDC: 40%
Integration with SAP Business Warehouse: 15%
Technical Knowledge of SAP Analytics Cloud: 15%
Technical Knowledge of SAP Datasphere: 15%
Technical Knowledge of SAP Databricks: 15%

Helpful Links

Unlock Your Potential: Get Certified as an SAP Generative AI Developer

2026-01-22T01:17:32.927000+01:00

Are you ready to dive into the world of Generative AI and become a certified expert with SAP? Our "Get Certified: SAP Certified - SAP Generative AI Developer" live session series is designed for developers and consultants at all levels – whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced.

Overview:

Join our expert trainers in a comprehensive series of live sessions dedicated to preparing you for the C_AIG certification: SAP Certified - SAP Generative AI Developer. This immersive learning experience includes a kick-off session, two content review sessions, hands-on practice, and a wrap-up session, all designed to ensure you're fully prepared to excel in your certification.

Session Breakdown:

Kick-off Session (1 hour):
- Introduction to the certification process and exam interface.
- Tips for effective preparation.
- Overview of the learning journey self-study content and practice systems.
Content Review Sessions:
- Session 1 (2 hours):
  - Pre-requisites: SL_BAI101, AIG01, AIG00
  - Coverage of essential topics and techniques.
  - Demonstration of the Generative AI Hub interface.
- Session 2 (2 hours):
  - Pre-requisites: Hands-on practice for solving business problems.
  - Advanced techniques: AIG02, AIG03.
  - Demo: Prompt registry and code development using SAP Cloud SDK for AI.
Wrap-up Session:
- Final review and Q&A to ensure you're ready to tackle the certification.

Learning Objectives:

By participating in this live session series, you'll gain a thorough understanding of the certification format, scope, and content. You'll be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully earn your certification.

Who Should Attend:

Roles: Developers, Consultants.
Experience Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced.

Schedule and Registration:

We offer various dates and times to suit your availability. You can register for the bundle sessions on our website.

Upcoming Sessions:

January 28, 2026 - February 11, 2026:
- Jan 28, 2026: 00:00 - 01:00 America/Vancouver
- Feb 4, 2026: 00:00 - 02:00 America/Vancouver
- Feb 11, 2026: 00:00 - 02:00 America/Vancouver
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- May 13, 2026: 00:00 - 02:00 America/Vancouver
- May 20, 2026: 00:00 - 02:00 America/Vancouver

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your career and become an SAP Generative AI Developer. Register now and embark on your certification journey with confidence!

Find out more and register here.

My Experience with SAP Generative AI Developer Exam (C_AIG): Excellent Hands-On Format, One Setback

2026-01-29T07:02:10.788000+01:00

TL;DR: I recently took the SAP Certified – SAP Generative AI Developer (C_AIG) exam in SAP’s new, task-based format. Compared to the traditional proctored, MCQ-style certification (I previously passed the SAP Certified Associate - Back-End Developer - ABAP Cloud ), this format felt refreshingly real: open-book, hands-on, and aligned with how we actually work: consulting documentation and credible sources to solve practical tasks. The difficulty was fair and thoughtfully designed. However, I faced a serious technical issue in the final minutes: the “Confirm Completion” button did not respond despite multiple attempts, leading to an immediate fail result likely due to the system not registering my submission within the two-hour lab window. I’ve raised a support case and hope SAP can review my completed work or grant a reattempt. Aside from this incident, I genuinely prefer this format over MCQs.

Why This New Format Matters

I appeared this exam after doing the MCQ-based backend ABAP developer certificate. That format is familiar and structured but it inevitably encourages memorization under pressure. The new C_AIG experience is different in the best way:

Open-book, real-world problem solving: You are allowed to consult documentation and reputable sources while completing practical tasks. That’s how work in an organization actually happens. The exam felt like a thoughtfully curated, time-boxed lab rather than a memory test.
Hands-on skill demonstration: Instead of proving you can recall definitions, you prove you can build and reason, under time constraints, with real tooling.
Deeper learning: Solving tasks practically is far more memorable and meaningful than “by-hearting” theory for MCQs. I came away with reinforced concepts and stronger confidence in applying them.

Frankly, I liked this new format very much: it’s unique, modern, and authentic.

Exam Flow: What I Experienced

When I started the 24-hour window, I could see the questions and plan my approach.
Once the system access was granted, the two-hour practical lab timer started.
The tasks were well-thought-out, reasonably tough, and lengthy in a productive way. You need both breadth and depth to complete them in time but they are absolutely solvable with focus and good time management.
Importantly, nothing exceeded the learning journey it was rigorous but fair. No trickery, just practical application of what you’re supposed to know.

This balance of open-book realism and tight timeboxing made it a genuinely strong assessment model.

The Technical Issue That Cost Me the Attempt

With ~10 minutes left on my two-hour lab window, I had completed all tasks, verified my answers, and proceeded, as instructed: to click “Confirm Completion” (the button near the “Get Access” control).

I clicked repeatedly.
I closed and reopened the browser.
I reopened the certification link.
I even re-established system access to the Generative AI environment.

Despite all that, there was no response from the “Confirm Completion” button. As the clock ran out, the portal eventually returned an instant failure. Based on the message and timing, it most likely meant the system did not register my submission within the two-hour lab period, even though I had completed and verified my work within time.

What makes it upsetting is that my work was done. I did what the assessment asked, thoroughly and on time, but the submission mechanism failed me. I’ve since registered a customer support case detailing the problem. I sincerely hope SAP can either:

Verify my completed tasks from their system logs or workspace and give provide me with the honest result or certification, or
Grant a fresh attempt, given the submission failure was technical in nature.

I’m a student who had 1 limited attempt for this certification which I really wanted to get, and losing one to a glitch, after honest preparation and timely completion was frustrating.

Closing Thoughts

The C_AIG exam’s design deserves recognition: it’s modern, fair, and genuinely skill-focused. My experience was positive until the submission glitch which has gotten me real frustrated and I hope for a quicker response from the support. I’m sharing this not to discourage, but to advocate for a smoother, more resilient submission process that matches the quality of the exam itself. I hope my case helps improve the candidate experience for everyone who follows.

SAP Certification update: Practical exams roll out in 2026

2026-01-29T15:29:45.072000+01:00

Last November, we announced one of the most significant shifts in SAP Certification history: a move from traditional, multiple-choice exams to performance-based, practical, open-book assessments that reflect how SAP professionals actually work. The response from the SAP Community has been extraordinary.

More than 1,300 SAP TechEd attendees registered for onsite exams across Berlin, Bangalore, and Louisville, taking advantage of the opportunity to try the new model with authentic SAP systems and AI-supported scenarios. “I took the practical exam for the SAP Build Developer certification at SAP TechEd in Berlin and was impressed with how it reflected actual, on-the-job problem solving,” said Antonieta Lopez, an SAP Champion. “I needed some help in one task and was able to quickly solve the problem using AI, just as I would in real life. I really like the new certification exams because they are like real business instead of learning things by heart.”

Thousands more have embraced the new exam model, achieving practical certifications in Generative AI Developers, SAP Build Developers, SAP Business Data Cloud, Solution Architects for SAP Business Technology Platform, SAP BTP System Administrators and RISE with SAP Methodology and Experience.

In the weeks following SAP TechEd, we’ve been busy transitioning all certification exams to the practical model and have been very pleased with the response from our community. Here are a few new practical exams you might want to explore first:

Browse all practical exams

Certification for a world where AI is part of the workday

If you’ve prepared for certification on the SAP Learning site, you’ve already experienced practical exercises and scenario-based tasks as part of the learning journeys. The new exams simply extend that learning approach, so the moment you begin your certification, it already feels familiar.

Every practical exam, whether system-based or scenario-based, mirrors the reality of SAP projects:

Timeboxed tasks in SAP systems
Realistic customer or project scenarios
AI-supported simulations
Open book: Access to resources like SAP Help Portal, SAP Learning site, SAP Community, and SAP Joule for Consultants (where applicable).
A clear focus on proving your ability to do the work

This shift is about trust: for learners who invest in their careers, and for employers who rely on SAP-certified professionals to deliver results from day one.

Be an early leader in the next era of SAP skills

As we roll out the full portfolio of performance-based certification exams in 2026, we want to encourage the community to take part. Not because certification exams will be easier (they won’t be) but because those who demonstrate practical skills now will help define what excellence looks like going forward.

We’re building a more trusted, meaningful, and future-ready certification framework and we invite you to be part of the shaping its future. To explore the new practical exams, visit the SAP Certification reimagined page and read the FAQ.

Free Learning Journeys for Learning WalkMe which leads to certification

2026-02-02T08:55:36.742000+01:00

SAP WalkMe helps organizations to effectively implement their digital adoption strategies to increase the effectiveness and productiveness of their digital transformation journey. WalkMe is a digital adoption platform providing customers with framework which makes the Digital Transformation easier, faster and simpler.

SAP Learning offers two learning journeys for learners:

Positioning WalkMe
This learning journey aims to provide you with core skills and knowledge of WalkMe and expertise to effectively discover, position, sell and recommend D.A.P in the market. The learning journey comprises of short courses - each about an hour long to consume. You will also be able to develop a deep understanding of WalkMe’s five key differentiators to effectively communicate its ROI, productivity benefits, and innovation leadership, apply the “Why Change, Why Now, Why WalkMe” framework to address customer concerns and emphasize the urgency of digital adoption and analyze the competitive landscape to confidently position WalkMe as the ultimate solution for enterprise digital transformation and long-term success.

This learning journey is ideal for learners who are:
1. In active customer-facing roles,
2. Who are involved in digital transformation & Business Transformation Management roles
3. Someone who are trying to understand the overview & basic features of WalkMe
  
  Access the learning journey using this link here.
  
  Please note that completion of each course within the learning journey will entitle you for a completion badge.
Starting your Digital adoption journey with WalkMe
This learning journey is the certification path for getting certified as SAP Certified - WalkMe Digital Adoption Consultant. This certification verifies that the recipient has acquired a foundational understanding of Digital Adoption and the WalkMe platform, along with a comprehensive grasp of how to build solutions using WalkMe. Participants will learn to define key concepts, appreciate the value and applications of WalkMe, understand WalkMe's success methodology, and apply this knowledge to create content that addresses business challenges effectively.

This learning journey comprises of 3 courses - a) WalkMe Fundamentals, b) Getting Started with Building WalkMe Solutions and c) Advancing your skills in building WalkMe solutions. While fundamentals is a basic course covering high level details, the other two courses delve deeper into the WalkMe product to provide a detailed overview of concepts, tools, procedures, best practices etc.

This learning journey is ideal for learners who are:
1. Involved in strategizing, designing and delivering digital adoption platform
2. Actively involved in WalkMe administration, Content creation, Analysis of user experience managemen
3. Interested in getting WalkMe certification
  
  Access the learning journey using this link here.
  
  Please note that completion of each course within the learning journey will entitle you for a completion badge.

We also have a Get Certified Live session coming in March 2026 - you can get more details here about the same and also register.

SAP Analytics Cloud Certification: A New Era of Skill Validation

2026-02-04T12:36:17.357000+01:00

SAP has completely redesigned the SAP Analytics Cloud certification, and with it, the way professional skills are assessed.

The new SAP Analytics Cloud certification is no longer based on multiple-choice questions. There is no proctor, and it is open-book. Candidates engage in an AI-driven role-play exam designed to mirror how professionals actually work with SAP Analytics Cloud. You can prepare with our free learning content available on learning.sap.com.

How the new exam works

During the exam, you interact with an AI that asks 20 questions related to SAP Analytics Cloud.

Key features of the new exam format include:

Immediate results: Once you complete your tasks, your performance is reviewed by AI, and you receive your result instantly.
Open book format: You can use documentation and resources just like you would in real work situations.
No proctoring: The exam experience is more flexible and accessible.
Smart retakes: If you fail a scenario and still have time left within the two-hour exam window, you can retake it immediately, and it still counts as a single exam attempt.
Pause functionality: You can pause the AI interaction if you need time to think, but be aware that the overall exam timer continues running.

To help learners understand exactly what to expect, we created a short video that walks through the experience and shows how the AI role play works in practice.

A step toward future-ready certifications

The redesign of the SAP Analytics Cloud certification signals a broader transformation in professional learning and validation. As AI becomes a standard part of everyday workflows, certifications must evolve to assess judgment, problem-solving, and execution rather than isolated knowledge.

This move brings SAP certifications closer to how work is actually done and closer to how real-world skills should be measured.

It's time to start a new way of certification!

Von der Theorie zur Praxis: Wie SAP-Zertifizierungen die moderne Arbeitswelt widerspiegeln

2026-02-04T14:36:04.311000+01:00

Heutige Projekte sind geprägt von Geschwindigkeit, Vernetzung und Zusammenarbeit. Wenn Sie komplexe Herausforderungen lösen, nutzen Sie selbstverständlich verfügbare Ressourcen, tauschen sich mit Experten aus und setzen die passenden digitalen Werkzeuge ein. Diese Realität spiegelt sich nun auch in der SAP-Zertifizierung wider.

Kompetenz statt Auswendiglernen: Der neue SAP Prüfungsansatz

SAP setzt auf einen fundamentalen Wandel: Weg von beaufsichtigten Multiple-Choice-Tests, hin zu leistungsorientierten, praktischen Open-Book-Bewertungen. Diese Innovation bringt Zertifizierungen in Einklang mit echten Arbeitsanforderungen.

Anstelle theoretischer Fragen bearbeiten Sie realitätsnahe Aufgaben, die Ihre praktische SAP-Kompetenz unter Beweis stellen. Sie konfigurieren Systeme, entwickeln Lösungen, analysieren Probleme und beraten bei strategischen Entscheidungen – genau wie in Ihrem beruflichen Alltag.

Das neue SAP Prüfungsformat bietet zwei innovative Ansätze:

Systembasierte Prüfungen:

Sie arbeiten direkt in SAP-Systemen und lösen zeitlich begrenzte, praxisrelevante Aufgaben. Diese Methode testet Ihre Fähigkeit, komplexe Systemfunktionalitäten effizient zu nutzen.

Szenariobasierte Prüfungen:

Sie interagieren mit KI-Avataren in realistischen Beratungs- und Projektsituationen. Für Teilnehmer, die KI-freie Alternativen bevorzugen, steht die Option zur Verfügung, Videoantworten für die manuelle Bewertung hochzuladen.

Arbeitsplatznahe Lernumgebung mit vollständigem Ressourcenzugang

Die Open-Book-Philosophie ermöglicht den Zugang zu allen relevanten Informationsquellen: SAP Help Portal, SAP Learning Site, SAP Community und SAP Joule for Consultants. Diese Herangehensweise entspricht der modernen Arbeitsrealität, in der Fachkräfte kontinuierlich auf Wissen und Tools zugreifen.

Nahtlose Integration von Lernen und Bewertung

Die Transformation schafft eine durchgängige Lernerfahrung. Die praktischen Übungen und Szenarien der SAP Learning Site führen nahtlos in die Prüfungssituation über. Vorbereitung und Zertifizierung verschmelzen zu einem kohärenten Entwicklungsprozess.

Jede Prüfung konzentriert sich auf die Demonstration echter Handlungskompetenz innerhalb realistischer Zeitrahmen. Die Identitätsbestätigung erfolgt über SAP Universal ID – ein vertrauensbasierter Ansatz, der professionelle Arbeitsstandards respektiert.

Systematische Einführung neuer SAP Zertifizierungsstandards

Der Rollout begann im November 2025 mit folgenden Zertifizierungen:

- Solution Architect für SAP Business Technology Platform

- SAP Generative AI Developer

- SAP Build Developer

- SAP Business Data Cloud

- SAP BTP System Administrator (neue Zertifizierung)

- RISE with SAP Methodology and Experience (neue Zertifizierung)

Seit Anfang 2026 sind alle SAP-Zertifizierungen auf das neue Format umgestellt. Dies betrifft sämtliche Fachbereiche: Beratung, Entwicklung, Administration und Vertrieb. Jeder Spezialist validiert seine Expertise unter realistischen Arbeitsbedingungen.

Konkrete Vorteile der neuen SAP Zertifizierungsstruktur

Die Umstellung auf praxisbasierte Prüfungen bringt messbare Verbesserungen für alle Beteiligten:

Für Fachkräfte: Ihre Zertifizierung weist praktische Kompetenzen und fundierte Problemlösungsfähigkeiten nach. Das Zertifikat wird zu einem aussagekräftigen Nachweis Ihrer beruflichen Qualifikation.

Für Arbeitgeber: Zertifizierte Mitarbeiter können ihre Expertise direkt in der Praxis anwenden. Die praxisnahe Validierung verkürzt Einarbeitungszeiten und bietet mehr Verlässlichkeit bei Personalentscheidungen.

Für die SAP-Community: Die arbeitsplatzorientierte Zertifizierung stärkt das Vertrauen in SAP-Qualifikationen und unterstützt die kontinuierliche Kompetenzentwicklung im gesamten Ökosystem.

KI-Integration für die digitale Zukunft

Die Einbindung von KI-Technologien in Prüfungsszenarien bereitet Fachkräfte gezielt auf die digitale Transformation vor. Sie lernen nicht nur SAP-Systeme zu beherrschen, sondern auch intelligente Tools effektiv in ihre Arbeitsprozesse zu integrieren.

Vertrauen durch Praxisbezug

Die Weiterentwicklung der SAP-Zertifizierung folgt einem klaren Grundsatz: Praxisnahe Prüfungen führen zu verwertbaren Kompetenzen. Wenn Zertifizierungen die reale Arbeitswelt abbilden, entstehen Qualifikationen mit echtem Mehrwert.

Die neue Zertifizierungsgeneration macht Ihr fachliches Engagement und Ihre Erfahrung sichtbar und nachprüfbar. Sie entwickeln Fähigkeiten, die sich direkt in beruflichen Erfolg umsetzen lassen. Mit dem Launch auf der SAP TechEd in Berlin hat SAP neue Standards für kompetenzbasierte Zertifizierung im digitalen Zeitalter etabliert. Diese Entwicklung unterstützt sowohl individuelle Karrierewege als auch die Innovationsfähigkeit von Unternehmen.

Weitere Informationen zu Certification finden Sie hier

FAQs finden Sie unter diesem Link

30 Years of SAP Partnership and Certified Excellence: cbs a Trusted Partner for SAP Transformation

2026-02-09T16:45:39.886000+01:00

With more than 30 years of SAP experience and as a multiple-time certified operations partner, cbs - Corporate Business Solutions Unternehmensberatung GmbH - supports industrial companies through complex SAP S/4HANA, cloud, and AI projects. In this interview, cbs explains how industry focus, quality standards, and end-to-end services ensure reliable digital transformation.

Can you briefly introduce your company and explain which services you offer?

cbs, Corporate Business Solutions, designs digital end-to-end business process solutions for international industrial clients. With over 3,000 global projects, more than 30 years of market presence, dedicated industry know-how, and a unique, comprehensive offering for business transformation, we support our customers in establishing the next generation of enterprise solutions. Our global consulting organization includes the logistics subsidiary Leogistics and the HR consultancy Projekt0708, our own near- and offshore centers, and a strong partner network. In addition to its headquarters in Heidelberg, cbs is present at more than 40 offices worldwide. More than 1,700 employees across Europe, Asia, and the Americas manage projects and SAP operations for customers worldwide. From SAP strategy to project management and change management to implementation and application management. Business consulting is also a rapidly growing area for us. Here, we deal with topics such as target operating models and inventory optimization.

You have been working with SAP for 30 years since its founding. How would you describe your experience so far, and are there any special events or milestones in this partnership that stand out in your memory?

Our founders were former SAP employees. As a result, we had excellent relationships with SAP from day one. This led to us being recommended to customers time and time again, and we lived up to these recommendations by delivering successful projects. It is also always important for us to understand which products or solutions SAP is developing so that we can make informed decisions about where to invest. We focused on GTS early on, trained employees, and carried out successful projects. We passed on the references to SAP so that we could do more business together.

The same applies to SAP S/4 HANA. We also focused on this topic early on, sending employees to Walldorf to participate in product testing, contribute our knowledge, and build new knowledge. We carried out initial projects at an early stage and then led the first SAP S/4HANA migration at Viessmann, a globally active manufacturing company. This was a showcase that DSAG presented at its 2019 annual congress together with the CIO of Viessmann and Christian Klein. We have a good relationship with the SAP Executive Board. We maintain close contact, and Christian Klein and Thomas Saueressig have attended our events on several occasions.

In 2015, you decided for the first time to have your service portfolio certified by SAP - initially for SAP Business Suite solutions operations and, from 2021 onward, for SAP S/4HANA solutions operations. What motivated you to take this step at the time, and how do you evaluate this decision today?

It is in cbs's DNA to develop and build on its own topics. However, this means that we have little opportunity or knowledge of how our competitors are performing in these areas. On the other hand, we lacked a “seal of quality” to give our customers a certain degree of security. We were able to achieve both with the certification. The audits enabled us to identify areas for improvement, and passing the certification gave us proof we can use, especially when acquiring new customers. We have now completed the certification for the fifth time and still see the added value that certification brings us in the areas mentioned above.

From your perspective, what has changed for the better since participating in the SAP Certification Program for Operations Partners?

Whereas knowledge of SAP products/modules used to be the main focus, the program has now shifted to emphasize the IT service process. I think this is absolutely essential and appropriate for certification as an SAP Operations Partner. At the same time, the program is adapted each time to reflect current relevant topics, such as cloud, RISE, Clean Core, or AI.

Handover of the certificate, January 2026

What makes your company stand out in particular, and how do you support different industries in their digital transformation?

Our industry focus is on the manufacturing sector. This includes traditional manufacturing companies, machine and plant manufacturers, electronics manufacturers, automotive suppliers, as well as customers in the process industry, pharmaceutical industry, and medical technology. We are convinced that it adds value for the customer when we understand the processes, are familiar with the problems typical of the industry, and have already solved them.

In this industry, many customers are still on their way to SAP S/4 HANA. In the context of this topic, however, a complete transformation project is often initiated so that additional SAP solutions are also introduced. Current examples include SAP EWM, Business Data Cloud, and SAP SuccessFactors.

We offer our customers all of this from a single source. To successfully implement large projects, our program and project managers now have comprehensive PMO support. These services handle test and cut-over management, for example. We have established our own change management division because we have seen that change management consultants in the market often lack SAP knowledge and understanding of SAP projects. We also offer consulting for the entire SAP Toolchain.

We are of the “Selective Data Transition Engagement”. Our cbs ET Enterprise Transformer helps to migrate data from ERP Systems (or other sources) to the new S/4 HANA System in a selective approach. Our application management services are also used in S/4 projects. Since projects often run for several years, but customers want to use their own employees in the project, we take over the management of the existing SAP landscape or provide support in the new landscape once the customer is live.

Apart from SAP S/4 projects, we have a large division in the field of BTP and AI. Here, we digitize processes that were not previously mapped in SAP at all, but rather across multiple systems, and in some cases also involved intermediate steps on paper. We bring these together in a SAP BTP solution, thereby accelerating the process, improving quality, and increasing transparency. We are increasingly using AI to further simplify and accelerate processes. With our AI-based text recognition, we achieve recognition rates of more than 98% and can create the corresponding SAP documents, e.g., sales order, purchase order, or invoice, directly from a piece of paper.

SAP is consistently aligning its strategy toward the cloud and encouraging partners to actively support their customers in migration. How are you currently supporting your customers in their cloud transformation, and do you plan to place an even stronger focus on cloud services in the future?

Functionally, we cover all SAP solutions that our customers need, whether on-premise or in the cloud. We are one of the few providers that can offer customers all services if they want to implement a full cloud solution (SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud, SAP Business Data Cloud, SAP CX, SmartRecruiters, SAP SuccessFactors, Concur, Ariba, IBP, DM, SAP BTP, etc.). Our strategy is to deliver cloud projects whenever possible. For example, if we are short on resources and have to decide between a cloud project for one customer and an on-prem project for another, we would go with the cloud project. As the functionality is rising with every release, we recommend that every customer check if a cloud solution fits the requirements. From our point of view, the cloud solution is the go-to solution for every customer.

What significance do the certifications have for your marketing activities and for communication with your customers?

The certification provides us with external proof of our performance, our knowledge, and our service processes. We are always happy to use this in our acquisition processes.

Information on the certification program for operations partners and an overview of all certified partners can be found in the SAP Operations Partner Guide.

Visit OPC at SAP.com or on the SAP Partner Portal.

SAP Community - Certification

Reimagining Certification for the Way We Work Today

Certificações SAP: mudança para formato prático e open-book

How to Prepare for SAP’s New Certification

What’s Changing and What It Means for Your Preparation

How to Prepare for SAP's New Certification

What These Changes Mean for Your Career

Certified Excellence: How Cognizant Sets the Benchmark for Driving Real SAP Transformation

Fast & Curious: The Making of an SAP Champion

SAP Certification Is Changing: What You Need to Know About the New Format

Why Is SAP Changing Its Certification Format?

What’s Different About the New Exams?

Role-Based Certifications and Staying Certified

Timeline for the New Format

What Hasn’t Changed?

How Should You Prepare?

Spotlight on SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) Certification

Tips for Success

Useful Links

Final Thoughts

Westernacher Achieves SAP S/4HANA Operations Certification: A Benchmark in Cloud-Ready Excellence

My Experience with the New SAP Exam Format (2026)

1. A Fresh Concept: Scenario-Based + AI Roleplay

2. Technical Issues: The AI Mode Was Not Stable

3. The Backup Plan: Human Review

4. Final Thoughts: Great Idea, but Needs Stability

5. Looking Ahead

How to Learn SAP Datasphere – The Cloud-Based Data Warehouse / Data Fabric Solution

SAP’s Golden Certificate as a Benchmark: KPN’s Commitment to Quality

Could you start by telling us about your company and the services you offer?

As an SAP partner for more than 24 years, how has your partnership evolved, and what have been the most significant milestones or highlights in your collaboration with SAP?

What inspired your decision to seek your first service certification in 2001, and how do you assess that choice today?

You were recently certified for the first time for SAP BTP operations. What experiences have you gained with SAP BTP in recent years, and what motivated you to pursue this certification at this point in your company’s evolution?

How would you describe your experience with the audits? Do they provide any valuable insights or ideas for further improvement?

Capgemini Chosen to Pilot SAP’s Newly Launched SAP Business AI Solutions Operations Certification

How to Take SAP’s New Performance-Based Certification Exams

How real skills are used in scenario based

Practical

New Certification approach with no proctor

Here I walk you through high level steps for BTP Solution Architect scenario-based exam:

Important note

Areas Where There Is Still Room for Improvement

SAP Business Data Cloud Certification (C_BCBDC): The Ultimate Guide to Passing SAP’s New AI Scenario

Unlock Your Potential: Get Certified as an SAP Generative AI Developer

My Experience with SAP Generative AI Developer Exam (C_AIG): Excellent Hands-On Format, One Setback

Why This New Format Matters

Exam Flow: What I Experienced

The Technical Issue That Cost Me the Attempt

Closing Thoughts

SAP Certification update: Practical exams roll out in 2026

Be an early leader in the next era of SAP skills

Free Learning Journeys for Learning WalkMe which leads to certification

Positioning WalkMe

Starting your Digital adoption journey with WalkMe

SAP Analytics Cloud Certification: A New Era of Skill Validation

Von der Theorie zur Praxis: Wie SAP-Zertifizierungen die moderne Arbeitswelt widerspiegeln

Kompetenz statt Auswendiglernen: Der neue SAP Prüfungsansatz

Das neue SAP Prüfungsformat bietet zwei innovative Ansätze:

Systembasierte Prüfungen:

Szenariobasierte Prüfungen:

Arbeitsplatznahe Lernumgebung mit vollständigem Ressourcenzugang

Nahtlose Integration von Lernen und Bewertung

Systematische Einführung neuer SAP Zertifizierungsstandards

Konkrete Vorteile der neuen SAP Zertifizierungsstruktur

KI-Integration für die digitale Zukunft

Vertrauen durch Praxisbezug

30 Years of SAP Partnership and Certified Excellence: cbs a Trusted Partner for SAP Transformation