The Future of the SAP Basis Consultant: Essential Skills in a Changing Landscape

SAP Basis consultants are the backbone of any SAP implementation. They ensure the smooth operation of SAP systems by taking care of everything from installation and configuration to performance, security, and maintenance. But as technology evolves and businesses embrace the cloud, it’s natural to wonder what the future holds for this critical role.

The Ever-Important SAP Basis Role

Let’s be clear: SAP Basis consultants are going to be in demand for the foreseeable future. SAP landscapes aren’t going away, and even if organizations move to cloud deployments, there will always be a need for someone to manage and optimize the underlying infrastructure and middleware. The role will always be focused on:

• System Architecture & Design: Understanding the interaction of operating systems, databases, networks, and the SAP application layer itself.
• Installation & Configuration: Setting up the core SAP components for an efficient and reliable deployment
• Performance Optimization: Constant analysis and tuning to keep SAP systems operating at their best.
• Security & Compliance: Protecting SAP systems from breaches and ensuring they adhere to regulations is paramount in today’s world.

Evolving Skillset

While the core responsibilities remain, the way SAP Basis consultants perform tasks will change. Here’s what they need to be prepared for:

• Cloud Expertise: Cloud deployments like RISE with SAP and hyperscaler solutions (Azure, AWS, GCP) are changing the infrastructure landscape. SAP Basis consultants will need to understand how to manage SAP in these environments, leveraging cloud-native tools and services effectively.
• Automation & Scripting: Tasks previously done manually are rapidly being automated. SAP Basis consultants who can code (Python, Bash, etc.), use infrastructure-as-code tools (Terraform, etc.), and automate processes will have an advantage.
• Database Focus: SAP HANA and other in-memory databases are central to modern SAP deployments. SAP Basis consultants skilled in managing these high-performance databases will be in high demand.
• DevOps Principles: The lines between SAP development and operations are blurring. SAP Basis consultants need to understand DevOps principles, continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD), and how to collaborate effectively with development teams.

Adapting for Success

SAP Basis consultants have a bright future, but they must stay ahead of the curve. Here’s how to be ready for what’s ahead:

• Embrace the Cloud: Get certified in cloud platforms and build experience in managing SAP on cloud infrastructures.
• Learn Automation Tools: Master scripting languages and explore automation solutions to streamline routine tasks.
• Become a Database Guru: Deepen your SAP HANA knowledge (and other relevant databases) to become the go-to expert in performance optimization.
• Develop a DevOps Mindset: Learn about CI/CD pipelines, agile methodologies, and how to work seamlessly with development teams.

The SAP Basis Consultant of the Future

The SAP Basis consultant of the future isn’t just a technical expert. They are:

• A Technologist: Comfortable with new technologies and eager to learn.
• A Problem Solver: Able to troubleshoot complex issues and optimize system performance meticulously.
• A Collaborator: Works effectively across different teams for the best SAP system outcomes.

The world of SAP Basis is undergoing significant transformation, yet the need for its skilled practitioners remains undiminished. By upskilling and adapting to the changing environment, SAP Basis consultants can secure a valuable and fulfilling place in the SAP ecosystem for years to come.