Hiring an SAP freelancer requires careful consideration of their training, skills, and certifications to ensure they can meet your business needs effectively. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to look for:
Training:
SAP Fundamentals:
Understanding of SAP Modules: Knowledge of core SAP modules like SAP ERP (ECC or S/4HANA), SAP BW/BI (Business Warehouse/Business Intelligence), SAP HCM (Human Capital Management), SAP FICO (Financial Accounting and Controlling), etc., is crucial.
SAP Navigation: Familiarity with SAP GUI or Fiori, understanding how to navigate through the SAP system.
Module-Specific Training:
Courses or Workshops: Look for freelancers who have taken specialized courses in the SAP module relevant to your project. For instance, if your business needs help with supply chain, training in SAP MM (Materials Management) or SAP SD (Sales and Distribution) is key.
SAP S/4HANA Transition:
Given the shift towards SAP S/4HANA, training in this system, particularly in areas like Simplified Finance or Logistics, can be advantageous.
Project Management:
Training in methodologies like Agile, Scrum, or SAP Activate can be beneficial for managing SAP implementation or upgrade projects.
Skills:
Technical Skills:
ABAP Programming: For customization or development within SAP systems.
SAP Data Migration: Skills in managing data transitions during upgrades or implementations.
Integration Knowledge: Understanding how SAP integrates with other systems or modules.
Functional Skills:
Business Process Understanding: Ability to map and optimize business processes within SAP.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot issues and devise solutions within SAP.
Soft Skills:
Communication: Clear communication for requirements gathering, training, and explaining technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
Project Management: Ability to oversee projects from start to finish, including resource management and deadline adherence.
Adaptability: Keeping up with SAP updates and industry standards.
Consulting Skills:
Change Management: Experience in guiding businesses through changes associated with SAP implementations.
Training and Documentation: Skills in creating user manuals, training staff, and ensuring knowledge transfer.
Certificates:
SAP Certification:
https://learning.sap.com/certifications
Associate Level: Certifications like SAP Certified Application Associate in different modules (e.g., SAP S/4HANA Sales, SAP FICO) indicate foundational knowledge.
Professional Level: For those with more experience, Professional certifications provide deeper expertise in specific areas.
Specialist Certifications: Focused on particular skills or roles within SAP, like SAP Certified Application Specialist.
SAP S/4HANA Certification:
Certifications specific to S/4HANA, like "SAP Certified Application Associate - SAP S/4HANA for Financial Accounting Associates (SAP S/4HANA 2020)", show an understanding of the latest SAP technology.
SAP Cloud Certifications:
With the move towards cloud, certifications in SAP Cloud Platform or SAP SuccessFactors could be relevant if your business uses or plans to use these platforms.
Complementary Certifications:
Project Management Certifications (like PMP or PRINCE2) for managing SAP projects.
ITIL for understanding IT service management which can be beneficial for SAP support roles.
Additional Considerations:
Portfolio or Case Studies: Look for evidence of past SAP projects where they've made a tangible difference. This could be through case studies, client testimonials, or a portfolio.
Continuous Education: SAP freelancers should ideally demonstrate a commitment to learning, given SAP's frequent updates and the evolving nature of ERP systems.
Industry Experience: Knowledge specific to your industry can be vital. An SAP consultant with experience in manufacturing might be more effective for a manufacturing company than one from a different sector.
Network and References: Check if they have a good standing within the SAP community or can provide references from previous clients.
When hiring, it's important to match the freelancer's skills, training, and certifications with your specific needs, whether it's for implementation, customization, support, or training. Remember, while certifications are valuable, practical experience and a track record of success in similar projects can often be equally or more important.
