Thirty years ago, SAP launched its certification program to help professionals demonstrate their expertise and advance their careers.
At SAP SAPPHIRE, this mission is now being redefined for a fundamentally changed environment. Because all industries are facing the same challenge today: success no longer just depends on what specialists know, but rather how well they can use this knowledge together with AI.
The technology has long since developed further. What distinguishes companies from one another today is not their access to innovations, but rather the ability to convert the insights gained into results. According to the World Economic Forum Skills gaps are the biggest barrier to transformation – ahead of investment restrictions and complex legal requirements. To close this gap, it is not enough to simply offer more training. A fundamental rethink is necessary: How are qualifications confirmed, expanded and continuously developed?
Certification rethought
SAP certification has been converted to new exam formatswhich reflect how professionals work today. In more than 100 certifications, the previous multiple-choice tests have been replaced by two types of exams: scenario-based and system-based exams. The candidates have to solve case-based problems in role simulations and work on specific tasks in simulated SAP systems that reflect real complexity. They are also allowed to use AI tools during the exams. This is intentionally intended and is not an exception.
A fundamental change is taking place here. When it comes to certification, the focus is no longer on knowledge testing. It's more about demonstrating certain skills: dealing with ambiguity, making well-founded decisions and using AI as a targeted tool without blindly relying on it. More than 100,000 exams have already been taken using this model.
Learning takes place in parallel
In the SAP Learning Hub AI is changing the way professionals work with content. Selected Google NotebookLM features are available in the customer and partner editions of the platform.
A shift is taking place: away from passive consumption towards active engagement. Learners can use SAP content in over 80 languages, ask targeted questions and receive precise answers – including direct references to official materials. In addition, the AI creates complementary formats: podcasts for situations where a screen is impractical, for example when commuting, traveling or simply taking breaks from the desk. The podcasts are suitable for passive listening, but interactive conversations with AI moderators are also possible. There are also FAQ collections, learning guides, mind maps, schedules, briefing documents and video overviews. In this way, learning adapts to individual needs and the available time frame.
The initial user numbers speak for themselves: over 7,500 users are already working with these functions. LTIMindtree reports 50 percent faster onboarding of new employees. And NTT Data Business Solutions has made the SAP Learning Hub the central platform for preparing talent for the age of Agentic AI. The trend is clear: learning is becoming part of everyday work. It doesn't take place separately from that.
Creating the data foundation
At the same time, SAP is dedicating itself to a basic requirement for effective AI: data. Many companies still work with fragmented and inconsistent data landscapes, which significantly limits the benefits of AI initiatives. The learning path Becoming a Certified SAP Data Architect imparts the skills to link, structure and manage company data so that AI systems can work on a reliable basis.
This capability is becoming increasingly strategically important. Companies that build a solid foundation of data are able to gain insight and take action more quickly. You can better scale AI and achieve more consistent business results. In this sense, data architecture is no longer just a backend issue, but rather a central lever for the transformation of the entire company.
Skills at scale
SAP has set itself the goal of making 12 million people fit to use AI by 2030. To do this, it must make it easier to access learning opportunities, although the scope and relevance of the learning content should remain the same. Selected Live sessions on AI How All Things Business AI: Latest Insights, Updates & Live Demos are now available without registration and free of charge. This gives specialists, regardless of their career stage, direct insight into SAP’s business AI strategy.
Role-based learning paths enable targeted further development for important roles such as Enterprise Architects. A separate course on the topic of “Clean Core” helps companies set up their SAP S/4HANA landscapes in such a way that faster innovation cycles and a more efficient introduction of new functions are possible.
In order to build up competencies as broadly as possible, the reach of the partner network is also required. Through the partnership with Accenture LearnVantage, SAP is expanding the Global access to instructor-led training and combines SAP-created content and training systems with Accenture LearnVantage's proven experience in developing technology skills for enterprise customers. This creates a continuous learning path: from the basics through practical experience to certification. In the same way, specialists develop their skills in practice: step by step, in the respective context and with reference to real applications.
A fundamental change
These developments indicate a fundamental change. Learning no longer takes place selectively. It happens continuously, adapts and is firmly anchored in everyday work. Participation in SAP learning opportunities has increased by 33 percent year-on-year. A clear sign that companies are increasingly seeing skills as a strategic resource in an AI-supported economy. The autonomous company looks different in every industry – and so do the skills it needs.
At SAP SAPPHIRE, SAP celebrates 30 years of certification. But she doesn't look back, she looks forward and redefines certification. The certification becomes proof of the ability to act and solve problems. Learning becomes an ongoing process that evolves as technology and business needs evolve.
In a world dominated by AI, competitive advantage does not come from access to technology alone. What is crucial is the ability to use them in a targeted manner. The same pattern emerges across industries: How quickly companies benefit from AI depends on their ability to use it in a targeted manner.
You can find out more about these innovations and how SAP supports companies in building AI competencies at scale SAP SAPPHIRE Innovation News Guide.
Andre Bechtold is President and Head of SAP Industries & Experiences
The post Certification in the AI Age: From Knowledge to Competence appeared first on SAP News Center.
