Introduction
As part of my PR activity for the Professional Networking module, I hosted an insightful podcast episode titled “Navigating the Future of SAP: Insights from Expertum’s Leaders.” This episode featured Bert Vanstechelman, CEO of Expertum Consulting, and Stijn Mertens, Community Lead SAP Development at Expertum. The conversation delved into the world of SAP, Expertum’s role in the SAP landscape, and future trends in SAP technology.
Episode Overview
In this episode, we explored several key areas:
- SAP Essentials: Bert provided a thorough introduction to SAP, explaining its origins and its pivotal role in business integration across various industries. He highlighted how SAP systems are deeply embedded in everyday operations, from ticketing systems in public transport to billing systems in hospitals.
- Expertum’s Influence: We discussed Expertum’s unique position within the SAP landscape. Founded by former SAP employees, Expertum focuses on adapting SAP solutions to meet business needs effectively. The company has grown significantly, with offices in Belgium, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Croatia, serving a diverse range of clients.
- Future Trends: The conversation then shifted to the future of SAP technology. Both Bert and Stijn shared insights on the shift towards cloud-based solutions, the concept of the ‘SAP Clean Core,’ and the implications for SAP consultants. They emphasized the move away from heavily customized on-premise systems towards more standardized, cloud-based solutions that are easier to maintain and upgrade.
https://spotify.link/XIJgK2wljKb
Reflection
Hosting this podcast was a fantastic learning experience. It provided a platform to engage with industry leaders and gain deep insights into the evolving landscape of SAP. The discussions about the future of SAP, particularly the shift towards cloud solutions and the ‘SAP Clean Core,’ were particularly enlightening. These trends highlight the need for continuous learning and adaptability in the tech industry, a sentiment echoed throughout the episode.
Conclusion
This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of SAP in business and technology. It offers valuable perspectives from top leaders at Expertum Consulting and explores the dynamic world of SAP in detail. I am grateful to Bert Vanstechelman and Stijn Mertens for sharing their expertise and to Howest University of Applied Sciences for providing the platform to make this possible.


