Inside SAP’s Next Wave of Innovation: AI, Data, and the Business Suite Reimagined
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Key Takeaways
⇨ AI is a present catalyst for transformation in enterprise technology, with SAP evolving into an interconnected system of intelligent cloud applications, a harmonised Business Data Cloud, and embedded Business AI.
⇨ SAP's integration with Databricks allows businesses to leverage both structured and unstructured data, exemplified by Norfolk Southern Railway's use of image recognition to detect railcar defects.
⇨ To effectively implement AI, organisations should move to the cloud, invest in robust data governance, and empower their workforce with training and confidence to utilize AI as a collaborative tool.
We are at a pivotal moment in enterprise technology, where the power of AI is no longer a future promise but a present catalyst for transformation. Fresh from the vibrant floors of Mastering SAP in Singapore, I had the chance to catch up with one of the most insightful voices in our ecosystem – Timo Elliott, SAP’s own innovation evangelist, for a candid conversation on what’s ahead for customers navigating SAP’s latest announcements.
In this episode, Timo broke down the evolution of the SAP Business Suite into an interconnected trio: intelligent cloud applications, a harmonised Business Data Cloud, and embedded Business AI powered by Joule and AI agents. Together, they form a powerful cycle – apps generate data, data fuels AI, and AI improves the apps and business outcomes.
One standout topic was SAP’s deepening integration with Databricks, enabling customers to tap into both structured SAP data and unstructured sources. We explored a great example from Norfolk Southern Railway, where image recognition helps detect railcar defects using data processed seamlessly across SAP and Databricks.
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We also talked about the rise of agentic AI, where AI assistants move from predefined workflows to goal-driven outcomes. Think digital interns handling repetitive work, presenting options, and leaving final decisions with the user—unlocking strategic time for business teams.
For those asking, “Where do I start?” Timo shared a practical answer: You already have AI inside your SAP cloud solutions. From SuccessFactors to S/4HANA Cloud, AI features are embedded, often invisible yet powerful. Activating Joule and exploring existing capabilities is the quickest path forward. We also touched on real-world applications from Aspen Pumps enhancing customer experiences to AMD accelerating the troubleshooting of sales order fulfilment issues using generative AI on SAP BTP.
Finally, a call to action for all organisations:
- Move to the cloud with a clean core.
- Invest in a solid data foundation and governance.
- Most importantly, engage your people—give them training, tools, and confidence to embrace AI as a co-pilot, not a threat.
There’s more detail and inspiration in the full conversation, so I invite you to tune in and explore how SAP’s innovations can shape the next chapter of your business transformation journey.
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