Introduction
As 2026 approaches, the world of enterprise technology is entering a new era, one defined by AI-driven intelligence, cloud-native transformation, and modular, data-powered business systems. For companies running SAP and consultants shaping these projects, the question is no longer “if” digital transformation will happen but “how fast” and “how ready we are” for what’s coming next. In this article, we explore the most significant SAP trends shaping 2026 and beyond – from artificial intelligence and S/4HANA migrations to cloud ERP, clean core strategies, ESG, and hyperautomation. Whether you’re a business leader planning the next move or a consultant navigating the SAP ecosystem, here’s what you need to know – and how to prepare.
1. AI Everywhere: The Rise of SAP Joule and Intelligent ERP
Artificial intelligence is moving from “nice to have” to the very core of SAP’s DNA. In 2026, SAP systems will be increasingly infused with embedded AI that augments processes, automates repetitive work, and provides predictive insights across finance, HR, supply chain, and beyond. SAP’s new AI copilot, Joule, is leading the charge – enabling users to interact with ERP through natural language, receive smart recommendations, and accelerate workflows. Instead of static transactions, users will experience a conversational ERP, where the system anticipates needs and executes tasks automatically. By 2026, over 70% of new SAP features are expected to include AI capabilities. For clients, this means greater agility and smarter decision – making; for consultants, it’s time to master AI integration within SAP projects.
2. The Great Migration: SAP S/4HANA as the Digital Core
The countdown is on: SAP ECC support ends in 2027, with limited extensions available until 2030. That deadline is driving thousands of organizations to fast – track their migration to SAP S/4HANA – a modern, cloud-ready ERP built for real-time analytics, automation, and continuous innovation. But moving to S/4HANA is more than a technical upgrade. It’s a strategic transformation. The shift unlocks opportunities to simplify processes, redesign data models, and modernize business operations. Many companies are embracing hybrid migration strategies – balancing innovation with stability – while SAP’s RISE with SAP program provides a guided path to cloud ERP transformation. For clients, planning early is essential: skilled SAP talent is in high demand, and the closer we get to 2027, the harder it becomes to find experienced consultants. For consultants, this is a golden era – S/4HANA expertise will remain one of the most valuable skills in the market.
3. Cloud ERP as the New Normal
The shift from on – premise to cloud-based ERP is now unstoppable. Organizations are choosing S/4HANA Cloud (public or private editions) for its scalability, security, and faster access to innovation. The benefits are clear: lower total cost of ownership, automatic quarterly updates, and freedom from legacy infrastructure. SAP’s RISE model bundles software, infrastructure, and services into one subscription – giving companies an all-in-one pathway to cloud transformation. In a cloud – first world, flexibility and resilience matter more than ever. Companies that embrace modular, API – driven architectures can respond to market changes in real time. By 2027, analysts predict that over 75% of enterprises will have replaced their monolithic on – prem systems with cloud-native ERP platforms.
4. Clean Core and Modular ERP: Simplicity is the New Strength
SAP’s Clean Core philosophy is reshaping how companies think about ERP customization. The idea is simple: keep the core system “clean” – free of unnecessary custom code – and move all extensions to SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) or side-by-side apps. This approach reduces technical debt, accelerates upgrades, and improves cloud readiness. With SAP BTP, companies can extend their ERP with low – code tools, automation workflows, or AI capabilities without modifying the underlying system. For consultants, understanding Clean Core architecture and BTP is now a must. For clients, adopting Clean Core ensures long-term agility and cost efficiency – future – proofing your SAP landscape for continuous innovation.
5. ESG and Sustainability: From Compliance to Core Strategy
Sustainability has moved from boardroom talk to core business metrics. Regulatory frameworks like CSRD in the EU are forcing companies to integrate ESG data directly into their business systems. SAP’s solutions, such as SAP Sustainability Control Tower, Product Footprint Management, and the newly launched SAP Green Ledger, enable organizations to track carbon emissions, manage supply chain sustainability, and generate auditable ESG reports directly from SAP. By 2026, sustainability won’t just be about compliance – it will be about operational efficiency and brand value. Companies that embed ESG into their SAP processes will gain not only transparency but also competitive differentiation.
6. Hyperautomation: Smarter Processes, Less Manual Work
Automation has been part of SAP for years, but the next wave is hyperautomation – combining RPA, AI, process mining, and low – code to automate end-to-end business processes. SAP’s Build Process Automation (part of BTP) enables companies to connect workflows, bots, and analytics under one roof. Paired with SAP Signavio, organizations can discover inefficiencies, simulate process improvements, and deploy automations where they bring the highest ROI. For clients, this means faster operations and lower costs. For consultants, understanding automation design and governance will become an essential capability. The future ERP is not just digital – it’s self-optimizing.
7. The Human Factor: SAP SuccessFactors and HXM
As AI and automation transform how we work, the focus shifts toward employee experience. SAP’s SuccessFactors HXM Suite (Human Experience Management) redefines HR from administrative to strategic – using data and AI to improve engagement, retention, and productivity. In 2026, SuccessFactors will be heavily infused with generative AI: creating job descriptions, matching candidates, and recommending personalized learning paths. The AI copilot Joule is also embedded into SuccessFactors, helping managers and employees complete HR tasks conversationally. For HR teams, the challenge is to blend empathy with data. For consultants, deep knowledge of SuccessFactors and AI-driven HR will remain one of the hottest skill sets on the market.
8. SAP BTP: The Innovation Engine
The SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) is the backbone of modern SAP innovation. It connects applications, extends ERP capabilities, and enables real-time data intelligence through Integration Suite, Extension Suite, DataSphere, Analytics Cloud, and AI Core. BTP empowers companies to innovate faster and safer, using low-code tools like SAP Build and composable architecture principles. It also promotes collaboration between IT and business users – allowing “citizen developers” to create solutions while IT governs the ecosystem. Simply put, BTP is the bridge between SAP’s standard functionality and the limitless innovation potential of cloud-native technology.
For Clients (SAP End-Users)
- Start your S/4HANA journey now. Waiting until 2027 is risky – start planning your roadmap, choose a migration path (greenfield, brownfield, or hybrid), and secure experienced partners early.
- Adopt the Clean Core mindset. Simplify, standardize, and extend via BTP to keep your systems agile and upgrade-friendly.
- Leverage AI and automation pragmatically. Identify high-impact use cases and pilot them before scaling.
- Make ESG part of your digital strategy. Integrate sustainability reporting into your core SAP processes.
- Invest in skills and partnerships. The right people – internally and externally – are your biggest advantage in digital transformation.
For Consultants
- Master S/4HANA and the cloud stack. These are must-have skills for the next decade.
- Learn SAP BTP inside out. From Integration Suite to SAP Build and AI Core – BTP expertise sets you apart.
- Embrace AI and analytics. Even non – data specialists should understand how SAP’s AI and data tools drive business value.
- Think beyond modules. Focus on end – to – end processes and business outcomes, not just configuration.
- Build your brand. Share your knowledge in the SAP Community, engage on LinkedIn, and stay visible – opportunities often follow visibility
Conclusion: The Future Is Intelligent, Cloud-Driven, and Human
The SAP world in 2026 and beyond will be smarter, more connected, and deeply human. Artificial intelligence, cloud ERP, clean core, ESG, and automation are not separate trends – they are building blocks of a new business reality. For organizations, the coming years are an opportunity to modernize, simplify, and innovate. For consultants, it’s a chance to shape the future – and to be the experts guiding companies through this transformation. At our company, we see these changes every day. We connect SAP clients with top – tier consultants, helping both sides succeed in this fast-evolving ecosystem.
