Objectives and competences
In this course, students:
1. Understand the importance and role of modern business information solutions in the digital transformation of companies.
2. Learn about the architecture and functionalities of the SAP S/4HANA platform as a leading ERP solution.
3. Acquire knowledge and skills for using SAP S/4HANA to support key business processes (procurement, sales, production, finance, HR records, warehousing, projects).
4. Develop the ability to critically evaluate ERP systems, particularly in the context of real-world implementation using the SAP Activate methodology.
5. Become familiar with advanced concepts such as AI integration in ERP systems, ESG support, and the relevance of green IT.
6. Develop the ability to connect business and technological knowledge for ERP consulting and implementation.
7. Gain practical experience working with the SAP system and are prepared for independent work or participation in ERP projects.
8. Strengthen teamwork skills, digital literacy, and independent problem-solving in information environments.
Content (Syllabus outline)
The course covers modern concepts of implementing business information solutions, with a focus on the SAP S/4HANA platform. It includes both theoretical foundations and practical work in a computer-based environment.
Detailed Course Content
1. Introduction to business information solutions and ERP solutions
o The role of ERP solutions in business digitalization and digital transformation
o SAP as a platform for digital business (SAP Business Suite, SAP S/4HANA)
o Key characteristics of modern ERP systems: integration, modularity, flexibility
o Overview of current trends: cloud ERP, intelligent ERP (i-ERP), mobility, RPA, AI
2. Introduction to SAP S/4HANA and the working environment
o Introduction to SAP S/4HANA: concepts, architecture, user interface (SAP Fiori)
o System navigation and working with basic functions
o Module integration and the importance of master data
o Overview of licensing, hosting, and access (SAP GUI, SAP Web, SAP Cloud)
3. Introduction of key business processes in SAP S/4HANA
o Procurement (MM, FI): purchase orders, delivery notes, invoice posting
o Sales (SD, MM, FI): CRM, sales orders, invoicing
o Production (PP, MM): production planning and execution tracking
o Finance (FI, CO): posting, reporting, controlling
o Human resources (HCM): employee data entry and management
o Service (CS): management of service tasks
o Projects (PS): planning, execution, and cost control
o Inventory and warehouse management (IM, WM): stock and warehouse operations
4. Implementation methodology for SAP solutions – SAP Activate
o Phases of ERP implementation according to the SAP Activate methodology
o Use of reference models and best practices (Best Practices Explorer)
o The role of users and consultants in implementation projects
o Case study analysis and typical implementation challenges
5. Advanced and modern aspects of ERP solutions
o Use of artificial intelligence and automation within SAP (e.g., predictive analytics, intelligent assistants)
o Green IT and ESG – support for sustainable development in SAP solutions
o The role of ERP systems in the digital transformation of organisations
o Comparison of SAP S/4HANA with open-source solutions (e.g., Odoo)
Learning and teaching methods
- lectures;
- case analysis;
- discussion;
- programmed learning;
- practical exercises and assignments;
- simulation
- gamification
- flipped learning
Intended learning outcomes - knowledge and understanding
Development of knowledge and understanding:
Students:
1. Acquire fundamental concepts in the field of ERP systems and information architectures.
2. Learn to use SAP S/4HANA to support business processes.
3. Distinguish the key SAP modules and understand their impact on business performance.
4. Understand the role of artificial intelligence, automation, and ESG aspects in modern ERP systems.
5. Explain the importance of the SAP Activate methodology in the structured implementation of ERP solutions.
Intended learning outcomes - transferable/key skills and other attributes
Cognitive/Intellectual skills:
Students:
1. Are able to analyze and model business processes and map them into the SAP environment.
2. Plan the implementation of an ERP solution using the SAP Activate methodology.
3. Evaluate the relevance of implementing various ERP modules based on the needs of the organization.
4. Develop the ability to solve complex problems in digital business environments.
Key/Transferable skills
Students:
1. Use information and communication technologies to support business processes.
2. Collaborate in teams when planning and implementing digital solutions.
3. Strengthen their understanding of professional and digital ethics in the implementation of information systems.
4. Develop competencies for independent work and ongoing professional development.
5. Foster an interest in sustainable, responsible, and technologically advanced business practices.
Practical skills:
Students:
1. Gain practical experience working with the SAP S/4HANA solution.
2. Independently execute basic business processes (procurement, sales, finance, warehousing, production, HCM, projects) within the SAP environment.
3. Are able to use basic functionalities, master data, and analytical tools in SAP.
4. Prepare and interpret SAP reports and apply reference models and best practices.
Readings
SAP Learning Hub (free learning platform) na https://learninghub.sap.com/
Sternad Zabukovšek, S., Bobek, S., Deželak, Z. (2021). Uvajanje celovitih informacijskih rešitev – učno gradivo. Maribor: Ekonomsko-poslovna fakulteta.
Bobek, S., Deželak, Z., Šišovska Klančnik, I., Zabukovšek, U., Sternad Zabukovšek, S. (2023). Raziskava ponudnikov poslovnih informacijskih rešitev za digitalno transformacijo podjetij. Maribor: Univerzitetna založba Univerze v Mariboru
Additional information on implementation and assessment Written exam (40%)
Practical exam (40%)
Coursework (20%)
Comments:
The written exam can be replaced with two midterm exams.
The practical exam can be replaced with two midterm exams.
