Sadan Das is a Project Manager, Capgemini India focusing on SAP Implementation for Domestic Clients. He has 15 years of experience in Steel Industry and SAP in areas of PP,QM and PM.
SAP Ignite decided to interview him and gather high-quality advice on dealing with Domestic Clients and several tips to be a kick-ass Consultant.
: A number of SAP Consulting firms face lot of heat while dealing with Domestic Clients. How should a SAP Consultant prepare himself before facing a Domestic Client for SAP Projects?
Sadan : It is important that SAP Consultant should study and understand the Business Process of the Industry before interacting with the Clients. You should also get in touch with Key and experienced members of client to build trust and confidence on you as they can be of great help during the project time span.
It is also important that you keep aside your SAP Terminology while talking to the Clients e.g. While interacting with Key members of the client say Steel Industry you should be aware of every phase of manufacturing in proper business terminology.
I would give 50 % weightage on the importance of knowledge on Business Process and 50 % on SAP knowledge.
: You have witnessed a transition of career from having Domain Experience into SAP Consulting. What has been your story of breaking into SAP Consulting?
Sadan : I have neither done any certification nor any SAP training to get into SAP Consulting. I was working as a member of core team of PP in Bhusan Steel India when Siemens Information system was implementing SAP for Bhusan Steel in year 2002. Slowly I started leading the SAP Practices with Bhusan Steel and then joined HCL as SAP PP Consultant.
: What sort of changes do you feel one should in cultivate while switching career to IT Industry with Domain experience.
Sadan : A person must change his/her attitudinal behavior and way of talking to the client when starting a career in IT industry wit Domain experience.
: You have got more than 15 years of experience. What has been your toughest time in your career.
Sadan : The going becomes tough when you don’t have any Mentor or Guide in your professional life. I would recommend everyone to search for your right mentor who can lead you by setting examples.
: How do you spend your time when you are not doing SAP ?
Sadan : I like to spend time with my Kids and Read Books whenever I get time after my work life.
