SAP ERP solutions can revolutionize the way you run your business. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) allows you to form a streamlined network of operations, finances and human capital management. An SAP ERP software download can help you increase productivity in just about all areas of your operations. You'll waste less money and time on marketing and advertising, which lets you apply additional money and resources for other areas of your business.

The software can also cut costs through better management of vital business resources, but only if your employees know how to use it properly. ERP software from SAP is generally easy to use, but there are training opportunities available through SAP and other resources. SAP ERP software education and training can include:

1. Training courses to learn specific SAP ERP systems.

2. Certification to become a SAP certified consultant.

3. Training tools from third-party resources.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Attend training courses to learn how to use ERP systems SAP software

SAP provides many different training courses for companies that utilize its software programs and suites. Through SAP's training catalog you can access introductory training courses to learn the basics of the software, as well as specific functions. Advanced training topics and options are also available through SAP.

I recommend: SAP Education provides a large number of training topics for SAP ERP software, including introductory training and advanced topics in on-site and e-learning formats. Online Knowledge Products is a continuing education resource from SAP that provides users with self-paced refresher and advanced skills courses. The company also offers industry-specific training to meet the unique requirements of certain industries.

Learn to use a SAP ERP download with third party training

Besides training opportunities from SAP, third parties can also teach you to use SAP ERP software. Opportunities include classroom training, online training and CD-ROM courses. While these services are sometime expensive, it is an easy way to get materials for in-house training sessions on different versions of the program.

I recommend: Netwind Learning Center offers CD-ROM courses for a number of SAP versions. It's materials are multimedia presentations that work with any computer operating system. ERPSelfTraining.com provides many training tools for all types of ERP software titles.

Become a certified consultant to work with SAP enterprise resource planning software vendors

If you already know how to use SAP's software, you can train to become certified consultant and help others implement SAP ERP. You'll learn about installation, implementation, and how to lead software training sessions.

I recommend: The SAP Certification Program provides training for those who want to become a SAP ERP software consultant. If you want to get certified for a specific application or job, the company's Certification Finder can help you find opportunities.

The SAP enterprise resource planning software is an application developed by SAP AG. SAP focuses on assisting midsized and large organizations with software business requirements in all sectors and industries. SAP ERP software is the next generation of SAP R/3.

SAP enterprise resource planning systems can enhance business productivity as well as improve the alignment of your corporate strategies and operations. SAP ERP solutions support four key functional business areas:

1. SAP ERP systems for financial applications helps your company thrive in an environment of intense competition, increasing regulatory oversight, and unpredictable market conditions.

2. Human Capital Management ERP software from SAP gives your company or organization the tools it needs to manage your most valuable assets -- your employees.

3. SAP ERP solutions for operations assists your company with increasing the speed of product and service delivery to customers.

4. SAP ERP systems for corporate services aids your company in managing various aspects of your company in the most effective way.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare ERP technology, SAP to other software distributors

SAP enterprise resource planning software aids with management, staff and equipment integration. The focus is on developing one system, which combines all business aspects, to streamline all elements of a manufacturing process. In the lead of ERP software, SAP continues to grow and make great strides in the field of enterprise resource planning.

I recommend: Use the Technology Evaluation Center's Enterprise Resource Planning Evaluation Center to compare vendors and services side by side with SAP. The comparison tool at RFP Evaluation Centers helps you assess eight key areas of ERP software to determine the software that best fits your needs and budget.

Join the ranks of SAP enterprise resource planning software vendors

An SAP independent software vendor (ISV) is a vendor partner with SAP through the SAP Netweaver platform. Partners and ISVs become part of an exchange infrastructure of companies creating growth and prosperity solutions.

I recommend: The SAP Community Network has resources and information for you to look through, including details on the types of SAP community partnerships available to you.

Take SAP for a test drive with an SAP ERP software download

Access SAP ERP software before you purchase it. You can grab an SAP ERP download and install to your own computer to use at your leisure. Explore the software and learn some of the benefits from firsthand experience.

I recommend: Technology Evaluation Centers (TEC) has an ERP evaluation center which includes a free ERP software comparison download. Register on the TEC site to compare various enterprise software solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The SAP automobile ERP software can help your automotive supply business gain visibility and improve control over every aspect of the business including product development, supply chain management, manufacturing operations, finance and accounting, as well as aftermarket service.