Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way businesses operate, especially in sales departments integrated within Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. But while the opportunities are immense, Tunde Ogunyankinnu, an SAP Solutions Expert with deep expertise in AI and Machine Learning, says the journey is far from straightforward.
Ogunyankinnu made this known in a recent media chat, where he emphasized that while AI is driving transformational change, it also presents significant challenges.
“AI is fundamentally changing how sales teams operate within ERP environments,” he said. “From automating order processing to generating predictive sales forecasts that anticipate market trends months in advance, the shift is undeniable. But these advancements don’t come automatically.”
He warned that businesses often underestimate the technical and organizational hurdles involved. “Companies need to tackle issues around data quality, system compatibility, and workforce readiness. These aren’t minor concerns—they’re make-or-break factors.”
Ogunyankinnu pointed to real-world successes to highlight AI’s promise. “We’ve seen multinational retailers increase their demand forecasting accuracy by 40% just by integrating AI into their SAP HANA systems,” he shared. “Another client, a manufacturing firm, slashed order processing time by 30% using AI-driven automation. That translated into better cash flow and happier customers.”
Yet, many organizations are held back by outdated infrastructure. “The ERP systems of ten years ago simply weren’t built for today’s AI capabilities,” he noted. “Businesses must decide whether to overhaul their systems or pursue costly incremental upgrades.”
Data quality, he added, remains a critical issue. “Let’s be honest, most sales data isn’t clean. Incomplete or inconsistent information can completely derail AI initiatives. Implementing robust data governance might not be exciting, but it’s essential.”
When it comes to implementation, Ogunyankinnu emphasized the human element. “Technology is just one piece of the puzzle. Sales teams need to see AI as an ally, not a threat. Training and change management are just as crucial as the code behind the scenes.”
Looking to the future, Ogunyankinnu outlined key trends that are shaping AI’s role in sales operations. “Predictive analytics are becoming more real-time and generative AI is set to transform how companies interact with customers. We’re also starting to see AI making autonomous decisions across the supply chain.”
He concluded with a word of caution and encouragement. “The companies that will thrive are those that see AI as a journey—not a checkbox. Continuous learning, investment, and alignment between tech and people are what will set the winners apart.”
For organizations exploring AI-powered ERP transformation, Ogunyankinnu offered practical guidance: “Start with clear objectives. Build cross-functional teams that connect IT and sales. And above all, don’t underestimate the power of clean, well-organized data. AI is a tool, not a miracle, but in the right hands, it’s a game changer.”