Experience the Strategic Planning Phase of SAP Consulting at Kinki University

NTT Data GSL Hosts a Unique Event for Future SAP Consultants

In February 2026, NTT Data Global Solutions (GSL) held an innovative experience event for students at Kinki University’s Faculty of Engineering. This initiative aimed to immerse participants in the strategic planning phase of SAP consulting, focusing on real-world applications of consulting practices. The event was designed specifically for students from Kinki University's Information Science department in Higashi-Hiroshima City, providing a collaborative environment for learning and skill development.

Background of the Collaboration

NTT Data GSL has been working closely with Kinki University since November last year to foster digital talent capable of meeting modern IT demands. Following a successful introductory session that highlighted the basics of ERP and SAP, the subsequent event further refined its focus to offer students an authentic experience in the consulting field. This session aimed not only to present the enjoyment and challenges of SAP consulting but also to convey a clear understanding of its complexities.

Program Overview

The session, taught by Assistant Professor Kimura, welcomed nine students particularly interested in SAP. It was a one-day event where participants tackled the upstream phase of "concept formulation." The agenda mimicked real-world scenarios, directing students to address business challenges as if instructed by a company president. Throughout the event, groups analyzed various stakeholders including sales, production, purchasing, and accounting departments to uncover critical issues and suggest business benefits associated with SAP implementation.

In this program, the participants were split into teams to engage in discussions aimed at visualizing the "invisible losses" caused by disjointed systems and the prospective risks associated. The core objective was to explore the process of converting challenges into value. Teams practiced organizing scattered information and translating it into two distinct forms of value:

1. Deriving Quantitative Benefits from Opportunity Loss
- Reconceptualizing the divided system state as not just a mere inconvenience but as lost profits.
- Cultivating the ability to logically deduce the direct contributions to benefits that stem from system integration.

2. Deriving Qualitative Benefits from Risk
- Recognizing challenges such as "personal reliance" and "data discrepancies" as latent risks to management.
- Understanding how resolving these issues could lead to long-term enhancements in corporate infrastructure, thus promoting business continuity planning and governance.

All participants later presented their findings, receiving feedback from NTT Data’s Yagi and Kinki University’s Assistant Professor Kimura, ensuring a comprehensive conclusion to the event.

Evaluation of the Program

Feedback from the students highlighted a high level of satisfaction with the experience, noting two significant aspects that contributed to their learning.

1. Deepening Thought and Practical Learning
- Many attendees expressed enjoyment in the critical thinking process, tackling the complexities of identifying issues and conceptualizing solutions. They noted how the practical experience bridged classroom knowledge with real-world applications, helping them grasp how concepts translate into practice. Comments highlighted that some students could identify misconceptions during the program, emphasizing the learning impact.

2. Insights from Experienced Employees
- Direct interactions with professionals from the company were highly valued. Students benefited from feedback during presentations and informal guidance amid discussions, which pushed their critical thinking skills forward. They appreciated gaining insights that might not be prevalent in academic settings, though some expressed challenges in fully understanding the practical backdrop due to lack of experience with SAP systems.

Future Perspectives

Recognizing a significant shortage of IT talent, particularly in SAP, NTT Data GSL emphasizes the importance of nurturing future professionals. By leveraging the expertise gained through their internal training program known as GSL University, NTT Data aims to extend knowledge and skills to a broader student audience, enhancing their understanding of SAP. The initiatives are set to bolster long-term SAP talent development, market expansion, and ultimately strengthen the competitive edge of Japanese enterprises.

About GSL University

GSL University is NTT Data GSL’s internal institution that fosters growth to support organizational development. Its mission focuses on enhancing individual and organizational value to sustain and expand operations effectively.

About NTT Data Global Solutions

Established in July 2012, NTT Data GSL addresses the growing demand for global systems in conjunction with Japanese companies expanding internationally. It integrates SAP solutions with business know-how, providing comprehensive services from implementation to operation and development. The company has repeatedly received the "SAP Award of Excellence" since 2013, reflecting its high standing as an SAP partner.

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