What does corporate accounting look like? – SAP in accounting
17 July 2025As a global company operating in a dynamic business environment, we must ensure the highest standards in accounting, reporting, and regulatory compliance.
Many companies face the challenge of managing finances on a large scale. For us, it's an everyday reality! Traditional methods have long ceased to suffice – hence the decision to implement the SAP system. Thanks to SAP, we have full control over accounting, and the processes are automated and integrated. SAP is our secret weapon in managing transactions, optimizing processes, and delivering reliable data for strategic decision-making. In this article, we’ll show you what accounting looks like at METRO, the benefits of SAP, and how the implementation process unfolds in our company. Ready for a journey into the world of corporate accounting? Let’s get started!
SAP in accounting - what does corporate accounting look like?
Accounting in large companies is a whole different story! When it comes to corporations, there's no room for accidental errors. Every move must be precisely planned. SAP, one of the most powerful ERP systems, allows us to flawlessly manage finances and transactions, and enables full integration with other departments at METRO. This way, we not only streamline day-to-day operations but also gain strategic data to support key decision-making. With SAP at our fingertips, nothing can surprise us!
How is corporate accounting different from accounting in smaller companies?
Comparing corporate accounting to that of small businesses reveals a massive difference! In smaller firms, many processes can be handled manually with simple tools. In corporations like METRO, we deal with vast amounts of data, global transactions, and complex legal regulations. We need tools that provide automation, complete control, and efficiency. That’s where SAP comes in – perfectly addressing these needs by enabling fast, accurate, and secure financial management.
Why do large companies and corporations choose ERP Systems like SAP?
SAP is more than just a technology – it’s the key to success in the world of corporate accounting. So, what does this system offer?
- Business process integration
All departments work from the same database. Lack of synchronization? Not here! - Improved control and compliance
SAP helps keep the company on the right track, aligned with current standards and regulations. - Process automation
SAP significantly reduces repetitive manual data entry. - Cost optimization
More time for value-adding tasks, less wasted resources. - Scalability
The system grows with us, adapting to changing needs.
Which SAP modules are most commonly used in accounting?
At METRO, we use several advanced SAP modules to support our daily operations:
- SAP Financial Accounting and Controlling (FICO) – the heart of our financial and controlling management.
- SAP Material Management (MM) – supports procurement and inventory management.
- SAP Sales and Distribution (SD) – handles sales and invoicing processes.
- SAP Plant Maintenance (PM) – ensures maintenance operations and investments.
- SAP Investment Management (IM) – aids in planning and controlling investments.
Additionally, we use tools such as SAP Invoice Management by OpenText (VIM) to streamline invoice handling, although this is not part of the core SAP system.
What goals did the company aim to achieve by implementing SAP in the accounting department?
At METRO, we had two main objectives: automation and optimization. SAP helped us achieve both, resulting in increased work efficiency, minimized errors, and full transparency in reporting. We also gained better financial control, allowing for more accurate strategic decisions. SAP is not just a tool – it's our development partner!
What does the training process look like for employees responsible for SAP-based accounting?
The training process at METRO is carefully structured and consists of several key steps:
- Assignment of a test environment account
new employees begin by learning in a safe test environment where they can experiment and actively build new skills using our tools. - Introductory training
followed by a 3-hour session combining theory and practice. The classes are interactive, allowing everyone to ask questions and test the system firsthand. - Working with a mentor
at this stage, new employees learn how to work in a team, supported by mentors who guide them through hands-on experience. - Accreditation exam
after thorough training, it’s time to evaluate the acquired skills through an accreditation exam. - Access to the production environment
once the exam is passed, the new employee gains full access to real company data and starts taking on SAP responsibilities. Full accountability begins here!
Summary
At METRO, we rely on modern, automated accounting based on the SAP system. It provides us with full financial control, process integration, and better data for decision-making. We use advanced SAP modules and invest in comprehensive employee training to maintain the highest standards.
Want to work with the best technologies in an international environment? Join METRO and grow with us – apply today!
