Bridging Borders with Design: When Diversity Fuels Innovation

Showcased on the TV show Europe ByDesign, SAP champions the integration of learning and innovation, underscoring our commitment to designing technology that is delightful for everyone

SAP Design
Experience Matters
4 min readJun 2, 2024

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Abstract composition of translucent blue geometric shapes. Various rectangles and parallelograms overlap and intersect, casting subtle shadows and creating a sense of depth. The shapes are set against a gradient blue background that gives the image a cool, glass-like aesthetic.

European design has long stood at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, a testament to a rich heritage of knowledge passed through generations, yet always with an eye toward the future. This dynamic interplay between old and new, tradition and technological advancement, shapes the continent’s design landscape, making it a fertile ground for cutting-edge innovations. From smart shoes that sync with our phones to methane-reduction devices for cows — the realm of design is boundlessly inventive. These innovations underscore a broader philosophy: design is not a luxury but a service that should be accessible to everyone. It’s a principle that echoes through the pixels of Europe ByDesign: Innovations, a TV-show showcasing the continent’s most groundbreaking design work, and reinforcing the idea that good design is a universal right.

At SAP, we’re thrilled to have been featured on this platform where design meets innovation, showcasing the creative prowess the world has to offer. The show, a successor to the acclaimed America ByDesign, highlights how design is fundamental to our everyday lives, but also aligns perfectly with our mission at SAP: to help the world run better and improve people’s lives.

Making the world a better place, one experience at a time

At SAP, we see ourselves not merely as leaders in technology, but as dedicated advocates committed to embedding principles of inclusion throughout our design process. Showcasing our work on Europe ByDesign was not only a moment of pride but also a testament to our unwavering commitment to inclusive design. In a world where over 1.3 billion people live with disabilities and a significant percentage of the population is neurodivergent (WHO), our dedication to crafting accessible products is at the core of what we do. We’re in the business of developing more than just software; we’re committed to crafting universally usable experiences, catering to everyone from the color-blind marketer to the dyslexic CEO.

Our design philosophy breathes new life into the tech industry, proving that inclusion goes beyond being a buzzword but the cornerstone of groundbreaking innovation. Our commitment to this philosophy is deeply supported by resources such as the SAP Inclusive Research Handbook and the SAP Accessibility Toolkit, which provide comprehensive guidelines for integrating accessibility and inclusivity at every stage of product development. These resources have been pivotal in shaping our approach, ensuring that our products are designed to be more than just functional; they are crafted to be delightful and accessible to everyone. For instance, our Corona Warn App, developed in a swift six weeks, stands as a shining example of our inclusive approach. This app transcends technological achievement to become a beacon of equity, inspired by the collaborative insights of a developer who is blind and simultaneously an experienced screen reader user.

Our journey in design is a constant reminder that the most profound innovations arise from a deep understanding and appreciation of the diverse tapestry of human experiences. To be truly innovative, we must design with everyone in mind. As the world evolves, our commitment to inclusivity remains steadfast, guiding us to create solutions that aren’t just effective but are empathetic and equitable.

The art of evolving with the job market: SAP’s learning platform

Diversity affects everything, even how we learn, showing that different people have different ways of understanding things. This becomes especially relevant in today’s job market, which is far from static. In the ever-changing landscape of careers, the idea of a lifelong, unchanging job role is fading into the past. At SAP, we recognize the critical importance of adaptability, flexibility, and the continuous drive to evolve with the shifting terrains of business and employment. The SAP Learning Platform stands at the forefront of supporting this evolution, crafted to empower individuals with the skills and adaptability needed to flourish in the dynamic job market — yet another innovation we are proud to say was featured in Europe ByDesign.

We understand that learning is a personal journey, varied in style and pace for everyone. It’s why our platform merges the traditional classroom setting with interactive, digital learning experiences to offer a comprehensive and customizable learning environment. This approach mirrors the adaptability demanded in today’s workplace, ensuring individuals are not just prepared for the jobs of today but are also equipped to take on the challenges of tomorrow.

When artificial intelligence fuels human intelligence

At the heart of our personalized learning experience is the innovative use of AI. By analyzing user interactions and leveraging a vast content library, our platform is capable of tailoring educational resources to meet the individual needs and preferences of each user. Much like Netflix’s content recommendation engine, our platform tailors the learning journey to each individual’s unique needs.

Moreover, our commitment at SAP extends beyond individual learning to enhance the human experience at work through technology. As Chief Design Officer Arin Bhowmick mentions, blending human elements with technological advancements underscores the paradoxical yet successful aim to make the workplace more human through the use of technology. We’re committed to preparing both individuals and organizations to face the forthcoming challenges and opportunities, reinforcing our vision of a world where everyone has the right tools to succeed.

Interested in advancing your skills in SAP? Explore our learning journeys for the latest in UX, development, analytics, and cloud skills. Get certified with expert-led, hands-on lessons tailored to your career goals.

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