Unlocking the Power of SAP SuccessFactors AI: What’s Included, What’s Extra, and Where to Start

AI is already embedded in SAP SuccessFactors AI, but to unlock its full potential, you need to understand where SAP Joule fits in.
SAP Joule is SAP’s conversational AI assistant, powered by generative AI, and it’s your entry point to Premium AI across the suite.

So, what’s included in your license? What’s extra? And how do SAP AI units actually work? Let’s break it down so you can make informed decisions about your AI roadmap.

Base vs Premium AI: What You Get and What You Unlock

SAP SuccessFactors offers two main types of AI:

• Base AI is included in your license and powered by machine learning. It supports features like learning recommendations and career or succession planning.

• Premium AI uses generative AI and large language models to unlock advanced functionality, like goal writing, job profile generation, CV skill extraction, and conversational AI through SAP Joule.

Note: Premium features are not included by default. To access them, you need SAP AI units.

Embedded Premium AI in HCM

Premium AI unlocks advanced HR functionalities embedded in your SAP SuccessFactors suite. It enables key processes like personalized learning journeys and improved performance tracking.

What Are SAP AI Units, and How Do They Work?

Think of SAP AI units as a virtual currency for Premium AI features. You purchase them in blocks, and each AI task (e.g., generating 100 goals) consumes a specific number of units.

To help you plan, SAP provides an AI Unit Estimator Tool, which you can use to model your use cases and forecast how many units you’ll need. Most organizations start small with a pilot and scale based on results.

Real-World Impact: Where Premium AI Adds Value

Premium AI enhances critical HR processes across the employee lifecycle:

• Hiring:
  Extract and match skills from CVs, auto-generate interview questions, enrich job listings with AI support.

• Performance & Development:
  Use AI to write more impactful goals, generate career path insights, infer skills through daily interactions in Continuous Performance Management.

• Learning & Skills:
  Personalize learning journeys and (optionally) integrate with Microsoft Teams for real-time, AI-driven answers to HR questions.

A Simple AI Roadmap

• Review what you already have (Base AI).

• Identify where Premium AI can add value.

• Estimate AI units needed.

• Run a small pilot and expand based on results.

AI That Adds Value, Not Complexity

SAP SuccessFactors provides a scalable, practical path to AI adoption. The tools are ready; what matters is how you apply them.

At TalenTeam, we help you choose the right use cases, navigate AI units, and drive real business outcomes through smart adoption.

Want help unlocking AI in your HR strategy?

Let’s map the right approach together. Get in touch today!