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Hasso Plattner's Legacy: From SAP's Foundation to Retirement

Writer's picture: SoftwareSelection.netSoftwareSelection.net

On May 15, 2024, Hasso Plattner, a visionary leader and one of the founding figures of SAP, stepped down from the company's Supervisory Board, marking the end of an era. Plattner’s journey with SAP spans over five decades, during which he has been instrumental in shaping the global enterprise software giant into what it is today.


The Founding of SAP

In 1972, Hasso Plattner, along with four former IBM colleagues—Dietmar Hopp, Claus Wellenreuther, Hans-Werner Hector, and Klaus Tschira—founded SAP (Systemanalyse und Programmentwicklung, later System Applications and Products in Data Processing). The aim was to develop standard application software for real-time data processing. Plattner, with his strong technical acumen, played a pivotal role in the development of SAP's early products, which revolutionized how businesses managed their operations and data.

Pioneering Enterprise Software

One of Plattner’s most significant contributions was his work on SAP R/2 and later SAP R/3, which became industry standards in enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. SAP R/3, launched in 1992, was particularly groundbreaking with its client-server architecture, enabling businesses to integrate processes across different departments seamlessly. Plattner’s vision for integrating business processes laid the foundation for what would become one of the most powerful and widely used ERP systems in the world.

Leadership and Innovation

Plattner served as CEO of SAP from 1997 to 2003. During his tenure, he emphasized innovation and customer-centric development, leading to the creation of new products and solutions that kept SAP at the forefront of technological advancements. Under his leadership, SAP expanded its product offerings to include customer relationship management (CRM), supply chain management (SCM), and more.

In 2003, Plattner transitioned to the role of Chairman of the Supervisory Board, continuing to influence SAP’s strategic direction. One of his notable initiatives was the development of SAP HANA, an in-memory computing platform that dramatically increased the speed of data processing and analytics. Launched in 2010, SAP HANA has become a cornerstone of SAP's product suite, enabling real-time analytics and high-performance applications.

Philanthropy and Education

Beyond his corporate achievements, Plattner has made significant contributions to academia and philanthropy. He founded the Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI) in Potsdam, Germany, which focuses on IT systems engineering and design thinking. HPI has become a leading institution for computer science education and research, reflecting Plattner's commitment to fostering innovation and technological education.

Plattner is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, and climate change. His contributions have supported various initiatives aimed at addressing global challenges and improving lives through technology and innovation.

Retirement and Legacy

Plattner’s decision to step down from the Supervisory Board marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in SAP’s history. His legacy is characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation, a deep understanding of customer needs, and a commitment to excellence. Under his guidance, SAP grew from a small startup to a global powerhouse, shaping the future of enterprise software.

As he retires, Plattner leaves behind a robust organization poised to continue its leadership in the tech industry. His influence will undoubtedly endure through the ongoing impact of SAP’s products and the many professionals and leaders he has inspired throughout his career.


In conclusion, Hasso Plattner's journey with SAP is a testament to visionary leadership and innovation. From its inception to becoming a global leader in enterprise software, SAP's success is a reflection of Plattner's dedication and forward-thinking approach. As the tech world bids farewell to one of its pioneering figures, Hasso Plattner’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of innovators and leaders.

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