Automating Invoice Processing in SAP – Why Taking the Next Step Pays Off

For many organizations, automating invoice processing in SAP is no longer just a vision—it’s reality. Digital workflows, OCR technology, and even the first AI-driven approaches are already in use. Yet, recent research shows that companies stopping after these initial steps miss out on significant efficiency gains and competitive advantages.

Automation Is Widespread—But Often Not Deep Enough

A July 2025 study by ASUG (Americas’ SAP Users’ Group) in collaboration with xSuite reveals that 77% of surveyed companies already leverage partially automated processes in accounts payable. However, 58% reported that fewer than 40% of their invoices are processed fully automatically—so-called touchless invoice processing.

The bottom line: while automation has begun in many organizations, it is often not yet deeply embedded in end-to-end processes.

Higher Automation Levels Improve Process Quality

The study highlights a clear link between the level of automation and common challenges in accounts payable. Companies with higher automation rates report fewer issues such as:

• Manual data entry (63% in low-automation companies vs. 38% with stronger automation)
• Errors due to disconnected processes and system gaps
• High staffing needs for repetitive, routine tasks

Increasing automation not only eliminates error sources but also frees up AP teams, significantly improving process quality and long-term efficiency.

Employee Satisfaction Grows with Automation

The research also shows that satisfaction among accounts payable staff is directly tied to automation levels. Currently, 54% of respondents say they are satisfied with their invoice processing setup. The key drivers:

• Efficiency gains through digital workflows
• Fewer manual errors
• Better allocation of staff to value-adding, strategic tasks

The message is clear: automation delivers benefits beyond cost savings—it also boosts employee satisfaction and retention.

Even Advanced Companies See Room for Improvement

Interestingly, even companies that describe their SAP invoice processing as largely automated see additional potential. In fact, 69% of these organizations say further optimization of AP automation will be important or very important in the next 12–24 months.

This underscores a crucial insight: automation is not a one-off project but an ongoing journey of continuous improvement. Businesses already using AP automation in SAP should regularly evaluate whether their current solution still meets today’s requirements—or whether a more modern, AI-ready alternative could deliver additional value.

AI as the Next Game-Changer

Artificial intelligence is seen as the next major lever for accounts payable automation with SAP. Survey respondents expect AI-driven solutions to drive substantial progress in the coming years:

• 61% anticipate a significant increase in AI-powered tools within the next two years.
• 89% believe AI will reduce repetitive AP tasks and free up capacity for more strategic, value-adding work.

Companies choosing solutions that already integrate AI—or are prepared for AI expansion—will secure a decisive advantage for the future.

Conclusion: Automation Is Not a Project—It’s a Journey

The ASUG and xSuite study makes one point crystal clear: companies that have taken their first steps toward SAP invoice automation should not stop there.

The benefits of advancing automation are obvious: fewer errors, higher efficiency, more satisfied employees—and a stronger foundation for AI adoption in accounts payable.

Now is the right time to take the next step forward and critically assess existing solutions. After all, not every software platform can keep pace with future business requirements.