SAP’s Jan Gilg Explains Why Trust Will Determine the Future of Enterprise AI

In this Cloud Wars Special report, Bob Evans speaks with Jan Gilg about how AI is reshaping enterprise software and why the next phase of innovation will depend on trust, governance, business outcomes, and clean data. Gilg explains how SAP is positioning its Autonomous Suite as a foundation for the autonomous enterprise, combining ERP, business processes, and AI agents. Trust Powers Enterprise AI The Big Themes: Autonomous Enterprise Vision: Jan Gilg said Sapphire generated strong enthusiasm because customers finally heard a clear vision for enterprise AI. Rather than focusing solely on AI models or isolated features, SAP presented an integrated strategy built around the Autonomous Suite and Business AI. While consumer AI has dramatically improved personal productivity, enterprise leaders need AI that can help make critical business decisions and automate end-to-end processes. SAP's message resonated because it connected AI directly to business execution, positioning enterprise systems as the foundation for autonomous operations rather than treating AI as a standalone technology layer. AI Economics Matter: Another major topic was the cost of AI. Gilg noted that enterprises are becoming increasingly focused on transparency, consumption, and measurable outcomes. As AI usage expands, costs can grow rapidly, creating new concerns for business leaders. Customers want detailed visibility into which agents are being used, how resources are consumed, and whether the resulting business value justifies the expense. Gilg compared this need for transparency to a detailed telephone bill. Data Quality Determines Success: The interview concluded with examples demonstrating that AI success depends heavily on modernized systems and clean data. Gilg spoke of initiatives involving retailers such as H&M, where AI can improve customer experiences, fulfillment, and revenue generation. He also referenced work with Bayer and discussed ExxonMobil’s modernization journey. These examples reinforced a key point: AI delivers the greatest value when built on standardized processes, strong master data, and simplified architectures. The Big Quote: “You have to lead with value. Yes, technology is exciting, but it does nothing if the customer doesn't see the outcome." More from Jan Gilg and SAP: Follow Jan Gilg on LinkedIn or learn more about Autonomous Suite. Visit Cloud Wars for more.