I recently completed an internship in the software engineering department of SAP, a large international software manufacturer, where I had the opportunity to work as a software engineer and project manager. Looking back on my experience, I am proud of the exceptional performance I was able to achieve in both of these roles and the great success I had in leading a team of 12 developers.
Leading a Complex Project: Developing Mobile BI Infrastructure at SAP
One of the main responsibilities of my internship was to lead the development of a mobile BI infrastructure. This was a complex and challenging project, but I was able to effectively manage it by using my project management skills to ensure that everything was completed on time and within budget. I was also able to contribute to the development of the infrastructure by using my software development skills to create high-quality code.
Collaborative and Inclusive Work Environment at SAP
One of the things that I enjoyed most about my internship was the opportunity to work with such a diverse group of developers. Each person brought their own unique skills and perspectives to the table, which made the experience all the more enriching. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, I was able to create a positive team dynamic that made it easier for everyone to work together effectively.
Top Learnings in Software Project Management
These are some of my top learnings in software project management:
- Setting clear goals and objectives: It is important to have a clear understanding of what the project aims to achieve, as well as specific goals and objectives that need to be met. This will help to guide the project and ensure that it stays on track.
- Managing resources: A software project manager must be able to effectively allocate and manage resources, including budget, staff, and equipment, to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.
- Communication: Effective communication is crucial in software project management. The project manager must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with team members, stakeholders, and other stakeholders to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that any issues or concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
- Risk management: It is important to anticipate and mitigate potential risks to the project, as well as have contingency plans in place in case something does go wrong.
- Adaptability: A successful software project manager must be able to adapt to changes in the project and the industry, and be able to pivot as needed to ensure the project’s success.
- Leadership: A software project manager must be able to effectively lead and motivate the team to ensure that everyone is working towards the common goal.
- Attention to detail: A software project manager must have strong attention to detail to ensure that all aspects of the project are properly planned and executed.
- Time management: Managing a project requires effective time management skills to ensure that tasks are completed on schedule and that the project stays on track.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Internship at SAP
In conclusion, my internship at SAP was a valuable and rewarding experience that has helped me to develop my skills in software development and project management. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a talented team and am confident that the skills and knowledge I gained during my time at SAP will be invaluable as I pursue a career in the software industry.
Want to know more about my journey in the software industry? Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn for more insights.
This blog post is an excerpt from the Personal Development section of my internship report written for my university.
Am Sonntag um 8:00 morgens ging es mit dem Bus von Karlsruhe aus gen Süden. Am Vormittag passierten wir Basel. Leider war der Sankt-Gotthard-Pass gesperrt. So verlief unsere Reiseroute durch den weit weniger spektakulären Gotthard-Tunnel.
Auf dem Weg blieb noch Zeit für italienischen Cappuccino. Weiter im Westen erreichten wir schließlich gegen 21:00 unser Hotel in Nice.
Auf dem hügeligen Areal sind 1.300 Unternehmen ansässig. Eines dieser Unternehmen, ILOG, besuchten wir am Nachmittag.
Ein Projekt kommt selten allein. So gesellt sich zum noch andauernden 
