SAP Controlling is part of the SAP Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and the module for classic controlling in companies. SAP CO offers a variety of functions that companies can use to manage their finances, costs and performance. It enables them to make financial decisions by giving them insight into their cost structure, income and expenditure. SAP CO also supports companies in planning and controlling their business processes. The module includes functions for planning various financial objects, controlling and tracking costs, reporting and analyzing financial data, results and investments.

SAP CO uses various controlling accounts to accurately record the company's financial and non-financial activities. These can be divided into cost centers, cost areas, cost objects, and cost elements to enable accurate tracking of the company's financial activities. They all help the company plan and control financial performance. The core functions of SAP Controlling include cost accounting, investment controlling, internal accounting, performance and cost management, strategic cost controlling, and project management and controlling. All of these areas can be further divided for more detailed control.