From PL/SQL to Fusion - Why Developers Are Upskilling to Oracle Fusion Technical

In the fast-evolving world of enterprise technology, change is not just inevitable—it’s essential. For years, PL/SQL developers have been the backbone of Oracle-based systems, managing everything from data models to stored procedures. But with the shift toward cloud-based infrastructure and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions, Oracle’s new cloud suite—Oracle Fusion Applications—has changed the game.

As organizations migrate from on-premise Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) to Oracle Fusion Cloud, developers are finding it essential to upskill from traditional PL/SQL to Oracle Fusion Technical. This transition isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic move toward staying relevant in a cloud-first, API-driven, low-code world.

In this blog, we’ll explore why developers are making the shift, what Oracle Fusion Technical entails, and how you can build a successful technical career in the Fusion ecosystem.

The Shift: Why PL/SQL Alone Isn’t Enough Anymore

PL/SQL (Procedural Language for SQL) has long been a staple for Oracle developers, enabling data-driven application development within the Oracle RDBMS. But with the rise of cloud technologies, Oracle’s newer platforms rely on integration, APIs, and configuration over heavy database coding.

Key reasons PL/SQL-only roles are becoming limited:

  • Organizations are migrating from Oracle EBS to Oracle Fusion Cloud
  • Fusion discourages direct database access (no backend table updates allowed)
  • Emphasis has shifted to web services, APIs, and middleware
  • Oracle supports a modular, loosely coupled architecture in Fusion
  • Reporting and integration are now done through BI Publisher, OTBI, and OIC rather than backend scripts

What is Oracle Fusion Technical?

Oracle Fusion Technical refers to the suite of tools, technologies, and skills required to customize, integrate, report, and extend Oracle Fusion Cloud Applications. It replaces traditional backend development with cloud-compliant technical solutions.

Core components of Oracle Fusion Technical include:

  • BI Publisher (BIP) for reporting
  • OTBI (Oracle Transactional BI) for real-time analytics
  • Fast Formulas for business logic without code
  • Oracle Integration Cloud (OIC) for cloud integrations
  • REST & SOAP Web Services for secure data exchange
  • FBDI/ADFdi for bulk data import/export
  • Security and Role Customization
  • Page Customizations using Visual Builder and Page Composer

From PL/SQL to Oracle Fusion Technical: Skills Transition Guide

Here’s how traditional PL/SQL skills align with the new Fusion Technical roles:

PL/SQL Skill Fusion Technical Equivalent
Stored Procedures, Triggers Fast Formulas, Approval Rules
Data Extraction via Queries BI Publisher, OTBI
Data Migration Scripts FBDI Templates, HDL (HCM Data Loader)
Interfaces (Inbound/Outbound) Oracle Integration Cloud (OIC)
Forms/Reports ADF, Visual Builder, BIP
Workflow Development BPM, Approval Management, Task Configuration

This transformation doesn’t discard PL/SQL knowledge—it builds on it with cloud technologies. Oracle Fusion still uses backend concepts, but now leverages standardized and secure interfaces.

Why Developers Are Making the Shift

       1. High Demand, Low Supply of Oracle Fusion Technical Experts

Companies across sectors—healthcare, retail, finance, manufacturing—are rapidly adopting Fusion. This shift has led to a talent gap in the market. Developers with Fusion Technical skills are highly sought-after and command premium salaries.

  1. Better Career Growth and Global Opportunities

Oracle Fusion is used by multinational enterprises. Skilled technical consultants often find opportunities for onsite roles, freelancing, and remote consulting. Fusion-certified developers can work globally with better project exposure.

  1. Cloud-Native Skillsets Are Future-Proof

The IT job market is increasingly cloud-centric. Oracle Fusion Technical roles provide a blend of integration, automation, and analytics—making developers more versatile and future-ready compared to traditional PL/SQL-only roles.

  1. Greater Project Involvement

Fusion developers engage not just in backend development, but in design, implementation, integration, and reporting. You get to interact with clients, solution architects, and functional consultants, gaining holistic project experience.

  1. Attractive Compensation Packages

Fusion technical consultants, especially with OIC and BIP expertise, often earn 20–40% more than their PL/SQL counterparts. Freelance and contract-based opportunities also offer significant earning potential.

Learning Path: How to Transition from PL/SQL to Oracle Fusion Technical

Step 1: Understand the Fusion Ecosystem

Begin with learning the architecture of Oracle Fusion Cloud—modules, data flows, and user roles.

Step 2: Learn Reporting Tools

Start with BI Publisher and OTBI. These are essential for generating reports in HCM, Financials, and SCM modules.

Step 3: Master Data Integration

Study FBDI, HDL, and OIC. These help with data migration and real-time integrations.

Step 4: Explore Web Services

Gain hands-on experience with REST and SOAP services to interact with Fusion Applications securely.

Step 5: Get Certified

Oracle offers certifications in areas like Fusion Financials, HCM, and Integration Cloud. These validate your skills and improve your job prospects.

Tools and Technologies to Learn

Here’s a tech stack every Oracle Fusion Technical Consultant should be familiar with:

  • BI Publisher (XML Reports)
  • Oracle Transactional BI (OTBI)
  • FBDI and ADFdi (File-Based Data Import)
  • Oracle Integration Cloud (OIC)
  • SOAP/REST APIs
  • Oracle Visual Builder / ADF
  • HCM Data Loader (HDL)
  • Fast Formulas and Approval Workflows

Real-World Job Roles After Transition

Once trained, PL/SQL developers can apply for:

  • Oracle Fusion Technical Consultant
  • BI Publisher Developer
  • Oracle OIC Integration Developer
  • Fusion Middleware Consultant
  • Fusion Cloud Report Developer
  • Oracle HCM/SCM/Financials Technical Consultant

How to Choose a Training Institute

When selecting an institute for Oracle Fusion Technical training, look for:

  • Project-based learning with real-world examples
  • Expert instructors with Fusion implementation experience
  • Access to Fusion instance (cloud environment)
  • Support with certification preparation
  • Resume building and placement assistance

Institutes offering Oracle Fusion Technical Online Training with live classes and practice environments are ideal for working professionals.

FAQs: From PL/SQL to Oracle Fusion Technical

Q1. Do I need to completely stop using PL/SQL?

Answer: Not at all. PL/SQL is still relevant for understanding logic and query writing. However, in Fusion Cloud, you won’t have direct access to the database, so you’ll use BI Publisher and OTBI instead.

Q2. Is Oracle Fusion Technical difficult to learn?

Answer: It’s easier than it seems, especially for PL/SQL developers. Once you understand the Fusion structure and integration concepts, the learning curve flattens quickly.

Q3. Can I get a job with just Oracle Fusion Technical skills?

Answer: Yes. There is high demand for Oracle Fusion Technical professionals. Even knowing 2–3 key components like BIP, OIC, and FBDI can land you good job opportunities.

Q4. How long does it take to become proficient in Fusion Technical?

Answer: With regular study and hands-on practice, 2–3 months is enough to become job-ready in core Fusion Technical areas.

Q5. What certifications should I pursue?

Answer: Start with Oracle Fusion Cloud certification for your desired module—HCM, Financials, or SCM. Then explore certifications in Oracle Integration Cloud and BI Publisher.

Q6. Are Fusion Technical skills useful outside Oracle?

Answer: Yes. Concepts like integration, APIs, cloud security, and reporting tools are applicable across platforms, enhancing your career scope.

Conclusion: Don’t Get Left Behind

PL/SQL was great—but Fusion is the future. Developers who upskill to Oracle Fusion Technical are not just keeping pace—they’re leading the way in modern enterprise technology. With cloud-first architectures, hybrid integrations, and AI-powered insights, Fusion is transforming the role of developers.

By learning Oracle Fusion Technical, you ensure that your skills remain relevant, your career options stay broad, and your earning potential continues to grow.