SAP system update and database update
Job logic instead of customizing
Typically, the "homogeneous SAP system copy" process involves a large number of manual activities. A certain skill level is required for this, which leads to the fact that usually the employees of the SAP Basis department or external service providers realize the system copy. Depending on the structure and size of the systems, this process can take anywhere from hours to several days. In addition to making the target systems unavailable to operations and project teams, system and landscape copies also block SAP Basis administrators. Other challenges include the varying duration and quality (completeness) of the results depending on the processor, time dependency on the employees performing the work, etc..
To ensure that SAP solutions are nevertheless used optimally, decision-makers are well advised to regularly subject IT landscapes and applications to intensive testing. This helps to avoid potential errors and risks during operation, which can quickly lead to immense costs. But providing test data can also prove to be a challenge. Given the increased use of Big Data, storage space and resulting costs are constantly rising. In addition, testing is complicated by the growing complexity of applications and IT architecture. It can therefore be profitable for companies to invest in professional test data management, which offers decisive advantages.
On-premises: all involved source/target systems in the company's own data centers
SAP SE is a software company that uses the proprietary programming language ABAP. SAP® landscapes include not only production but also Quality Assurance (QA) systems as well as test and other staging systems. For appropriate and consistent testing and acceptance of changes in programs and processes, SAP recommends the "homogeneous system copy" approach to provide non-production systems with up-to-date data.
For some time now, SAP customers have been supported in system copying by very powerful automation tools that can be used as needed. In addition to this area of activity, additional automation tools are also available, for example up to the creation of sandboxes, which provide valuable services.
SAP system copy is made much easier by the "Shortcut for SAP Systems" application.
Outdated data can affect the validity of change transport tests, which can lead to errors and failures in the production system.
But providing test data can also prove to be a challenge.