Pre- and post-processing
Scenario with system copies for updating
There are now a number of tools that simplify refresh activities of non-production SAP systems. The tools are imported into SAP systems via transports and enable the data to be copied to be written in. The more precise the selection, the greater the potential savings in storage space and extraction time compared to client copy. As with the latter, the configuration is retained and ongoing development and test processes remain undisturbed.
The different types of SAP environments must meet different requirements. Training courses, for example, can only be held expediently if the working conditions largely correspond to those on the production system. Companies can simulate real-life situations for testing purposes on the basis of consistent and realistic data alone. Users should also test their own developments and modifications with consistent data that is close to production. A test environment that is as identical as possible to the production system is suitable for testing patches and release upgrades. In development and training systems in particular, it is fundamentally important to anonymize sensitive data in order to comply with data protection rules.
Detailed checks for critical order contents
When executing a system copy, all tables, processes, databases, etc. are taken into account when copying. Logical system names must also be converted (using the BDLS trasaction code). The process of a system copy usually does not change. If no structural changes have been made to the SAP systems involved, the process is even 100% identical. Due to the very high repeatability of the nevertheless complex process, it is advisable to automate it to a large extent.
While homogeneous SAP system copy expects identical combinations of operating/database systems on the source and target systems, there is also a requirement for different combinations of operating/database systems on the source and target systems in the project environment (eg, during migrations). This is referred to as a "heterogeneous SAP system copy". Technically, it is quite possible to build up a degree of automation here as well, but officially certified consultants ("migration consultants") are required to perform the heterogeneous system copy.
The tool "Shortcut for SAP Systems" is excellently suited to complete an SAP system copy easier and faster.
The enormous resource requirements that arise during a refresh of the SAP QA system really cry out for an optimizing software tool.
The IT team must regularly copy the SAP productive environment in order to be able to carry out testing and development work on the "real" system without manipulating the productive systems.