Critical factor: Availability
Technical system copy for the upgrade
Unsorted unloading: - By default, R3load sorts table data by primary key before export. This requires time and resources in the source system. Under certain conditions, this sorting can be omitted.
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 system copy
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.
Another method of creating an SAP system copy is to use external tools such as Oracle RMAN or Microsoft SQL Server Backup. These tools allow you to create a complete copy of the database as well as a copy of the file system. However, it is important to note that special knowledge is required when using these tools to ensure that the backup is created correctly.
With "Shortcut for SAP Systems", a mature and yet very cost-effective product is available that offers useful functions for system copies. For example, SAP system users can be backed up and restored. Likewise, system-specific tables can be backed up before the system copy and restored after the system copy. And all this can also be automated.
Migration Monitor: With the new Migration Monitor different DDLORA*TPL templates can be assigned to the packages.
This means that the time required to create an SAP system copy - be it for providing a system copy for training purposes, be it for testing purposes or whatever - is drastically minimized.