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Describing Configuration in SAP System Administration

Objectives

After completing this lesson, you will be able to:

Explain the need for individual customer configuration
Describe the components of configuration

Configuration

Overview

SAP is one of the world's largest software companies, operating in over 180 countries. With such a wide customer base, it is impossible to develop software that is specific for each customer. Instead, SAP develops general-purpose software that can then be configured for each customer.

SAP customers include big businesses, small businesses, government agencies, and non-profits, running in a wide variety of environments, regulatory frameworks, hardware and software setups, business scenarios, and so forth. The configuration process is a vital part of product implementation. Every new SAP customer must go through this process to customize the system to meet their enterprise needs. It is the responsibility of System Administrators to support this process.

Watch the following business scenario video.

Components of Configuration

The Implementation Process

This implementation is primarily the customer's responsibility, assisted by SAP Support and consultants, as well as third-party consultants. It may differ for different SAP applications.

For example, the SAP S/4HANA implementation process, called SAP Activate includes a framework for implementation. SAP activate consists of procedures, tools, Best Practices, examples, planned deliverables, and documentation. It requires a project team, skilled in project leadership, functional expertise, and technical competence. Depending on the application being implemented, it may be relatively quick or take considerable time.

Different methodologies may have different steps, different names, and different procedures.

Watch the following video for more information on the business scenario.

The following table details the various components of configuration.

Configuration Components

Component	Description
Architecture	Defining the landscape of the system, including optional components, customer-specific situations, and customized add-ons. Integration with other existing applications.
Technical Infrastructure	For an on-premise system, this may include purchasing and installing hardware, system software, and application software. In the cloud, this will consist of defining the environment and subscribing to necessary resources.
Data management	Adapting existing data structures to SAP definitions and terminology. Migrating data from existing systems to the new SAP application.
Application Functionality	Enabling application components for customer use. Defining master data to provide context for business transactions. Definition of application parameters for end user functionality.
Operations and Support	Creation of a help desk and incident management process. Establishment of routine operational procedures.
Validation of the Application Solution	Testing of the application solution. Transitioning to the new production system.

Some of these components are created by functional experts, others by technical experts. Some may require cooperation by both.

Watch the following video for more information on the business scenario.

Summary

Configuration is an essential part of tailoring SAP software to the needs of individual customers. Each system has its own specific configuration methods and parameters that must be used. The system administrator must understand how the software functions, as well as the needs of the organization. In the following lessons, you will discover a few configuration examples for the SAP BTP environment and SAP SuccessFactors.

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