Discovering SAP Cloud ALM

Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) is the process of managing the lifecycle of a software application, from inception to retirement. It encompasses planning, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance.

ALM activities include:

• Requirements management
• Design and development
• Testing and quality assurance
• Configuration management
• Release management
• Deployment and operations
• Collaboration and communication

ALM practices use tools and technologies - version-control and bug-tracking systems, project-management software, and automated build and deployment tools - to streamline and automate development and maintenance, improve productivity, and reduce errors.

SAP Cloud ALM is a valuable tool included in your SAP support subscription. It serves as the central hub for implementing and operating cloud and hybrid solutions. 

Implementation and operations often run in parallel. To help prevent unwanted impacts, SAP Cloud ALM supports activities related to both areas:

• Implementation: Design, build, test, and deploy.
• Operations: Detect, analyze, correct, and automate.

SAP Cloud ALM also streamlines service activities - preparation, delivery, sharing, and follow-up - making them more efficient and transparent.

The following image summarizes the activities SAP Cloud ALM supports for implementation, operations, and service.

As a user, partner, or SAP consultant, understanding SAP Cloud ALM and its connection to SAP Enterprise Support enables you to apply support resources more effectively. Let’s dive in!

SAP Cloud ALM for implementation, operations, and service relies on four core pillars:

• Methodology: Encompasses requirements gathering, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Clear goals, roles, and responsibilities ensure efficient execution.
• Operation automation: Focuses on automating repetitive and manual tasks to reduce human error, improve efficiency, and accelerate development.
• Teamwork: Emphasizes collaboration and communication among stakeholders. It ensures alignment with project objectives, enables knowledge sharing, and facilitates conflict resolution.
• Integration:  Involves connecting and coordinating ALM tools to enable smooth information flow, enhancing visibility, traceability, and overall control.

As we explore how SAP Cloud ALM supports implementation, operations, and service, here are some key facts and figures to keep in mind:

• Included with SAP Enterprise Support:. SAP Cloud ALM is part of your SAP Enterprise Support subscription. It offers a transparent licensing and cost structure, with SAP managing maintenance and operations. The initial offering includes 8 GB of memory and 8 GB of outbound data transfer per month - making it accessible and cost-effective for businesses of all sizes.
• Designed for Cloud and Hybrid Landscapes: Tailored for both cloud and hybrid customers, SAP Cloud ALM supports a wide range of SAP solutions—from cloud-based services to on-premise ABAP systems such as SAP S/4HANA, SAP Business Suite, and SAP Business Warehouse. It also enables PI/PO integration monitoring and supports selected non-SAP solutions.
• Cloud-Native and Rapidly Deployable: As a customer-managed SaaS solution, SAP Cloud ALM can be up and running in just 15 minutes. Daily integrated deliveries and biweekly feature releases ensure the platform stays current and continues to deliver the latest innovations.