Difference between implementation, support & upgradation projects and the role of ABAPer in each of them

By Sunitha

SAP Implementation:

SAP Implementation is the whole of processes that defines a complete method to
implement SAP software in an organization. It is based on best practices and case studies from various literature sources and presents a collection of processes and products that make up a complete implementation method to allow any organization to plan and execute the implementation of SAP (ERP) software. The SAP implementation process is made up out of four main phases, i.e. the project preparation where a vision of the future-state of the SAP solution is being created, a sizing and blueprinting phase where the solution stack is created and training is being performed, a functional development phase and finally a final preparation phase, when the last tests are being performed before the actual go live.

ABAP Developer Role is to prepare the Technical Specification (based on a Functional Specification given by a Functional Consultant), build the code, Review the code and finally to prepare the Unit Test Cases. Sometimes ABAPer may be asked to do a technical research for an optimal solution.

SAP Support:

After a go live, the application needs a maintenance/support to resolve the issues/tickets raised by the users when using the application. Ticket is like a request for changes/bug fixing or a request for a new ABAP Developer Role includes bug fixing/change the existing code due to new requirements/build a new code etc.

SAP Upgrade:

SAP Upgrade is nothing but upgrading the software with a superior version which has got more advantages when compared to the earlier version.

ABAP Developer Role is to go through transactions SPAU/SPDD to compare the old and new version of the change and finally need to activate the relevant one. Some times might need to work on SAP notes too.