Test Management in Large and Complex SAP Projects

The introduction and adaptation of SAP systems is a complex process that often involves a variety of departments, divisions and external partners. A central component of the success of such projects is test management, which ensures that all processes, interfaces and functions work as intended. In a large and complex SAP project, test management is not just a matter of technical verification, but also a key to smooth implementation. A blog post cannot of course illuminate all critical factors, yet this post offers a comprehensive overview of the essential aspects to consider in test management.

1. Selecting the Right Resources: Expertise and Soft Skills of the Test Manager

One of the most important factors for the success of test management is selecting the right resources. An SAP test manager must have a combination of technical expertise, process understanding and strong soft skills to successfully lead the project.

• Technical Expertise: The test manager should have a deep understanding of the SAP landscape, relevant modules and associated test tools. This includes not just basic knowledge of the system, but also experience in conducting tests in various phases of a project.
• Process Understanding: A test manager must understand the business processes represented in the SAP system. Only then can they ensure that test cases cover relevant scenarios and focus is on critical processes.
• Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, soft skills are also very important. The test manager must be able to communicate with different stakeholders, proactively address problems and motivate the team. Especially in stressful phases, such as shortly before go-live, it is essential to remain calm and moderate conflicts.
• Team Strength: Another important consideration is whether a single test manager is sufficient or whether support is necessary. In particularly critical phases of the project, such as during final test runs or the go-live phase, it may be necessary to strengthen the test management team to handle daily business.

2. The Test Concept: A Critical Success Factor from the Start

A well-thought-out test concept is the foundation for successful test management. Ideally, it should be designed in the initial phase of the project to ensure all relevant aspects are covered. The most important contents of a test concept include:

• Test Case Design: How are test cases developed? Test cases should be created based on defined business processes, requirements and system functions. It is important to cover not only standard processes but also exception scenarios.
• Test Case Source: Where do test cases come from? This can be from process documentation, requirements or existing test catalogs. It is important to work closely with subject matter experts to ensure tests represent relevant business processes.
• Roles and Responsibilities: Who is responsible for which tests? The test concept should clearly define who is responsible for creating, executing and monitoring tests.
• Tool Selection: Which tools are used for test management? The decision on the right test tools (e.g., SAP Solution Manager, Tricentis Tosca) is crucial. Tools must meet project requirements and enable efficient test execution.
• Defect Management Process: How are errors handled? The defect process describes handling of errors, from capture through prioritization to resolution.
• Monitoring in Preparation and Execution Phase: Constant monitoring is essential to ensure tests are conducted properly and errors are detected and fixed in time.

3. Tasks of the Test Manager in an SAP Project

The test manager takes on a variety of tasks that go beyond pure coordination of test activities. Some of the central tasks include:

• Planning and Coordination of Tests: The test manager is responsible for creating the test plan, which covers the entire test process – from test preparation through execution to follow-up.
• Definition of Test Strategy: In consultation with project participants, the test manager develops a strategy that forms the framework for all test activities.
• Monitoring Test Progress: The test manager ensures tests proceed according to plan and monitors how many test cases are successfully completed and how many are still open.
• Communication with Stakeholders: A central task is regular coordination with stakeholders and reporting. The test manager must ensure all relevant information is passed on to the right people at the right time.
• Management of Defect Process: The test manager is responsible for handling defects, i.e., identified errors. This includes prioritization, forwarding to the right teams and tracking resolution.

4. The Importance of Communication and Early Involvement of the Test Manager

One of the most important success factors for successful test management is the communication ability of the test manager. In a large SAP project, there are numerous interfaces between different departments, teams and external service providers. The test manager must ensure communication runs smoothly and all involved have the same information available.

Early Involvement: The test manager should be involved in the project as early as possible, ideally already in the planning phase. This ensures the test concept is considered from the start and the test strategy is aligned with overall project goals.

5. Don't Underestimate Test Effort in Large SAP Projects

A common mistake in large SAP projects is underestimating test effort. Often it is assumed that tests can be conducted quickly, especially when automated tests are used. In reality, however, test effort is considerable and should be planned accordingly in the project plan.

• Complexity of Processes: SAP systems are often highly complex, and business processes include numerous dependencies and interfaces. This means tests must be carefully planned and executed to ensure all relevant scenarios are covered.
• Time Planning: The test period should be generously planned to have buffers for unexpected delays, defects and test repetitions. It is also important to plan enough time for test preparation, as this is often a laborious task.

6. The Importance of Constant Monitoring

Successful test management requires constant monitoring. This means test progress must be continuously monitored and reports regularly created. Only then can it be ensured that all involved are informed about the status of tests and any problems are detected and fixed in time.

7. Critical Success Factors: Process Documentation, Cutover and Go-Live Validation

In addition to conducting the tests themselves, there are other critical success factors in test management:

• Process Documentation: Documentation of business processes and test cases is crucial to ensure tests can be conducted efficiently. Good documentation also facilitates tracking of errors and later analysis. The test manager should be involved early here to ensure business teams can derive test cases from process documentation.
• Cutover Planning: The test manager also plays a central role in planning and executing the cutover process, i.e., the transition from the old to the new system landscape. During test cycles, the cutover must also be performed the first few times and further optimized.
• Go-Live Validation: After go-live, processes in the new system must be validated to ensure everything works as planned. Here too the test manager is needed to ensure all relevant tests are conducted and documented, but above all time is a critical factor here.

8. Training for Testers

Also not to be underestimated is training of testers. Especially in large projects where various teams are involved, it must be ensured that all testers are familiar with test tools, test cases and also the new system. Targeted training at the beginning of the test period can help avoid errors and increase test efficiency.

Conclusion

Test management in large and complex SAP projects is a challenging and multifaceted task. From selecting the right resources through creating a comprehensive test concept to constantly monitoring test progress – there are numerous factors that determine the success or failure of a project.

A well-qualified test manager is crucial to ensure the project runs smoothly and tests are conducted efficiently. If your company needs support in test management, I am happy to assist you with my experience and expertise to successfully accompany your SAP project and ensure all relevant test activities are professionally implemented.