SAP systems need regular updating for bug fixes, legal changes, security and new functionality, and different needs are met by different mechanisms.
Three mechanisms
| Kind | Covers | Tool | Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAP Note | One specific correction | SNOTE | Small |
| Support package | A collection of ABAP corrections | SPAM | Medium |
| Kernel | The executables | OS commands | Medium |
| Enhancement package | New functionality | SAINT / SUM | Large |
| Release upgrade | The whole release | SUM | A project |
SAP Notes
Support packages
| Code | Scope |
|---|---|
| SPAU | Repository objects โ programs, screens |
| SPDD | Dictionary objects โ tables, data elements |
Kernel updates
Planning the rollout
| Step | System | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sandbox, if present | Rehearse and time the procedure |
| 2 | Development | Apply and adjust modifications |
| 3 | Quality assurance | Apply and test the business processes |
| 4 | Production | Apply within the planned outage |