How do I use Solution Manager effectively, for implementations?

[Former Member]

I have recently become more involved in SAP projects.  We have several rollouts planned over the next few years, but we are not maximizing our use of Solution Manager.  What functionality/features and work centers do I need (in addition to Implementation/Upgrade) in order to use Solution Manager effectively for SAP rollouts?

I know that I can't just start using the Implementation/Upgrade work center and expect to have everything there.  I am trying to understand the dependencies between the parts and pieces that will help lead to an effective solution.  For example, if I need to have roadmaps and blueprints in place to use the Implementation/Upgrade work center effectively, what to I need to have in place, or do, to use roadmaps and blueprints?  I would like to follow the trail back to the beginning (Initial Preparation), then work my way forward through using ASAP and Solution Manager so that I can present a case to my leadership for the changes we need to make to improve our processes.  Hopefully this makes sense.

Thank you for your input.

Aaron

[Former Member]

Hi Aaron

In a nutshell, future is SOLUTION Manager for SAP systems, Reality is more than SAP. Let me explain why, since it is widely covered entire SAP environment it requires more buyin than implementation. I don't know your capacity at work (don't take me wrong i am talking about Hierarchy) if you are technical person first get blessing from #1 of your IT dept, the reason i am saying this certain modules like ChARM connects across various functions. Here you need to play lot of political games, flips and turns it is fun activity.

On the other hand it is quite straight forward for technical (as usual) as long as your landscape clean and connected to solution manager (Managed System Config) you can start enabling dashboards, monitoring EWAs etc.

once you done with this, you are ready to wear "CAPE" coz you are super hero....

Good luck, stay on SCN there are lots of SOLMAN gurus in this group willing to help as fellow professional.

oh by the way, post more details of your landscape, I suggest start reading RKTs http://service.sap.com/rkt you need S number for this.

-giri