Cloning and Copying HCM data – How to Generate Test Data Easily
October 17, 2022 | Reading time: Approx. 5 Minuten
Specialized Sales Human Experience Manager at FIS
SAP HCM is a fully developed HRM system: why would optimizations be needed? Various examples in this article show how the SAP HCM system can be further optimized by simple tools for copying and cloning.
Basically, the copying of data for test purposes aims at creating exact copies (as far as possible) of the original data.
Ideally, a 100 % true copy should be created for generating test data.
However, to also comply with the data protection directive, it is important to anonymize or pseudonymize master and transaction data.
Why are we talking about “cloning” or “clones” when copying data?
Some tools use the “clone” term for copying, which is why many companies use it in their ordinary language. Often, they also talk about “cloning HR data”, “cloning program” or “clone”.
Why do users clone data into upstream systems at all?
Let’s have a look at the structure of a classical HCM system:
At first, all required data is available in the production system only. However, this data is also particularly required for developments and tests in upstream systems. It is important to check the development adjustments as quickly as possible against, for instance, unconsidered side effects using current test scenarios.
If no additional tool is used for setting up test datasets in upstream systems, a “client copy” can be used alternatively. As this process is quite complicated, a client copy is usually executed once a year only and is therefore not suitable for testing with current data.
Using an SAP optimization for copying is the best solution for SAP HCM users if they wish to extend the SAP standard version in the best possible way and always work with current test data.
Such a tool for copying and cloning should be used for every SAP HCM system. Copying tools or cloning programs offer different solution approaches:
But which copying/cloning tool is suitable for whom?
Basically, a consultant solution is sufficient for smaller companies, particularly if little adjustment efforts are required and the need for testing is low. In all other cases, a tool should be used that is regularly maintained and, therefore, kept up to date.
It is even more important for international companies with high pressure for changes to use one of the more comprehensive tools. In this way, software-based comparisons can also be made in addition to cloning and copying.
If none of these cloning solutions or, even better, copying tools is used, the test processes will often be very complex and, as a consequence, neglected. The implementation efforts of a tool, however, are very small, in particular in relation to the benefit.
Using the digital change now
In the HR environment, companies are facing different challenges, such as forced digitization or ad hoc adjustments. This was evident recently, for instance, when short-time work was implemented at short notice, which had not been predictable.
But also long-term requirements, such as the implementation of the EU General Data Protection Regulation as well as social and statutory changes, force companies to constantly evolve. Therefore, it is of particular importance today that HR processes and procedures are regularly checked, optimized and digitized.
With SAP HCM, companies can rely on a mature and proven HR system that can even be enhanced by optimizations. Some of them are almost indispensable for the efficient work in SAP HCM.
This includes a solution for cloning or copying employee data, or even better a copying and comparison tool. It is also important to constantly check the existing corporate processes: “Are our quality standards sufficient and are they complied with?”, “Do the test scenarios still fit?”, …
Human Resources departments in particular are subject to constant changes. This is why HR departments should be provided with appropriate tools to be able to always respond easily and quickly.
Questions about this topic? Our team will be happy to assist you personally.
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