The three-layer test strategy
- Functional testing: business scenario-based testing — full end-to-end processes (procure to pay, order to cash, record to report) from a business-user perspective. Test cases derived from Fit-to-Standard workshop decisions; every process deviation becomes a test case.
- Regression testing: automated regression suite using Tricentis Tosca (SAP-certified, component-based, resilient to UI change) or SAP Cloud ALM Test Automation (CBTA). Once built, runs in hours not weeks.
- Performance and load testing: for high-volume SAP environments — high AP invoice throughput, large MRP/depreciation batch runs, large concurrent user loads — using JMeter or Gatling at realistic production volumes. Performance issues found at load test are addressable; found at go-live, they are crises.
Migration-specific testing
For each migration object (open POs, open AP items, fixed assets, customer and vendor master), IOTEK’s migration testing covers: record count reconciliation (every source record accounted for in target), value reconciliation (financial balances match ECC to S/4HANA to the cent), open item matching, and interface testing (every external system tested end-to-end with production-representative data).
The cutover dress rehearsal
IOTEK runs minimum two dress rehearsals before go-live. The first establishes a realistic cutover timeline; the second validates that issues from the first are resolved and the timeline fits the cutover window. Go-live day is then execution of a rehearsed, proven plan. Go-live gate criteria: zero P1 open defects, regression suite green, ZATCA integration tested with production credentials (GCC clients), all interfaces signed off, data reconciliation signed off by the finance team.
The most expensive SAP go-live problems are the ones discovered at 2am during the cutover weekend. Quality Engineering is the investment that prevents them.