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SAP Cloud ALM and SAP Focused Run in Comparison
The demands placed on application lifecycle management (ALM) in the SAP world are constantly increasing. Companies are looking for solutions that not only meet their current needs but also offer long-term security. Against the backdrop of the discontinuation of SAP Solution Manager 7.2 (mainstream maintenance until the end of 2027), the focus in the future will be on two tools in particular: SAP Cloud ALM and SAP Focused Run. But how do the two solutions differ, and which one is the right choice for your company?
The Most Important Differences at a Glance
| Tool | SAP Focused Run | SAP Cloud ALM |
|---|---|---|
When is SAP Cloud ALM Appropriate?
SAP Cloud ALM is the recommended solution for companies that rely on cloud or hybrid SAP landscapes. They benefit from rapid implementation, as no separate infrastructure is required because the application runs as SaaS on the SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP). In addition, SAP Cloud ALM can be controlled centrally, is easy to use, and is continuously being developed. For companies that want to run SAP S/4HANA hybrid with other SAP services on BTP, SAP Cloud ALM is a strategically connectable solution. This solution is ideal for fast-growing companies and SMEs in particular, as it grows with their requirements and always remains up to date.
Benefits of SAP Cloud ALM
- No installation and easy setup as a service on SAP BTP
- Centralized management and control in the cloud
- Automatic updates and continuous development by SAP
- Particularly suitable for cloud and hybrid scenarios
When is SAP Focused Run Recommended?
SAP Focused Run is specially designed for large and hybrid on-premises landscapes and service providers. The solution runs on your own infrastructure and offers maximum performance and scalability for system monitoring. The focus is clearly on monitoring, with comprehensive options for monitoring, alerting, and analysis, even in particularly demanding environments. If you value maximum system performance and complete control over your own data, SAP Focused Run is the right tool for you.
Benefits of SAP Focused Run
- Maximum performance for monitoring large on-premises landscapes
- Flexible integration of other (non-SAP) applications and systems
- Full data sovereignty and control through your own installation and operation (on-premises)
- Ideal for service providers and large companies with complex SAP landscapes
Decision Support: The Right Tool for Your Requirements
The choice between SAP Cloud ALM and SAP Focused Run depends largely on your system landscape and strategic goals. The following key questions will help you decide:
Are you pursuing a cloud-first or hybrid strategy?
Then SAP Cloud ALM is the right solution for you.
Do you operate a large and complex on-premises landscape?
In this case, SAP Focused Run is recommended.
Is your focus on growth and strategic compatibility in line with the SAP roadmap?
SAP Cloud ALM grows flexibly with your requirements.
Is high-performance, specialized monitoring essential?
Then SAP Focused Run provides the optimal basis.
Our Service: Consulting and Implementation of the Right ALM Solution
The introduction of a suitable ALM solution is a crucial step for the implementation and stable, secure operation of your SAP systems. We support you in the analysis, selection, and implementation, tailored to your individual requirements.
Conclusion
SAP Cloud ALM is the target platform recommended by SAP for ALM across implementation and operation – ideal for cloud-centric and hybrid landscapes. SAP Focused Run addresses high-volume, specialized operations monitoring and large enterprises as well as service providers. Functional parity between SAP Cloud ALM and Focused Run is not planned, so choose based on your scenario (e.g., operations monitoring in FRUN or end-to-end ALM in CALM). For customers with existing Solution Manager 7.2, SAP recommends starting and completing the transition before the end of 2027.