What is our primary use case?
Our primary use of Avantra revolves around two main aspects. Firstly, we rely on Avantra to monitor our complete SAP landscape. Additionally, we have integrated Avantra with ServiceNow, which allows us to create incidents and manage SAP-related issues using ServiceNow incidents. This is one of our use cases. The second use case entails using Avantra extensively for refreshing our SAP systems. We refresh all six SAP systems on a monthly basis using Avantra.
What is most valuable?
The most valuable feature of Avantra is automation. The reduction of manual work and having them automated is one of the top reasons why I would use it.
What needs improvement?
We are currently exploring automation options for various areas, and Avantra should consider implementing automation for change request management, an area they have not yet ventured into. While Avantra is currently excelling in monitoring and system refreshes, there is scope for improvement in automating change request management. In addition to primarily focusing on SAP, Avantra currently performs kernel patches which are core SAP patches. However, exploring more into OS patching could be another potential area for Avantra to expand its automation capabilities.
Looking ahead to future releases, I would like to see more advanced automation features. As a long-term goal, I am considering the possibility of automating SAP system upgrades. While this would not be an easy feat, advancements in technology may make it feasible in the future. Overall, a key feature I hope to see in future releases is increased automation capabilities.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using Avantra for approximately three years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
Regarding monitoring, the solution is stable with minimal complaints. However, in terms of system refresh, there are ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency and workflow. The 23.1 version is said to introduce improved workflows and better handling of data export/import compared to the previous version. While there are changes taking place, there is still no solid platform for a refresh, as they are continuously working on improving it. The solution remains stable for monitoring purposes.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Avantra is scalable. You are able to add SAP systems and instances. It can be done easily.
My team, consisting of about seven members, utilizes Avantra primarily for administrative purposes. However, the entire IT team, including non-technical members, utilizes the dashboard generated by Avantra to monitor the status and health of the system.
How are customer service and support?
We have been in contact with support when we are doing our monthly refreshes. This is due to the solution having some stability issues. However, we have not used the support for monitoring.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup of Avantra was relatively easy when we installed it three years ago. However, fine-tuning was necessary due to the customized nature of our landscape. Each system, such as SAP BW, ECC, and EWM, required specific customization to optimize its performance. This ongoing process involves adjusting thresholds and settings to continuously improve system performance. It is not a one-time setup where we can forget about it; instead, we must continuously work on it to ensure that our system runs at its best.
What was our ROI?
We have received a return on investment using Avantra.
What other advice do I have?
Three factors primarily drove our decision to use Avantra. Firstly, its automation capabilities. Secondly, its ease of implementation. And lastly, its affordability, which fits within our budget constraints.
I would highly recommend using this tool to others as it is user-friendly and has undergone significant improvements. However, it is important to note that every system is unique, so some level of customization is necessary. It is not a simple plug-and-play solution, but with some fine-tuning and customization, it can be stabilized and put on autopilot. It does require some initial work, but it is manageable.
I rate Avantra an eight out of ten.
I gave a high rating to this solution because it is easy to implement and requires minimal work even when upgrading. Moreover, the solution promotes automation, which is crucial for saving time and money, as well as increasing efficiency. Our aim is not to replace any team members, but rather to reduce dependency on them for monitoring the system. Automating the monitoring and ticketing system would be ideal. Additionally, our work involves a lot of repetitive tasks, such as kernel upgrades and system refreshes, which could easily be scripted and automated, reducing our workload on weekends. While the solution is impressive, there is still room for improvement.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Private Cloud
If public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud, which cloud provider do you use?
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Disclosure: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.