SAP Cloud Transport Management

Introduction

I have experimented a bit with SAP Cloud Transport Management.

The Big Picture

As usual on SAP BTP you have to use a service from the service marketplace to use the SAP Cloud Transport Management. You also have to create a solution landscape on the SAP BTP. 

I designed it as follows:

Setting up an ABAP Environment on SAP BTP

Overview

We will set up the ABAP Environment on SAP BTP by using the Cloud Foundry runtime environment.

1. Add a Service Plan

Go to your Subaccount.

Add an new Service Plan and search for "ABAP environment".

Select all 3 options for the available plans.

Upload and modify OpenXML documents via RAP App in SAP BTP ABAP Environment

Introduction

In this blog post, I would like to share some insights for generating OpenXML documents by use of the RESTful Application Programming Model with Cloud-released development objects. With this app, you will be able to upload .docx templates and fill them with information from you CDS view (could be used for generating invoices, business documents and so on...).

Prerequisite

• SAP BTP ABAP environment or an S/4 system to your disposal.  
• Eclipse IDE installed on your local machine with the ABAP Development Tools.

Introducing new type of Data Access Control "Operator and Value" for SAP Datasphere

Row-level security in SAP Datasphere is implemented via Data Access Controls (DACs) to allow a more granular assignment of authorisations and access to data on dedicated views within a Space.

In general DACs are objects which can be created in SAP Datasphere as objects in their own right which control access to data for each user within a Space. Hence, an integral part of a DAC is a list of values a user is allowed to see for a dimension (e.g. 'Sales Units') a user is allowed to see. This list can be maintained  in a local table, a view or even a table function. Each value a user is allowed to see must be represented by one record in this list of authorised values.

Extract blob data (PDF) from CAPM using python library of Document information extraction service

Introduction:

Document Information Extraction helps you to process large amounts of business documents that have content in headers and tables. You can use the extracted information, for example, to automatically process payables, invoices, or payment notes while making sure that invoices and payables match. After you upload a document file to the service, it returns the extraction results from header fields and line items. 

Use case:

1. Extract the documents (invoice detail) from an application where it is maintained as an attachment, and it is stored as a blob object in HANA database tables. 

2. Before the data is imported into a HANA database, transform the information that was retrieved from the blob object into a format that can be utilized for further analysis. 

Be a Cockroach: A Simple Guide to AI and SAP Full-Stack Development - Part II

Disclaimer: There are various methods to develop the SAP RAP program, but I've opted for a basic approach to comprehend table custom concepts and explore the fundamentals from a beginner's perspective. If you're already proficient in advanced techniques, feel free to move on and explore other content.

I) Introduction:

If you're new to this blog series, I recommend starting with PART-1 by clicking the link provided. This post is PART-2, so starting with PART-1 will help you grasp the topic better, especially since it uses story-based learning.

Be a Cockroach: A Simple Guide to AI and SAP Full-Stack Development - Part I

Disclaimer: This blog delves into SAP full-stack development, incorporating SAP RAP for both front-end and back-end functionalities, Integration Suite for middleware tasks, TensorFlow for AI/ML modeling, and crafting a personalized system dashboard. Geared towards simplifying complex business systems through engaging stories, it's for those wanting to understand these concepts. If you're already well-versed, feel free to just stop here and explore other content.

I) Introduction (Story):

Most people came here to see what he has to say about cockroaches and their connection to SAP development. Some might be curious to learn about it. Few of you could feel grossed out and think cockroaches are yucky and ugly! But after reading this section, I hope you'll respect these special creatures called “COCKROACH”.

RDG eases the process of data replication through SOA services with custom enhancements.

Syniti RDG is an SAP-endorsed application on the Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) to facilitate MDG implementation with intuitive UI and process automation.

RDG eases the process of data replication by setting data replication configuration steps like data replication model, create and maintain business systems and can map standard and customized attributes with different mapping transformations. This simplifies the process onto one easy to navigate screen. RDG replication via IDoc or via services (WSDL and SOA) are available and are dependent on the outbound implementation selected. Custom enhancements with replication of data can also be created in SOA proxy structure depending on business requirements.

BODS migration

In this blog, I have detailed the steps taken for SAP BODS application migration from existing on premises to HANA database including the DR Testing Setup.

The Purpose of this blog is to provide a guidance path for migration of the BODS Application to HANA.

Existing Landscape Design:

1. The IPS and DS version remain the same as on premises.

Working with Business Application Studio with Azure Git and Deploy application in On-Premise system

Azure Git with BAS

Preparing Git for a new Project

◉ Open Azure

SAP BTP, ABAP in the Cloud Custom Code Transformation using abapGit and gCTS

abapGit and gCTS (Git-enabled Change and Transport System)

◉ The basic idea behind abapGit is to exchange source code between any ABAP systems using a Gitbased repository.

How to improve the ADT Class Runner with additional Features

What is a Class Runner?

A class runner is a great tool to test code snippets and run code directly from ADT. You can even write a simple log to the console in Eclipse.

What can be improved?

When using multiple systems and complex projects I got annoyed at some point in time, that I don't know from which system the last log was, when it was written by which runner and if the last execution has finished or failed maybe.

Usage of Custom Destination Service in BTP, ABAP Environment

The regular Way

In BTP you configure the destination on subaccount level, here you see how to do so:

How to develop Customer creation Application in SAP Build Apps with OData service

Objective: -

Implementing SAP OData URI to SAP Build and Creating Customers in SAP BUILD which can replicate to SAP System

Business Scenario: -

How to create Customers using SAP Build Apps and OData Service.

Prerequisites: -

-> You Have an SAP BTP account or trial account.

-> Inside the BTP account, go to Instances and Subscriptions and create an instance of SAP Build Apps

-> Now go to Security -> Users Tab and assign Role to the user for SAP BUILD Apps

Declaring Dynamic UI5 Fields in SAP Build Process Automation

While automating SAP Fiori applications, one might come across some dynamic UI5 elements such as mentioned in the snapshot below.

In most cases, recorder may not be able to uniquely identify the elements, thus terminating the automation where it may not find the suitable elements.

Exploring SAP BTP with Trial Accounts and Free Tiers

Introduction: SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) is a powerful and versatile platform that empowers businesses and developers to build, extend, and run applications in the cloud. It helps us explore its capabilities, SAP is offering a variety of options, including Trial Accounts and Free Tier offerings.

Trial Account or Free Tier Offering: When to Use Which? Before diving into SAP BTP, we must determine which free offering suits our requirements best. SAP provides two primary options: Pay-As-You-Go or CPEA accounts with free tier service plans and Trial Accounts. Here's when to consider each option:

1. Pay-As-You-Go or CPEA accounts with free tier service plans:

◉ These accounts are open to customers, partners, and individual developers.

◉ They allow us to experiment with SAP BTP without time limitations.

◉ We can test our scenarios and have the option to upgrade to paid service plans.

◉ They support long-term data storage and project migration to production.

◉ Access to the community, including tutorials and technical resources, is available.

◉ Note that only community support is available for free tier service plans, and SLAs do not apply for these plans.

◉ Some services may not support upgrading from a free tier to a paid service plan.

2. Trial Accounts:

◉ A SAP BTP trial account provides a 90-day free trial period.

◉ It is intended for personal exploration and non-productive testing only.

◉ Trial accounts should not be used for production or team development.

◉ Everyone can access this option, and you can self-register for a trial account.

◉ Once the 90-day period ends, the trial account is automatically deleted.

Free Tier and Always Free Tags: In the SAP Discovery Center service catalogue, some services are tagged as "Free Tier," indicating that they offer a free tier service plan. Others are labelled "Always Free," which means these services come without additional charges as they are included in the overall SAP BTP contract. We can use the filter function in the SAP Discovery Center to find services that offer Free Tiers and Always Free plans. Keep in mind that Always Free service plans may not be available in all regions or for all providers.

Trial Lifecycle: When we opt for a SAP BTP trial account, here's what we can expect in terms of its lifecycle:

1. Familiarization and Exploration:

◉ Get to know the platform's scope and explore the Starter Scenarios.

◉ Utilize the Tutorial Navigator for guidance and insights.

2. Account Extension:

◉ The 90-day trial period is divided into intervals.

◉ Regularly signing in to the trial account extends the intervals to 30 days or until the 90-day trial period is completed.

◉ We can manually extend our trial account interval by clicking "Extend Trial Account."

3. Account Suspension:

◉ If we don't sign in for 30 days or more, the account will be suspended, and we won't be able to use applications or services.

◉ To unsuspend the trial account, click "Extend Trial Account" and use the account again, provided there are still days left in your 90-day trial period.

4. Account Deletion:

◉ After 90 days, the trial account is automatically deleted.

◉ If we wish to continue using SAP BTP, then we must set up a new account.

Trial Scope: A SAP BTP trial account offers access to essential platform functionality, including the following features:

◉ Cloud management tools (Feature Set B)

◉ Availability in various regions

◉ Directory creation

◉ Use of productive and beta services

◉ Management of security users through role collections

◉ 4 GB of memory for applications

◉ 8 GB of instance memory

◉ 10 total routes and 40 total services

◉ Configuration of 2 on-premise systems with the Cloud connector

◉ No service level agreement (SLA) regarding platform availability

◉ Use of HDI containers in a shared SAP HANA database (only available on cf-us10)

◉ Automatic daily application stops for cleanup purposes, requiring manual restart when needed

Conclusion: Even though the trial accounts are free, the limited lifespan is not helpful when building demos or PoCs where you don't want to run the risk of losing your work just because you haven't logged in for a while, which is why we at SoftwareOne chose to invest some money in a 'proper' paid-for environment. Free trial environments remain useful for things which are disruptive or throw-away, such as experimenting with setting up single sign-on (which has the potential to disrupt other users), or training/education courses which you don't need to keep after the completion of the course.

Exploring SAP Business Technology Platform is now more accessible than ever with Trial Accounts and Free Tier offerings. Determine your requirements, select the right option, and embark on your SAP BTP journey to innovate, develop, and transform your business. Whether you're an individual developer, a partner, or part of a larger organization, SAP BTP has a solution for your specific needs. Sign up, explore, and unleash the potential of this powerful platform.

SAP BTP Environments – Cloud Foundry Vs ABAP Vs Kyma

Introduction

Introduced in January 2021, SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) is a unique and powerful solution offering by SAP. It is the technical foundation of entire SAP ecosystem and plays a crucial role for all SAP customers and partners.

SAP BTP offers 3 major environments – Cloud Foundry, ABAP and Kyma. SAP BTP offers one more environment as well called Neo, which is going to sunset.

How to add a new field to the RAP BO of a customizing table

Introduction

In this blog post, you will learn how to adapt a RAP business object of a customizing table when you add a new non-key field to the table. Removing a field works very similar.

This blog is relevant for:

• SAP S/4HANA On-Premises 2022 or higher
• SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Public Edition
• SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Private Edition
• SAP BTP, ABAP Environment

SAP BTP ABAP Environment – Pre-Upgrade Option for Release 2402

Overview

Providing a significant number of new features is an important goal of release upgrades to deliver innovations to our customers and partners.

An upgrade is intended as a “no event” for customers and partners. For example, only compatible changes of released objects (APIs) will be delivered. But we recommend performing a test of the custom-built productive apps in a test environment for the new release. The complexity of the technical dependencies between the custom-built apps and the underlying environment cannot be tested isolated, only including the ABAP environment on SAP side. Therefore, we offer you to upgrade selected systems 15 days in advance to test the applications prior to the planned standard-upgrade.

Alternative option for IMPORT/ EXPORT using Shared Memory SHMA approach.

Motivation:-

In this blog you will learn how to use shared memory as alternative option of ABAP Memory(Import/Export).

Business Scenario:- Many of times we need Import & Export at the time of SAP Enhancement or other requirements so Here use of shared memory which is also alternate option of Import/ Export and as per SAP standard guideline this approach is highly recommended.