SAP BW 7.4 is released and we are excited to check the new functionality in the system. In this blog series we will collect the most interesting to us new or enhanced features of the system – Integration with SAP HANA database, Planning in SAP BW, LSA++, Operational Data Provisioning (ODP) and so much more.
The new major release of SAP NetWeaver is released and we are excited to check what are the new features and developments around SAP BW.
SAP HANA
SAP HANA DB
Logically, the major developments come around the integration between SAP BW and the SAP HANA platform. So, SAP Netweaver BW 7.4 utilizes the SAP HANA as an underlying database and facilitates the optimization of applications for SAP HANA.
SAP HANA Optimized InfoProviders
Developers can now implement standard InfoCubes, standard DataStore objects and semantically partitioned objects, which are optimized for SAP HANA. On top of that existing objects can also be converted to SAP HANA optimized ones. The remodeling feature is also enhanced, so that it can suit to the new objects.
New InfoProvider
The new InfoProvider is a VirtualProvider based on an SAP HANA model. Analytic views and calculation views are available as SAP HANA models. This type of VirtualProvider is capable to serve stable, long-term scenarios. Moreover, if you want a purely virtualized model, there is the option to create virtual master data as well.
Planning
Planning Applications Kit
In SAP BW 7.4 we have a new technical implementation scenario for planning applications. Now, besides the regular implementation model with Integrated Planning on top of a RDBMS, the planning engine can also have read access to the SAP HANA database or can use internal routines in the SAP HANA database for in-memory optimized planning using ABAP Planning Applications Kit. In BW, you can perform planning using internal database routines. You can check information further in SAP Note 1637199.
Planning on a DataStore Object for Direct Update
With this release of SAP BW it is possible to use DataStore objects for direct update in planning mode as planning-specific InfoProviders.
New Planning Function Type
Set Key Figure Values is available in planning. The function sets values for key figures and distributes them according to reference data.
BW Workspace
This is a completely new functionality, which allows business users to create models using central data from the BW system and local data, and to react quickly to new and changing requirements. The functionality targets users, who would like to create ad-hoc scenarios or would like to make a rapid prototype of a reporting solution. The environment is integrated into the existing BW landscape, but makes the typical BW functions less complex.
DB Connect
DB Connect can be used now to replicate data to BW from any schema in the SAP HANA database.
Transferring Data Using Operational Data Provisioning (ODP)
Using the ODP data replication interface, developers can transfer data from specific SAP repositories (especially from SAP HANA and SAP Business ByDesign) to SAP NetWeaver Business Warehouse.
Data Transfer Process
As of this release developers will be able to directly load mass data into an InfoProvider, without loading the data to the PSA before that. This is done through the ODP data replication interface. A DTP setting is used to automatically activate master data after it has been updated. This is possible because aggregates are not used with the SAP HANA.
Moreover, a query can be used as the data source of a data transfer process of type full. This allows the extraction of query data and the subsequent distribution through an Open Hub Destination. A possible target could be an SAP HANA database.