SAP BW/4HANA

Overview

SAP BW/4HANA: The next generation of data management

The introduction of SAP HANA in 2010 created the basis for faster data processing. SAP BW/4HANA builds on this technology and offers the first data warehouse solution that supports both transactions and analyses in real time. This real-time capability enables companies to use data quickly and efficiently for decision-making processes.

BW/4HANA offers various interfaces for the provision of data for reporting and visualization purposes, which client applications (such as SAP Analytics Cloud) can use to consume prepared data.

Support for older SAP BW versions ends in 2027, with an optional extension until 2030. Companies looking for a future-proof solution should switch to BW/4HANA in good time in order to benefit from the modern functions and improved performance.

Advantages

SAP BW/4HANA: Real-time analyses and big data

SAP BW/4HANA is specially designed to integrate large volumes of data from operational SAP systems and analyze them in real time. HANA's in-memory technology not only enables fast data processing, but also the execution of complex analytical calculations. With predefined functions in data engines such as Predictive Analytics or HANA Spatial, companies can implement data-driven strategies.

Simpler administration and modeling

The platform reduces complexity with new objects such as Advanced Data Store Objects (ADSO) and CompositeProviders, which replace older structures such as InfoCubes and DSOs. Modeling is carried out using the Eclipse-based BW Modeling Tools, which also integrates the former BEx Query Designer. Companies also have the choice between an on-premise and a private cloud version, whereby the private cloud version significantly reduces the administrative effort as SAP takes over maintenance.

Migration

Greenfield approach

The greenfield approach describes a new implementation in which existing systems are rebuilt and relevant data is migrated from source systems. This offers the opportunity to design a modern architecture from scratch.

Brownfield approach

With the brownfield approach, the existing system landscape is gradually migrated to BW/4HANA. The conversion is carried out using migration tools such as the "SAP Database Migration Option" (DMO) and the "SAP BW/4HANA Starter Add-On". Legacy objects are converted into HANA-optimized objects. The complexity of the migration depends heavily on the existing applications. It can range from the scope of a major release upgrade to projects lasting several months or years.

Summary

A switch to SAP BW/4HANA is currently not absolutely necessary, but in the medium term the platform will become indispensable for companies that want to use real-time analyses and big data. New implementations should be carried out directly with SAP BW/4HANA in order to benefit from the improved architecture, real-time capabilities and simplified administration.

Overview

SAP BW/4HANA - The most important features at a glance

SAP BW/4HANA combines the most important functions and benefits of modern data analysis and management in a single platform. The following tiles give you a quick overview of the key features that characterize this solution.

Integration of artificial intelligence (AI)

SAP BW/4HANA enables the integration of AI functions to perform advanced analyses and forecasts. This supports data-driven decisions and promotes innovation.

Real-time data processing

Thanks to the in-memory technology of SAP HANA, BW/4HANA processes large volumes of data in real time. This enables immediate insights and accelerates business processes.

Simplified data modeling and management

The platform offers intuitive tools for data modeling and administration that reduce development effort and speed up the implementation of changes.

Integration with SAP and third-party applications

SAP BW/4HANA connects seamlessly with various data sources and applications, making data integration more efficient and cost-effective.

Scalable big data processing

The solution is designed to process large volumes of data and supports companies in exploiting the full potential of their data.

Intuitive user interface

With a user-friendly and modern interface, BW/4HANA increases user productivity and reduces the need for shadow IT.

Flexible deployment options

SAP BW/4HANA can be implemented both locally (on-premise) and in the cloud to meet the individual requirements and strategies of your company.

Future-proof platform

With continuous updates and long-term support, BW/4HANA offers a stable foundation for future business requirements and technological developments.

BW/4HANA