SAP BW landscape in transition: New paths for data architecture & innovation
The modernization of an SAP BW landscapebrings with it various potentials and challenges and offers a range of solutions. One key reason for this is the upcoming end of support for SAP BW 7.x in 2027. At the same time, the requirements for the integration and use of new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are increasing. In addition to the classic path towards SAP BW/4HANA or SAP Datasphere, the SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) in particular offers an exciting architecture concept to meet these requirements. It combines the strengths of proven SAP solutions - SAP BW, SAP Datasphere and SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) - in a flexible, scalable platform supplemented by the AI/ML capabilities of the Databricks platform.
What is an SAP BW modernization and why should you consider it?
SAP BW modernization refers to the updating and optimization of existing BW systems in order to meet the increasing demands on data management, reporting and analytics.
Modernization means much more than just a technical upgrade. It opens up the opportunity to streamline processes, simplify data architectures and integrate new technologies. At the same time, cloud solutions such as SAP Datasphere or SAP Analytics Cloud, which can be activated in the SAP Business Data Cloud, are becoming increasingly important. In addition to a new, modern user interface, these solutions enable federated data access, the integration of SAP and non-SAP systems such as Databricks and Google BigQuery, and thus the use of new technologies.
A migration of the ERP system to SAP S/4HANA can also have an impact on the existing BW data model. This is therefore an ideal time to review the existing BI and data warehouse solutions and modernize them if necessary - even if an SAP BW/4HANA system is already in use. Historically grown structures, redundant objects, slow programming or business logic that is difficult to maintain can be replaced by modern approaches such as federated architectures or simplified modeling. This reduces complexity and allows companies to use their data more agilely and efficiently.
Overall, the modernization of SAP BW is not only a necessary step to ensure system support, but also a strategic investment in the future. By migrating to modern, future-proof platforms and integrating innovative technologies, companies can optimize their data landscapes in a cost-optimized and scalable manner in order to react more quickly to market changes and thus sustainably increase their competitiveness.
Successful BW modernization at these customers
Our experience in the modernization of SAP Business Warehouse (BW) systems has enabled us to bring numerous companies up to the latest technological standards. We always implement projects efficiently, reliably and tailored to the specific needs of our customers. Here are some examples of successful BW modernizations that show how we support companies in optimizing their data landscape for the future.
BW Modernization at a glance
In this one-pager, we explain how you can get started with a future-proof data platform and how we can support you - options, opportunities and challenges quickly explained.
What options does a company have for carrying out an SAP BW modernization?
You have a range of modern and future-oriented options to modernize your data warehouse and business intelligence landscapes. s-peers AG offers comprehensive advice and support in selecting the best solution to meet your company's individual requirements.
The leading options include:
Each of these options offers specific strengths to fulfill your future target architecture. In addition, the optimization of licensing costs and the reduction of data redundancies will result in significant cost savings. Modernization also creates the basis for a future platform for self-service business intelligence that enables departments to access their data and perform analyses independently and flexibly. It also offers the opportunity to use new technologies such as AI and ML to gain even deeper insights and predictions and further improve decision-making.
It is crucial that the chosen solution creates a sustainable data platform that supports and actively promotes innovation.
What are the challenges of an SAP BW modernization?
SAP BW modernization is a complex and multifaceted undertaking that brings with it numerous technical and organizational challenges. This process goes far beyond a simple system upgrade and requires careful planning and execution.
Over the years, many BW systems have grown considerably and contain data from a wide variety of sources. This historically grown structure must be transferred to the new environment without compromising data quality or report availability.
The analysis of the current system environment provides reliable data on resource consumption, user numbers, data volumes and workload patterns, which forms the basis for a realistic forecast of future requirements.
It is also important not only to consider the production system, but also to include the development, test and sandbox systems in the planning.
With SAP BDC and SAP Datasphere in particular, sizing is based on a usage-oriented model. As BDC is licensed as a fully managed SaaS solution via capacity units (CU), the sizing depends largely on the scope of the data products, the number of users and the functions used.
It should also be noted that the platform makes it possible to integrate existing SAP BW environments step by step and dynamically adapt resources to current requirements. The use of modern technologies such as Delta Lake and a Medallion architecture ensures efficient data loading and, thanks to Delta Share and Zero Copy, allows direct access to original data without generating additional storage requirements.
Self-developed extractors, transformations and objects increase the complexity. The modernization path from BW 7.X to SAP BW/4HANA requires extensive preparations, depending on the database used and the installed Support Package Stack (SPS). This includes ensuring the compatibility of new technologies with existing processes and data models. Non-HANA-optimized objects, such as ODSOs, cubes, SPOs and MultiProviders, must be converted to HANA-optimized objects in this context. The Simplification List provides an overview of the objects to be converted.
Modernization also offers the opportunity to address existing problems and introduce improvements. In the context of BW/4HANA, for example, the LSA++ concept (Layered Scalable Architecture) can be used to reduce data redundancies and simplify the data architecture. With regard to cloud-based systems, concepts such as data fabric, data products and the sharing and maintenance of these in the central catalog become relevant. In addition, the switch to a standardized naming convention can promote readability and maintainability. However, this requires a great deal of detailed work and planning to ensure that no data or processes are lost or become inefficient.
Depending on the migration path chosen, modernization can have a profound impact on the front end. Tools such as SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC), BusinessObjects (BO) and Analysis for Office (AFO) are closely linked to the BW backend. Therefore, after the migration, reports, SAC stories, etc. may have to be adapted to ensure that they continue to function properly. This can involve considerable effort, as many adjustments have to be made manually.
One of the biggest challenges in modernization is ensuring data quality. In the new environment, all migrated data must be thoroughly checked to ensure that no data corruption occurs and that the accuracy of the reports is guaranteed. In addition, there are tests for the authorization concept. Only through intensive testing phases can it be ensured that the system goes into operation smoothly and supports all critical business processes.
Users and developers need to familiarize themselves with the new tools. Targeted training ensures that the new possibilities can be used efficiently.
What services does s-peers AG offer as part of an SAP BW modernization?
Thanks to its many years of expertise, s-peers AG offers holistic support for companies wishing tomodernize theirexisting SAP BW landscape. The process is divided into free phases in which the modernization is tailored to the customer's specific requirements and objectives.
Phase 1: Situation analysis
Influence of a parallel SAP S/4HANA migration: If a parallel SAP S/4HANA migration is planned, necessary adjustments and changes will also arise on the data warehouse side. It is important to include these in the modernization strategy at an early stage in order to optimally coordinate the migration steps.
Architecture workshop:
In the architecture workshop, the current system landscape is analyzed in detail: Existing source systems and architectures, data flows, InfoProviders, transformations and the current storage requirements are recorded and evaluated. Based on this analysis and the identified requirements and needs, the optimal future architecture is defined and presented.
We then present you with the recommended migration path, which is tailored to the specific requirements of your company. The advantages and risks of the various approaches can be discussed in a direct exchange.
In the following example, we show what a modern system architecture can look like that meets the current requirements for data flows, storage requirements and integration.
Phase 2: Preparation & implementation of the modernization
s-peers AG supports companies in all phases of modernization - from detailed preparation to successful implementation.
- Preparing for Modernization
Based on the analysis and the selected target architecture, we create a clearly structured project and cost plan for implementation. This defines the sequence, dependencies and tasks and thus minimizes risks in the course of the project.
- Migration and system conversion
s-peers provides comprehensive support for your migration and system conversion. Our service focuses on redesigning data modeling, efficient data transfer, and adapting the system architecture to promote seamless integration and optimal system performance.
- Testing and validation
We offer detailed test phases to check the correct data transfer and evaluate the functionality of the system after migration. We attach great importance to ensuring that all systems run smoothly and data integrity is guaranteed.
- Training Courses
s-peers organizes targeted training courses for end users and developers to instruct them in the new tools and processes. Our training helps your employees to quickly familiarize themselves with the new systems and use them effectively.
Phase 3: Support after the GoLive
- Hypercare phase
In the first few weeks after the go-live, we offer close support in order to quickly identify and resolve any problems. This intensive support ensures that the systems run stably and initial challenges are overcome promptly.
- Long-term support
Even after the go-live, we are always at your side. Our service includes assuming overall responsibility for analytics, user management and support with system upgrades. We offer Application Management Services(AMS) including 2nd & 3rd level support and provide further training in the areas of SAP BDC, BW, SAP DSP, SAP SAC, Databricks, Google Cloud and many other relevant topics. In this way, we ensure that your systems always function optimally and that your employees are always up to date.
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