Getting Started with Databricks & SAP BDC
- Big Data Analytics, Databricks, SAP BDC Databricks, SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC)
- 5 min reading time
Dr. Andreas Wagner
Databricks is the leading technology platform for data science and AI and optimally complements the SAP stack. While SAP provides the process-critical business data, Databricks as a state-of-the-art innovation engine. Together, they enable companies not only to manage complex data sets, but also to AAI-powered analytics.
Table of contents
1. Databricks as Top–modern data and analytics platform
Databricks is a specialized platform for data processing and analytics in the cloud. It was developed to efficiently process datasets and facilitate the training of AAI models. Databricks forms the foundation for a modern data lakehousein which business Intelligence (reporting), data engineering, and artificial intelligence converge on a shared data foundation. A Data Lakehouse combines the flexibility of a data lake with the structure and performance of a traditional data warehouse. Databricks uses this approach to break down data silos.
(Source: Databricks, SAP)
The key benefits of Databricks
Databricks Components
Databricks’ Data Intelligence Platform is based on an open lakehouse architecture. At its core is the Unity Catalog, which serves as a central governance layer to ensure security and transparency across all data and AI models. Four specialized pillars build upon this foundation: Lakeflow for data integration (ETL), Databricks SQL for traditional data warehousing, AI/BI for intelligent business analytics, and Mosaic AI for developing modern AI solutions. Together, these components enable companies to efficiently leverage their entire data ecosystem without relying on proprietary formats.
2. Whatisthe SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC)?
The SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) is much more than just a name for existing tools. Technically speaking, it is a bundle of proven SAP solutions (such as SAP BW, SAP Datasphere, and SAP Analytics Cloud), but behind it lies a true revolution in data management.
SAP has fundamentally redefined what a modern data platform must be capable of today. The result is a consistently implemented strategy that breaks down rigid data silos and creates an open, highly flexible cloud environment. In combination with partner platforms such as Databricks , this creates a powerhouse for modern analytics and artificial intelligence.
Why SAP BDC Is a Game-Changer
Conclusion:
With SAP BDC, SAP isn’t just delivering new software—it’s providing the answer to how companies can remain competitive in a data-driven world. It’s the seamless combination of SAP expertise with cutting-edge cloud flexibility.
3. DThe combination of Databricks and BDC is modern & powerful
The integration of Databricks and SAP BDC is not simply a connection between two systems, but a strategic alliance. It combines the reliable structure of the SAP world with the boundless flexibility and computing power of Databricks.
The best of both worlds
This combination solves a long-standing problem: Until now, SAP data was often trapped in its own silo. Through our partnership with Databricks, we are systematically breaking down these silos.
- Efficiency: You use Databricks' high-performance engine for complex analyses.
- Innovation: You train AI models using your actual business data from SAP BDC.
- Simplicity: Management is centralized, which significantly reduces the administrative burden.
In short: SAP BDC provides the “knowledge” (the data), and Databricks provides the “engine” (the computing power and AI) to turn that into real competitive advantages.
4. Use Cases: Theory in Practice
How does SAP BDC work with Databricks in practice? Here are three scenarios that demonstrate how data translates into real business benefits.
Scenario: A company wants to accurately forecast demand in supply chain management.
- The process: A completed data package (e.g., sales data) is activated in the BDC and transferred to the Object Store (steps 1 and 2 in the diagram).
- The solution: This data package is made available as a “delta table” via the Unity Catalog in Databricks (Step 3). With Mosaic AI, you can train a model on your private SAP data.
- Result: You get an AI agent that automates orders and optimizes inventory levels. The results are fed directly back into the SAP system via "Delta Share" (Step 4).
Scenario: Combining SAP financial data with external market data or third-party CRM data.
- The process: External data is loaded directly into Databricks. At the same time, the SAP data products are made available via the BDC Cockpit for Databricks.
- The solution: In Databricks, both worlds are brought together without the need for tedious back-and-forth copying (zero-copy).
- Result: Business units see not only what was sold (SAP), but also why (market trends). This enriched data is forwarded to the SAP Datasphere (Step 5).
Scenario: Processing millions of sensor data points (IoT) or massive transaction logs.
- The process: Mass data flows into the BDC Object Store.
- The solution: Databricks uses its high-performance engine (Apache Spark) to clean and structure this raw data in a flash.
- Result: The processed data is visualized for management in SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) (Step 6). This transforms complex data sets into clear dashboards for senior management.
Quick Overview: The Data Journey
To implement these use cases, the data flow follows a clear standard process:
- Activation: A data packet is activated and replicated in the BDC.
- Availability: The data product is listed in the BDC catalog.
- Sharing: Databricks accesses the data directly through the Unity Catalog.
- Value-added processing: At Databricks, AI and ML are used to create new, "intelligent" data products.
- Feedback: These results are shared in SAP Datasphere.
- Visualization: The final analysis is performed in SAP Analytics Cloud for all end users.
5. Conclusion & Outlook
The combination of Databricks and the SAP Business Data Cloud (BDC) forms the foundation for a modern, data-driven enterprise. It breaks down the old barriers between the structured SAP world and the flexible world of big data and AI.
Why should companies choose Databricks + SAP BDC?
✅ Openness: Seamless integration of third-party data (CRM, IoT)
✅ Speed: Lightning-fast analyses and AI solutions with custom agents
✅ Simplicity: Direct data exchange via Delta Sharing without the need to copy
✅ Control: A single, central location for security and access rights (Unity Catalog)
By adopting SAP BDC in combination with Databricks, companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of data innovation. They are ready to leverage integrated analytics and AI to drive growth and remain competitive in the evolving digital landscape.
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