SharePoint as a data source for BW/DS

1. SharePoint as a data source for SAP BW/DS: Seamless integration for optimized BI processes

SharePoint as a data source for BW/DS is an integration solution that makes it possible to import and process data from SharePoint lists, libraries and files directly in SAP BW and DS systems.This solution uses special connectors that convert SQL statements into SharePoint API calls to read and write data.

This enables companies to combine the advantages of SharePoint as a collaborative platform with the powerful analysis and reporting functions of SAP BW and DS. The solution comprises the following main components:

1. SharePoint platformServes as a central data source and collaboration platform.
2. Special SharePoint connectorEnables access to SharePoint data via SQL-like queries.
3. SAP BW/DS systemProcesses and analyzes the data imported from SharePoint.
4. Integration layerControls the data flow between SharePoint and SAP BW/DS.

This solution enables companies to effectively use SharePoint as a flexible and user-friendly data source for their BI processes without having to sacrifice the performance of SAP systems.

2 Why use SharePoint as a data source?

SAP offers SDI adapters for SharePoint (File/Excel) - but only for accessing files stored in SharePoint, not for accessing data lists/tables (see note: https://me.sap.com/notes/2726024)

With a SharePoint connector, SQL statements are converted into API calls to read from and write to SharePoint - this also enables reading data lists, document libraries etc. from SharePoint, updating metadata of files (e.g. supplier name) etc.

3 SharePoint offers numerous advantages as a data source for BW/DS:

• Widely used and already familiar to users

• No SAP user required to enter relevant master data / mapping information

• Standardized user interface

• Simple setup and expansion of required lists

• Integrated data validation and default values

• Version control and change tracking

• Integrated authorization concept

• Notification functions

• Central data entry without sending e-mails or document versions

• Customizable views

• Bidirectional synchronization with SAP systems possible

4 These are possible application scenarios

SharePoint is particularly suitable as a data source for the following use cases:

• Maintenance of mapping tables

• Management of supplier contracts and evaluations

• Provision of exported data

• Maintenance of country or product-specific groupings

• Creation of new hierarchies for BI

• Release of certain data by Controlling

5. Advantages over other methods

Compared to alternative methods such as S/4 data entry, BW InfoObject maintenance or file upload, SharePoint offers the following advantages as a data source:

• Access also for non-SAP users
• Integrated framework for data validation and notifications
• Change tracking at cell level
• Users can set up lists themselves
• Document storage at element level

6. conclusion

SharePoint as a data source for BW/DS enables flexible and user-friendly integration of company data. Thanks to its widespread use and extensive functions, SharePoint offers an attractive alternative to conventional data sources and facilitates data maintenance and provision for business intelligence purposes.