This book provides an essential foundation for successful data storage with SAP Business Information Warehouse (SAP BW). You'll benefit from step-by-step advice and instruction on all the most critical aspects of data modeling, beginning with the concept of data warehousing and the architecture of SAP BW. Learn how to set up data modeling and manage master data and transactional data efficiently. A highly detailed sample scenario is used to clarify this complex procedure. The three fundamental topics-InfoObjects, InfoProviders, and SAP Business Content-are introduced consecutively and illustrated in detail with practical examples. The book describes all of their options, special characteristics, and key interdependencies. Finally, the robust appendices serve to provide you with additional help, and come complete with a comprehensive SAP BW glossary. All information provided is current for SAP BW 3.5, but remains highly valuable to users of previous releases.
Table of Contents:
Preface ... 13
Foreword ... 15
Introduction and Overview ... 17
1. Data Warehousing Concepts ... 23
... 1.1 Introduction ... 23
... 1.2 OLTP and DWH: Different Requirements ... 24
... 1.3 Historical Observations ... 26
... 1.4 Typical Characteristics of Data Warehouses ... 29
... 1.5 Data Warehouse Architecture ... 34
... 1.6 OLAP Designs ... 51
... 1.7 The Multidimensional Data Model ... 54
... 1.8 Navigation in Multidimensional Data Sets ... 58
... 1.9 The Classic Star Schema ... 61
... 1.10 The Classic Snowflake Schema ... 62
... 1.11 The Enhanced Star Schema of SAP BW ... 62
2. SAP Business Information Warehouse-Overview of Components ... 67
... 2.1 The Architecture of SAP BW ... 67
... 2.2 Data Storage in SAP BW ... 69
... 2.3 Data Acquisition ... 75
... 2.4 Reporting and Analysis Tools ... 81
... 2.5 Open Hub Service ... 96
... 2.6 Additional Functions and Components ... 96
... 2.7 SAP Business Content ... 97
... 2.8 The Position of SAP Business Information Warehouse ... 99
3. Introduction to Data Modeling ... 101
... 3.1 Introduction ... 101
... 3.2 Some Theory ... 103
... 3.3 Conceptual Approaches to Modeling: Excursus ... 105
... 3.4 Back to Practice: Procedures for DWH Projects ... 113
... 3.5 Modeling (Conceptual and Physical Schema) ... 116
4. Sample Scenario ... 121
... 4.1 The Model Company: CubeServ Engines ... 121
... 4.2 Requirements of the Case Study ... 124
... 4.3 Procedure and the SAP Components Involved ... 127
... 4.4 Details on Data Modeling ... 128
... 4.5 A Look Ahead: Additional Steps in the Implementation ... 131
5. InfoObjects of SAP BW ... 133
... 5.1 InfoAreas and InfoObjectCatalogs ... 133
... 5.2 InfoObjects of SAP Business Content ... 142
... 5.3 Configuration of Your Own InfoObjects Based on SAP Business Content
InfoObjects ... 157
... 5.4 Modifying SAP Business Content InfoObjects ... 162
... 5.5 Creating Your Own InfoObjects ... 172
6. InfoProviders of SAP BW ... 189
... 6.1 Selective Approach ... 189
... 6.2 Characteristics as a Basis for Master Data Reporting ... 189
... 6.3 Financial Reporting ... 192
... 6.4 Profitability Analysis ... 223
... 6.5 Sales & Distribution ... 252
7. SAP Business Content ... 285
... 7.1 Elements of SAP Business Content ... 286
... 7.2 Fundamental Problems of SAP Business Content ... 286
... 7.3 Using SAP Business Content Versus Proprietary Objects ... 292
... 7.4 SAP Business Content in Selected Application Areas ... 293
... 7.5 Conclusion ... 303
Appendix
A. Abbreviations ... 305
B. InfoObjectCatalogs ... 307
C. ODS Objects ... 315
D. InfoCube »Actual Data: Profit and Loss Statement« ... 331
E. MultiProviders ... 351
F. InfoSets ... 359
G. Transaction Codes ... 365
H. Metadata Tables ... 369
Glossary ... 373
Literature ... 423
Authors ... 427
Index ... 429
