Database Reference
In-Depth Information
layer deals with native and open SQL services. The application layer will be tackled in
Chapters 8 “SAP CRM Enterprise Applications” and 9 “SAP E-Business Applications”, while the
middleware layer is described in Chapters 10 “SAP CRM Application Environment” and 11 “SAP
Tools and Programming”.
5. 2.10.1 Scalability
SAP's scalability on the technical front is easy to grasp. The multilayer client/server architecture
enables SAP to easily scale the operations from a configuration for few hundred users to a few thou-
sand. On particular sites, this scaling might also be dictated by the implementation of additional
modules or third-party specialized applications that are interfaced with SAP. SAP, however, also pro-
vides scalability on the business front as well, where an SME might commence using only a subset of
the functionality provided by the SAP system. As a result of business successes, an organization might
witness rapid growth and expansion in terms of volume, type, and the complexities of business activi-
ties. SAP can keep pace with such positive developments in the nature and structure of a company's
business by customizing its delivered functionality on an ongoing basis suitable to the increased scale
and complexity of its business. This is the genesis of SAP's configure-to-order strategy for SMEs.
5.2.11 SAP Repository
As mentioned in Chapter 2, Section 2.2, “Anatomy of a CRM System” the SAP Repository is the
central collection area for access or information on every kind of development object in the SAP
system. These development objects include the data and process models, the ABAP Dictionary,
function libraries, user exits, and Workbench Organizer objects. The Repository Information
System also provides a comprehensive cross-reference facility that delivers information on all of
the points of use for a specified object.
5.2.12 Comprehensive Application Development Environment
SAP has a centralized, integrated, full-featured development environment for custom develop-
ment or enhancement of SAP standard functionality.
5.2.12.1 ABAP Development Workbench
The Advanced Business Applications Programming (ABAP) language is a full-featured 4GL available
for custom development in the SAP environment (see Chapter 11 “SAP Tools and Programming”).
The ABAP Development Workbench provides all the necessary facilities, tools, and aids for the
design, development, and testing of application data tables, screens, programs, inquiries, reports,
and so on. At the heart of the Workbench is the ABAP Data Dictionary. The data dictionary stores
the descriptions of the table structures used throughout the system. It is the central metadata repos-
itory that we talked about in Chapter 2, Section 2.2 “Anatomy of a CRM System.” In addition, the
Workbench has an object repository that stores all objects under development, be they programs,
dynpros (dynamic programs), documentation, and so on. This controls the actual development and
testing of programs directly. On successful completion of the development, another component
called the Workbench Organizer handles the transfer of new developments and customizations
into productive systems or to other SAP systems. The Workbench Organizer maintains facilities
for version control.
