SAP BW/4HANA

SAP BW/4HANA is a modern Data warehouse solution of the German software company SAP (short for: Systems, Applications and Products in Data Processing). The system helps to large amounts of data from SAP and non-SAP sources to integrate, process and make available for comprehensive analysis. 

BW/4HANA is based entirely on the SAP HANA in-memory database, where all data resides directly in main memory. This results in a significantly higher performance and real-time processing, which differ from the classic systems. 

SAP BW/4HANA is a flexible data warehouse solution available both on-premise (on your own servers) and in the Private Cloud Edition (PCE). Companies can decide, depending on their needs, whether they want to retain full control over their infrastructure and systems or leverage the advantages of a highly scalable cloud environment. 

Technically, both versions are largely the same; the difference lies primarily in responsibility and flexibility. 

The basic functionality of BW/4HANA includes, among other things: 

data integration 

SAP BW/4HANA supports both real-time data integration (e.g., with SAP SLT) and classic ETL processes via tools like SAP Data Services. For external sources, technologies such as Smart Data Integration (SDI), Open Connectors, or Operational Data Provisioning (ODP) are used. 

data modeling 

Data modeling in SAP BW/4HANA is based on a flexible layered architecture (LSA++). Advanced DataStore Objects (ADSO), CompositeProviders and Open ODS Views enable the creation of structured, harmonized models – the basis for self-service analytics, planning and reporting. 

Automation 

Automated process chains and data transfer processes (DTPs) allow loading and processing processes to be fully planned and monitored. 

Analysis & Reporting Preparation: The processed data can be consumed via SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC), SAP Analysis for Office, or OData-based interfaces. 

Security and permissions 

SAP BW/4HANA features a role-based authorization system that precisely controls which users are allowed to access which data. Analytics permissions ensure that sensitive data is only accessible to authorized personnel. The solution can also be integrated into existing security and data protection policies. Furthermore, SAP BW/4HANA supports data privacy and auditing functions. 

One of the biggest advantages of SAP BW/4HANA is its flexible expandability and adaptability to the individual needs of your company. This makes the tool suitable for various industries and areas of work where data is a valuable asset. 

Common uses include: 

Reporting & Business Analysis 

• Report creation 

• Analysis of key figures, KPIs and trends 

• Supporting management decisions 

Financial and controlling analyses 

• Analysis of costs, revenues & budgets 

• Group reporting 

• Forecasting & Plan-Actual Comparisons 

Logistics and supply chain 

• Analysis of inventory levels, delivery times and transport costs 

• Optimization of supply chains and material flows 

• Identification of bottlenecks 

Human resources 

• Analysis of employee data, turnover, training 

• Personnel planning and development 

• Diversity or skill gap analyses 

We at INSIRE For example, they specialize in SAP BW/4HANA for the finance sector and offer you different types of support in this area: 

• ConsultingWe use our expertise to address your individual situation and plan the specific course of action with and for you. Implementation can then be carried out either by you – or we can take care of it for you. 

• ImplementationUpon request, we will handle the integration according to your specifications, so you don't have to worry about it. 

• TrainingIn-depth training sessions help your team to make the best possible use of SAP BW/4Hana and integrate it into their daily work.