When working with SAP solutions, one key question always arises: Should you extend In-App or go Side-by-Side with SAP BTP?

In-App Extensibility (SAP S/4HANA Cloud)

In-App Extensibility focuses on enhancing the core SAP system directly. It’s ideal for quick, straightforward changes that don’t require external integrations.

Supported Patterns:

  • Adapt existing Fiori UIs
  • Create custom forms or email templates
  • Add custom fields or business objects
  • Create queries for analytics
  • Define workflows and rules
  • Enable process integration and data replication

Examples Based on the Patterns:

  1. Modify Fiori UI: Add a “Delivery Priority” dropdown to the sales order app.
  2. Custom Fields: Include a “Preferred Supplier” field in procurement documents.
  3. Queries: Create a query to list overdue invoices for follow-up.
  4. Workflows: Automate the approval process for purchase orders based on thresholds.

Side-by-Side Extensibility (SAP BTP)

Side-by-Side Extensibility leverages SAP BTP for flexible, scalable innovations that operate outside the SAP core.

Supported Patterns:

  • Develop independent or dependent custom applications
  • Integrate third-party tools and applications
  • Build event-driven workflows and services
  • Enable advanced process integration and data replication

Examples Based on the Patterns:

  1. Custom Application: Build a supplier performance dashboard combining SAP data with logistics metrics from external providers.
  2. Third-Party Integration: Integrate Salesforce/SugarCRM/Dynamics with SAP for synchronized customer data.
  3. Event-Driven Workflows: Trigger alerts for stock replenishment when inventory levels are critically low.
  4. Advanced Process Integration: Connect SAP with payment gateways for automated billing and reconciliation.

Key Insights

  • In-App Extensibility is perfect for enhancing the SAP core with minimal complexity.
  • Side-by-Side Extensibility unlocks the flexibility to innovate and scale, especially when integrating external systems or creating independent applications.

Conclusion

Choosing the right extensibility option depends on your business needs:

  • Use In-App Extensibility for small, core-centric changes.
  • Opt for Side-by-Side Extensibility for advanced integrations and innovation outside the core SAP system.

Tags

#SAP #BTP #S4HANACloud #Extensibility #Innovation #EnterpriseApps