SAP Business Client is a versatile user interface that consolidates access to SAP applications, combining classic SAP GUI transactions with modern web-based applications such as SAP Fiori apps and analytical dashboards. For enterprises seeking actionable insights, building high-performance dashboards and reports within SAP Business Client is crucial to support timely and informed decision-making.
This article explores best practices, design principles, and technical considerations to develop efficient, responsive dashboards and reports that run smoothly inside SAP Business Client.
¶ 1. Understanding SAP Business Client’s Role in Reporting
SAP Business Client acts as a unified front-end, enabling users to access and interact with multiple reporting tools and analytics platforms such as:
- SAP Fiori analytical apps
- SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) embedded content
- SAP Business Warehouse (BW) reports and queries
- Custom dashboards built on SAPUI5 technologies
Its support for different UI technologies allows integration of rich, interactive dashboards alongside classic SAP transactions in one environment.
- Minimize data volume by implementing data filtering at the backend.
- Use aggregated data models or pre-calculated queries in SAP BW or HANA views.
- Leverage OData services optimized for performance.
- Avoid loading unnecessary fields or records in dashboards.
- Design dashboards with clear visualization focus; avoid clutter.
- Use lightweight UI5 controls that are responsive and optimized.
- Implement lazy loading for dashboard components to improve initial load time.
- Optimize graphics and avoid excessive animations.
¶ c. Caching and Data Refresh
- Utilize caching strategies in backend services to reduce repeated queries.
- Allow users to trigger manual data refresh or set intelligent auto-refresh intervals.
- Employ SAP Business Client’s capabilities to cache static UI components where appropriate.
¶ a. Use SAP Fiori Elements and Smart Controls
- SAP Fiori Elements provide prebuilt templates for common analytical scenarios with built-in performance optimizations.
- Smart controls adapt automatically to device and screen sizes, improving responsiveness.
- Embed SAC stories and analytical applications within SAP Business Client via iFrames or embedded content.
- Ensure proper configuration of data connectivity and single sign-on for seamless user experience.
- Collaborate with backend teams to optimize SAP HANA views, CDS views, and BW queries.
- Use explain plans and performance trace tools to identify bottlenecks.
¶ 4. Security and User Experience
- Implement role-based access control (RBAC) to limit data visibility and maintain security.
- Ensure secure communication using HTTPS and SAP authentication mechanisms.
- Provide clear feedback and loading indicators during data retrieval to improve user experience.
¶ 5. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement
- Use SAP Solution Manager and SAP BTP monitoring tools to track dashboard usage and performance.
- Collect user feedback to identify pain points.
- Regularly update and optimize dashboards based on usage patterns and new business requirements.
Building high-performance dashboards and reports within SAP Business Client requires a balanced approach that combines backend data optimization, efficient UI design, and smart integration strategies. By following best practices and leveraging SAP’s analytical tools and technologies, developers can deliver dashboards that provide timely, accurate insights with a responsive and user-friendly interface.
This empowers organizations to make faster, data-driven decisions while maintaining a seamless and unified user experience through SAP Business Client.