Title: Implementing SAP Business Client for Cloud and On-Premise Hybrid Environments
Subject: SAP-Business-Client in SAP Field
As enterprises increasingly adopt cloud solutions while maintaining on-premise SAP landscapes, the hybrid environment model becomes a strategic approach to leverage the best of both worlds. The SAP Business Client (SAP BC) serves as a unified desktop interface that seamlessly integrates applications from both cloud and on-premise systems.
This article discusses key considerations, architecture, and best practices for implementing SAP Business Client in hybrid environments, enabling smooth user experiences and efficient business operations across diverse SAP landscapes.
¶ Understanding Hybrid Environments
A hybrid SAP landscape combines:
- On-Premise Systems: Traditional SAP ERP, S/4HANA on-premise, SAP NetWeaver, etc.
- Cloud Solutions: SAP S/4HANA Cloud, SAP Ariba, SAP Analytics Cloud, SAP SuccessFactors, and more.
Users expect unified access without disruption, demanding SAP Business Client to integrate these heterogeneous environments effectively.
- Single Access Point: Consolidate access to on-premise SAP GUI transactions and cloud-based Fiori or web apps.
- Consistent User Experience: Uniform look and feel across different SAP solutions.
- Role-Based Navigation: Tailored menus combining on-prem and cloud apps for business roles.
- Optimized Connectivity: Configurable connection protocols for diverse system types.
- Connection Types
- SAP GUI Connections for on-premise SAP systems (via RFC, SNC).
- HTTP(S) Connections for cloud-based apps accessed via web protocols.
- Fiori Launchpad Integration to unify cloud and on-premise Fiori apps within SAP BC.
- Authentication and Single Sign-On
- Implement SAML 2.0 or OAuth 2.0 for seamless SSO between cloud and on-premise systems.
- Leverage SAP Identity Authentication Service (IAS) or corporate identity providers for centralized user management.
- Network Infrastructure
- Utilize SAP Web Dispatcher and SAP Cloud Connector for secure and efficient routing.
- Ensure VPN or direct network tunnels to connect cloud and on-premise environments securely.
¶ Step 1: Assess System Landscape
- Identify all on-premise and cloud SAP systems accessed by users.
- Catalog applications, technologies (SAP GUI, Fiori, Web Dynpro), and authentication mechanisms.
¶ Step 2: Define User Roles and Access Patterns
- Map business roles to required transactions and apps across systems.
- Define navigation menus in SAP Business Client reflecting hybrid system mix.
- Set up SAP GUI connections for on-premise backends.
- Add web shortcuts and URLs for cloud-based SAP Fiori Launchpads or standalone apps.
- Integrate Fiori Launchpad navigation via SAP BC’s URL-based tiles.
- Configure SSO mechanisms to avoid multiple logins.
- Ensure trusted identity federation between cloud and on-premise systems.
- Verify seamless navigation between SAP GUI and cloud apps.
- Test login flows, load times, and functionality on various client devices.
¶ Step 6: Roll Out and Monitor
- Deploy SAP Business Client configurations via central distribution tools.
- Monitor usage analytics, security logs, and user feedback to optimize.
| Practice |
Description |
| Use Central Identity Provider |
Simplify user management with SAP IAS or corporate IdP for hybrid SSO. |
| Optimize Network Paths |
Reduce latency with local web dispatchers and cloud connectors. |
| Regularly Update SAP BC |
Ensure compatibility with evolving cloud APIs and UI technologies. |
| Leverage Role-Based Menus |
Tailor UI for clarity, reducing complexity for end-users. |
| Monitor Security |
Enforce strict encryption and audit access for hybrid transactions. |
¶ Challenges and Solutions
| Challenge |
Solution |
| Authentication mismatch |
Adopt SAML/OAuth and SAP IAS for unified identity. |
| Network latency |
Deploy regional web dispatchers and optimize routing. |
| UI inconsistency |
Customize SAP BC themes and launchpad to harmonize UI. |
| Complex role management |
Use SAP Identity Management tools to sync cloud and on-premise roles. |
Implementing SAP Business Client in a hybrid cloud and on-premise SAP environment enables organizations to provide users with a seamless, secure, and efficient interface to all necessary SAP applications. By carefully designing the architecture, configuring robust authentication, and tailoring role-based access, enterprises can maximize the value of their hybrid SAP investments while enhancing user productivity and satisfaction.