Subject: SAP-Fiori-Design-Guidelines
The SAP Fiori Launchpad (FLP) is the entry point for SAP Fiori applications and serves as a personalized, role-based dashboard that enables users to access the apps and data they need to perform their tasks efficiently. Proper configuration of the Launchpad is critical to delivering a seamless, user-centric experience in accordance with SAP-Fiori-Design-Guidelines.
This article explores the essential aspects of configuring SAP Fiori Launchpad, from the foundational setup to user role assignments and design considerations.
SAP Fiori Launchpad is a web-based interface that presents users with tiles and links to access applications, reports, and tasks. It offers capabilities such as:
- Role-based access control
- Responsive design for all device types
- Centralized entry point for SAP S/4HANA and other systems
- Integration with notifications, search, and user settings
- Launchpad Designer (for classic on-premise systems): Used to create and manage catalogs, groups, and tiles.
- Launchpad App Manager (recommended for SAP S/4HANA 2020 and later): Simplifies the process with improved UI and integration for business roles.
For systems running on SAP S/4HANA, it is advised to use the SAP Fiori front-end server (FES) in embedded or hub deployment mode.
¶ 2. Catalogs and Groups
- Contain a collection of tiles or target mappings.
- Typically assigned based on roles or business functions.
- Used to organize app availability behind the scenes.
- Represent the visible tile layout on the Launchpad home page.
- Allow end-users to navigate easily to frequently used apps.
- Can be configured per role or customized by users (if allowed).
SAP Fiori Spaces and Pages are replacing Groups for a more flexible and scalable layout approach.
¶ 3. Spaces and Pages (Recommended Model)
Introduced as part of the modern Fiori Launchpad experience in S/4HANA:
- Spaces group related Pages, offering a cleaner, structured navigation experience.
- Pages define the actual layout with sections and cards.
- Replace older "Groups" model with better performance and user control.
- Greater personalization
- Better alignment with business roles
- Enhanced usability and navigation
¶ 4. Target Mappings and Semantic Objects
- Semantic Object: Represents a business entity (e.g.,
PurchaseOrder).
- Action: Describes what the user can do (e.g.,
display, manage).
- Target Mapping: Connects a tile to its corresponding application by defining navigation intent.
Example: #PurchaseOrder-display opens an app to view purchase orders.
Target mappings enable intent-based navigation, a core concept in Fiori Launchpad design.
SAP Fiori supports different types of tiles:
- Static Tiles: Fixed text and icon
- Dynamic Tiles: Show real-time data (e.g., number of open items)
- Link Tiles: Simple text-based links for lightweight navigation
Tiles can be configured to show titles, KPIs, and background images depending on the app type and use case.
Configuration is not complete until roles are assigned correctly:
- PFCG (Profile Generator) is used in SAP GUI to assign catalogs, groups, and apps to user roles.
- Each role bundles specific authorizations and Launchpad content (catalogs, pages, tiles).
- Launchpad behavior changes based on the user's assigned roles and authorizations.
¶ 7. Branding and Theming
The SAP Fiori Launchpad can be customized to reflect your organization’s brand:
- Use SAP Theme Designer to adjust fonts, colors, logos, and more.
- Apply consistent branding to reinforce corporate identity.
- Ensure design changes follow SAP-Fiori-Design-Guidelines to maintain usability.
¶ 8. Personalization and Adaptation
SAP Fiori Launchpad offers built-in features for personalization:
- Users can rearrange tiles, add/remove favorites
- Adapt UI using SAPUI5 Adaptation Mode or Key User Tools (like UI Adaptation at Runtime)
- Consider performance and security when enabling personalization
- Use Spaces and Pages instead of Groups for modern layout management.
- Structure catalogs logically to simplify maintenance.
- Avoid assigning too many apps to a single user role.
- Test navigation flows and user access thoroughly.
- Apply consistent design elements across all tiles and pages.
Configuring the SAP Fiori Launchpad is not just a technical task—it’s a crucial part of delivering a great user experience. Following the SAP-Fiori-Design-Guidelines ensures that the Launchpad is not only functional but also intuitive, accessible, and aligned with business processes. A well-configured Launchpad boosts productivity, simplifies access to critical applications, and enhances user satisfaction across the enterprise.