The SAP Mobile Platform (SMP) empowers enterprises to build robust mobile applications that integrate seamlessly with SAP backends. While SAP provides powerful Mobile SDKs (Software Development Kits) with pre-built functionalities, many organizations require custom solutions tailored to their unique business processes and technical requirements.
Developing custom mobile SDK solutions allows businesses to extend, enhance, and optimize their mobile applications beyond standard capabilities. This article explores best practices, key components, and development strategies for building custom Mobile SDK solutions within the SAP Mobile Platform.
- Tailored Functionality: Add specialized features that address unique business use cases.
- Integration Flexibility: Connect with non-standard SAP modules or third-party services.
- UI/UX Enhancement: Create custom UI components or workflows for better user experience.
- Performance Optimization: Implement custom data handling and synchronization logic.
- Security Extensions: Integrate enhanced security mechanisms specific to enterprise policies.
Before diving into custom development, it’s important to understand the core components typically used:
- OData Client Libraries: Manage communication with SAP backend OData services.
- Offline OData Store: Enable offline data access and synchronization.
- Authentication Modules: Support SAP SSO, OAuth, and other security protocols.
- UI Frameworks: Provide UI elements, often through SAP Mobile Development Kit (MDK) or native SDKs.
- Platform APIs: Access device features like camera, GPS, sensors, and notifications.
¶ 1. Define Requirements and Architecture
- Identify business processes and technical needs unmet by standard SDK features.
- Determine supported platforms (iOS, Android, hybrid).
- Design a modular architecture separating UI, data access, synchronization, and business logic layers.
- Install SAP Mobile SDK for the target platforms.
- Configure backend OData services and connectivity settings.
- Setup IDEs: Xcode for iOS, Android Studio for Android, or hybrid frameworks if applicable.
- Develop custom OData service extensions or new entities if needed.
- Optimize services for mobile consumption by implementing filtering, paging, and delta queries.
¶ 4. Build Custom Data Handling Logic
- Implement advanced caching, offline storage, and delta sync strategies.
- Customize conflict detection and resolution logic during synchronization.
- Ensure secure data storage and transmission using encryption and secure APIs.
- Create native UI elements for enhanced interactivity or branding.
- Integrate with SAP MDK for no-code customization where possible.
- Use platform-native APIs to leverage device-specific capabilities.
- Implement enterprise authentication methods such as SAP Single Sign-On (SSO), OAuth, or certificates.
- Use secure storage mechanisms for tokens and sensitive data.
- Enforce app-level security policies including session timeouts and data encryption.
¶ 7. Testing and Debugging
- Perform unit and integration testing on SDK components.
- Use emulators and real devices to validate performance and UI behavior.
- Monitor network calls and sync operations using tools like Fiddler or Charles Proxy.
- Conduct security testing for vulnerabilities.
¶ 8. Deployment and Maintenance
- Package custom SDK modules for reuse in other projects.
- Document APIs and usage guidelines for developers.
- Monitor app usage and logs via SAP Mobile Services Cockpit for ongoing support.
| Best Practice |
Description |
| Modular Design |
Build reusable SDK modules for easier maintenance. |
| Optimize Network Calls |
Minimize data transfer with selective queries and batching. |
| Use Platform Conventions |
Follow iOS and Android UI/UX guidelines for native feel. |
| Prioritize Security |
Encrypt data at rest and in transit, implement robust auth. |
| Comprehensive Logging |
Enable detailed logs for troubleshooting and analytics. |
| Continuous Integration |
Automate builds and tests for faster releases. |
- SAP Mobile SDK Documentation: Official SAP guides and API references.
- SAP Mobile Development Kit (MDK): No-code/low-code customization tool.
- SAP Web IDE: For developing and deploying SAP Fiori and mobile apps.
- Third-Party Libraries: Use open-source tools for additional UI controls or network management.
- Testing Tools: Appium, Espresso, XCTest for automated testing.
Developing custom Mobile SDK solutions on the SAP Mobile Platform enables organizations to unlock the full potential of enterprise mobility by addressing unique business needs with tailored functionality, enhanced user experience, and robust integration.
By following a structured development approach, leveraging SAP tools, and adhering to best practices, developers can build scalable, secure, and high-performing mobile applications that empower users and drive business success.