Here, we delve into the complexities of SAP BTP application development, presenting various use cases and sharing invaluable insights into best practices.

Use Cases and Best Practices in SAP BTP Application Development

• Are you having trouble coordinating and streamlining activities due to disparate systems?
• Are your existing business solutions limited in their ability to provide the required support for your business operations, and do you need to enhance their functionality?
• Do large amounts of independent technologies and tools slow your  development process, not allowing you to adapt swiftly to changing business needs?
• Do you face challenges in extracting actionable insights from your vast datasets, leading to decision-making bottlenecks?
• Do you need a basis for introducing AI to your business processes?

If you face any of these challenges, SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) might be the solution you need. BTP stands as the primary platform driving innovation for SAP customers. Embracing BTP and its offerings can grant you a significant competitive edge. Its benefits encompass integrations, streamlined processes and decision-making, AI capabilities, and seamless data access.

Here, we delve into the complexities of SAP BTP application development, presenting various use cases and sharing invaluable insights into best practices. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to decide whether SAP BTP aligns with your needs for transforming your technological landscape. Experience firsthand how our expertise in SAP technologies can enhance your development journey, opening doors to greater efficiency and innovation.

What You Get With SAP BTP

Embarking on an application development journey transforms into an exciting experience with SAP BTP at the forefront. Why? SAP BTP stands as the driving force behind cutting-edge innovation for SAP users. Adapting to its diverse features grants you a decisive advantage in today's fiercely competitive landscape. Additionally, it is a platform that provides all required tools and best practices that might be needed for building the unified landscape of solutions and automation, integrating SAP and non-SAP solutions, and enabling AI capabilities. So, let's discover how SAP BTP empowers you to outpace competitors and capitalize on fresh opportunities.

Customization/Extension without compromise

Leveraging SAP BTP's tools and frameworks for side-by-side extensions allows for customization while safeguarding your system's upgradeability and security. For instance, by integrating SAP Clean Core principles into the development workflow, you can uphold S/4HANA system robustness and reduce efforts during upgrades, ensuring a seamless experience for users.

Seamless integration with SAP / non-SAP systems

With SAP BTP, specifically SAP Integration Suite, you can effortlessly leverage existing SAP systems, maximizing efficiency by building upon prior investments and ensuring a harmonious integration process between SAP and non-SAP solutions.

Unlocking the power of AI

With SAP BTP's AI capabilities, including SAP AI Core and SAP AI Business Services, you can elevate your applications with intelligent features and automation. Implementing these along with integrated Large Language Models and Generative AI capabilities using embedded SAP BTP GenAI Hub ensures that your data is properly secured.

Real-time insights, real-time action

SAP BTP's advanced analytics capabilities, achieved through the integration of tools like SAP DataSphere and SAP Analytics Cloud, provide real-time reporting. This resolves the challenge of extracting actionable insights from complex ERP data, as well as data from devices and third-party systems

Simplify IoT complexities

SAP BTP's comprehensive framework for developing IoT-driven applications directly addresses challenges associated with real-time device monitoring, sensor data analysis, and the implementation of predictive maintenance strategies.

Fortify data protection with ease

With SAP BTP's 'security by design' approach, your applications adhere to the highest standards of authentication and authorization, ensuring robust data protection and addressing the challenge of maintaining trust among stakeholders and customers.

Pre-built business content and digital assistant for expedited development

SAP BTP provides access to a treasure trove of pre-built process automation content, application templates, and ready-to-use APIs. In this way, it allows development projects to be expedited by incorporating best practices from various industry backgrounds.

Moreover, SAP Build Code facilitates quick project bootstrapping with SAP Joule, an embedded digital assistant and Natural Language. This feature improves efficiency and collaboration across the development lifecycle and facilitates more seamless project initiation and execution.

Low-code development with SAP Build

SAP Build offers unmatched low-code development capabilities, saving businesses valuable time. With tools like SAP Build Apps, Process Automation, and Work Zone, you can swiftly create custom applications. Low-code development enables users with diverse coding skills to rapidly deploy apps, automation, and business sites.

Comprehensive cloud development services

SAP BTP provides access to crucial tools and frameworks such as the SAP BTP ABAP Environment and the SAP Restful ABAP Programming Model (RAP). These resources streamline the process of deploying cloud-native applications, facilitating developers in efficiently creating and launching solutions within the BTP ecosystem. For instance, the SAP BTP ABAP Environment enables the seamless migration of ABAP applications, even those with extensive codebases, to the cloud.

Synergy with hyperscalers

With SAP BTP, you can enjoy a seamless blend of application development and integration services with the infrastructure services of hyperscalers like AWS, Azure, and GCP. This way, you can get the best of both worlds for an unparalleled development experience.

Accelerated mobile development

When it comes to mobile application development, SAP offers multiple options tailored to the flexibility and compatibility needs of the desired solution. Developers can choose from SAP Build Apps, Mobile Development Kit, and SDKs for iOS and Android, providing versatile tools to create robust and user-friendly mobile applications.

Unlock Real-World Business Solutions: Explore SAP BTP's Use Cases From LeverX’s Portfolio

To provide a glimpse into the impactful business potential of SAP BTP and illustrate how it could benefit your enterprise, let's delve into a journey exploring real-world business use cases from our portfolio.

Use case 1: Digital sales assistant for metal parts manufacturing company

Based in the US, the metal parts manufacturing company faced significant challenges in processing orders and invoices due to the multitude of formats in which they were received from customers. This variability led to inefficiencies, errors, and delays in their sales processes, which were mainly performed manually. They required a solution that could streamline order and invoice processing, automate repetitive tasks, and ensure accuracy and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

SAP BTP provided a comprehensive solution to address the client's challenges:

• SAP BTP seamlessly integrated with the client's existing S/4HANA system, enabling efficient data exchange and synchronization.
• The solution facilitated smooth integration with third-party services utilized by the client, ensuring interoperability and data coherence across systems.
• Leveraging SAP Build Process Automation capabilities, the solution automated the processes related to accessing  email inquiries, checking stocks, reducing manual intervention, and enhancing operational efficiency.
• SAP BTP enabled the development of intuitive user interfaces, including a mobile experience for confirmation flows and enhanced user accessibility and productivity.
• The solution leveraged the GenAI Hub and incorporated custom integrations with Language Model APIs (LLMs) to accurately extract key details from orders and invoices.
• Depending on the required quality and performance, the solution utilized GPT4/3.5-based models for tasks such as natural language processing, ensuring high accuracy and reliability, as well as taking into account the final costs.

Use case 2: Transforming multinational apparel operations with S/4HANA Clean Core extensions on SAP BTP

Faced with the challenges of maintaining and optimizing its SAP S/4HANA system, a multinational corporation in the apparel industry sought to enhance its performance, while minimizing disruptions during upgrades. With a global workforce of more than 65,000 employees and a diverse range of products, several branches, and production plants, the client aimed to streamline their operations and ensure seamless business processes.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

Embarking on a transformative endeavor, LeverX orchestrated a comprehensive development strategy that unfolded across distinct phases. 

1. Assessment and planning
We initiated the process by conducting a detailed assessment of the existing codebase, pinpointing areas for optimization and enhancement. This included reviewing and identifying code incompatibilities, examining relevant external S/4HANA APIs, and scrutinizing released objects and successor objects. We also performed thorough ATC checks to uphold code quality and compliance standards. Additionally, we evaluated the applicability of the Custom Code Migration App to facilitate the migration process. We adhered to SAP's "Clean Core" principles throughout these steps, ensuring a smooth and efficient migration process.

2. Transformation efforts 
LeverX initiated a transformation phase focused on modernization with SAP BTP and BTP ABAP Environment. Custom ABAP programs were re-architected and modernized, integrating the ABAP RESTful Application Programming Model (RAP) to improve performance, scalability, and maintainability per the client's objectives.

Moving forward, LeverX streamlined the migration process by minimizing customizations and reducing dependency on custom code — this effort aimed to optimize system performance and mitigate risks associated with future S/4HANA upgrades. Throughout the process, adherence to SAP Activate Methodology and implementation of best practices for code quality and compliance were prioritized to safeguard the client's long-term investment.

3. Collaboration and support
Throughout the project, LeverX collaborated closely with the client's technical team, providing guidance, training, and support. Our aim was to ensure a seamless transition to the new environment, empowering the client's team to maximize the benefits of the solution, as well as to understand how to use new implementation approaches compared to classical ABAP to the team.

The collaboration between the multinational corporation and LeverX led to considerable increases in system performance, stability, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, LeverX completed the project in an astonishingly short time — just three months.

Key achievements of this venture included reduced downtime during upgrades, lower maintenance overheads, enhanced agility in responding to business requirements, and knowledge transferred by our customer’s teams.

Use case 3: Risk reporting tool for a global chemical manufacturing company

A global chemical manufacturing company faced significant challenges in managing and reporting risks across its diverse organizational landscape. With operations spread worldwide, they struggled with consolidating risk data, predicting potential financial impacts, and ensuring transparency in risk management processes. Existing solutions were inadequate in providing real-time insights and lacked a user-friendly interface for stakeholders.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

LeverX leveraged cutting-edge technologies and tools to craft a stand-alone Risk reporting tool (RTT) to address the client's challenges. SAP BTP solution provides the following:

• Seamless reporting and tracking of risks within the organization
• Uses advanced analytics to predict potential risks and their financial implications, empowering decision-makers with proactive insights
• A user-friendly interface that enables global stakeholders across different business entities to easily participate in risk management activities
• Integration with government audit systems that facilitates the review and monitoring of financial information in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Use case 4: Optimization of maintenance operations with SAP BTP

A leading sugarcane company based in the US aimed to improve their maintenance processes for machinery repairs. However, the existing maintenance flow processes faced challenges of disconnected data, manual analysis, and delayed data processing. These challenges made the business architects seek a tech solution to: 

• Provide a real-time analysis of collected data insights. 
• Reduce potential delays in decision-making and execution processes, compared with traditional manual methods. 
• Open up space for the adoption of new cloud technologies on BTP to ensure its future availability to operators.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

After extensive consultations with key stakeholders, LeverX proposed a comprehensive roadmap tailored to the client's needs, outlining steps for modernization.

Our mission was to craft a modern solution that would not only optimize the client’s maintenance processes but also empower their workforce and streamline data management. To achieve this, we took the following steps:

1. Solution architecture
We engaged in thorough discussions regarding data contracts and the strategy for implementing mobility using SAP Mobile Start and Build Work Zone. This culminated in the creation of a comprehensive solution architecture to encompass data flows, protocols, and other crucial components.

2. Planning and timeline
The project planning and timeline were carefully crafted to ensure smooth progress and timely delivery. While the project was notably straightforward, we emphasized regular updates and embraced an iterative delivery approach to enhance adaptability and responsiveness. Key milestones and timelines were established to maintain project momentum and facilitate efficient execution.

3. Streamlining data management
Streamlined data management was crucial for our project's success, which we achieved by seamlessly integrating with SAP Datasphere. The client took the lead on this step, enabling data aggregation for real-time insights, thus enhancing our decision-making processes. Their team handled it using SAP Datasphere and established an API Management layer for efficient data consumption by mobile application.

4. Ensuring connectivity and security
One of our top priorities was to guarantee robust connectivity and stringent security measures, since we were consuming API Management APIs provided by the client. To achieve this, we implemented a standard user authentication mechanism based on SAP Identity Authentication Services for the mobile application and used destination connectivity within SAP Build Apps development environment. Through these concerted efforts, the integrity of the systems was fortified while maintaining uninterrupted connectivity, laying a solid foundation for the secure exchange of information between the system components.

5. Training and knowledge transfer
We provided comprehensive training and documentation to empower the client’s team with the knowledge to effectively use the new mobile solution and its architecture. This step facilitated a smooth transition and enabled users to maximize the benefits of the modernized system.

Our collaboration with the client resulted in transformative outcomes that delivered tangible benefits and drove operational efficiency across their maintenance processes. The results of the implementation were shared at a couple of events including the niche SAP BTP Champion Days conference and SAP SAPPHIRE in Orlando.

Use case 5: Strategy management SaaS solution development

An Information Technology provider based in the US needed to effectively manage strategies across diverse industries. The goal was to streamline strategy execution, align organizational goals and enhance collaboration They sought a comprehensive solution that would help them meet the following challenges:

• Existing systems that lacked a centralized platform for managing strategies, resulting in fragmented processes and disjointed efforts.
• Difficulty in integrating actual data from external sources, which  hampered decision-making and hindered the accuracy of strategic insights.
• The absence of ad hoc reporting capabilities restricted access to siloed information and limited collaboration tools, hindering communication and alignment across vertical and horizontal organizational structures.
• The inability to receive time-sensitive alerts and notifications led to missed opportunities and delayed responses to critical events.
• Absence of SaaS model that would allow multiple end-clients to use the solution.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

SAP BTP provided the foundation for developing a robust strategy management solution tailored to the client's needs. The solution addressed the challenges through the following features and capabilities:

• Data integration
  Seamless integration capabilities facilitated the loading of actual data from external sources, ensuring the availability of accurate and up-to-date information for decision-making.
• Ad hoc reporting
  Powered by SAP Analytics Cloud, the solution offered ad hoc reporting functionalities, enabling users to generate insights on-demand and respond swiftly to changing business requirements.
• Strategies and KPIs with powerful visuals
  The platform provided a visually engaging interface for defining strategies and key performance indicators (KPIs), enhancing clarity and understanding across the organization. Additionally, we integrated intuitive SAP Fiori UI controls, further streamlining the user experience and facilitating efficient navigation.
• Greater collaboration
  Access to centralized information and collaboration tools promoted greater alignment and collaboration among teams, fostering a culture of transparency and shared accountability.
• Vertical and horizontal alignment
  The solution facilitated both vertical and horizontal alignment of organizations, ensuring coherence between strategic objectives and operational execution.
• Notifications and time-sensitive alerts
  Real-time notifications and time-sensitive alerts enabled users to stay informed about critical events and take proactive actions, minimizing response times and maximizing opportunities.

Use case 6: Enhancing the shopping experience with SAP Ariba Mobile

Our client recognized the need to revolutionize the shopping experience for its users. Facing challenges in accessibility, convenience, and user engagement, they aimed to enhance their mobile application.

Key challenges included:

• Simplifying the sign-in process while ensuring security and convenience for users.
  Improving accessibility features to cater to a diverse user base, including those with disabilities.
• Enhancing user engagement through innovative features such as voice control and augmented reality (AR) views.
• Optimizing search functionalities and catalog management to provide users with relevant and accurate product information.
• Incorporating sustainability information for goods to align with corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Providing personalized recommendations and a seamless shopping experience through features like related items and order management.

How LeverX addressed challenges with SAP BTP

SAP BTP played a major role in addressing the challenges and delivering an enhanced shopping experience through the SAP Ariba Mobile application and provided the following functionalities: 

• Integration of Face ID and Touch ID authentication options for streamlined and secure sign-in processes.
• Integration with virtual assistants such as Siri and Google Assistant, allowing users to navigate the app hands-free.
• Implementation of accessibility features to ensure inclusivity for users with disabilities, complying with accessibility standards.
• Enhancement of textual and voice search functionalities, coupled with comprehensive catalog and package management capabilities.
• Integration of augmented reality technology to provide users with immersive views of products before making a purchase decision.
• Inclusion of sustainability information for goods, enabling users to make informed purchasing decisions aligned with environmental values.
• Implementation of related and recommended items features, along with personalized recommendations based on user preferences and past purchase history.
• Seamless management of orders within the application, allowing users to efficiently track and manage their purchases.
• Integration of push notifications to keep users informed about order status updates, promotions, and relevant updates.

Unlocking Excellence in SAP BTP Development at LeverX

LeverX, a SAP Gold Partner, has delivered numerous SAP BTP solutions globally, serving diverse clients, including SAP itself. Our approach blends extensive experience with strategic methodologies to ensure the highest standards and optimal results in application development

Explore how we infuse innovation and efficiency into SAP BTP application development through the following key best practices:

Design Thinking approach

Our application development with SAP BTP is not just about code – it's a holistic journey driven by a design thinking approach. This methodology allows us to prioritize user experience, engage stakeholders early in the development process, and iteratively refine solutions to align seamlessly with your business needs. This perfectly reflects the user-centric focus showcased in the SAP BTP use cases we've explored.

Modular development and microservices

Embracing a modular development approach, we break down applications into smaller, manageable components. Case by case we build the clients’ solutions using past expertise and best practices provided by SAP for software engineering.

Security by design

Security is paramount in our SAP BTP application development. Following the best practices of authentication and authorization, and conducting routine security audits, we fortify your applications, perfectly aligning with the security concerns addressed in our SAP BTP use cases.

Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

Our CI/CD practices implementation aligns seamlessly with the need for streamlined and efficient development pipelines highlighted in SAP BTP use cases. By automating testing, deployment, and monitoring processes, we enable rapid iterations to ensure quick responses to evolving business requirements in line with the dynamic scenarios presented in our use cases.

Leveraging SAP Fiori for intuitive UI/UX 

We adhere to SAP Fiori design principles in crafting interfaces for SAP BTP applications, ensuring consistency and responsiveness for heightened usability and satisfaction. Additionally, for complex cases, we offer custom UI solutions based on modern frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue, providing flexibility and tailored experiences when needed.

Embark on a transformative path towards excellence in your business processes by harnessing the power of our SAP BTP expertise. Take the first step by filling out the form below to initiate a discussion about your project. Discover how LeverX can elevate and redefine your SAP BTP development journey. Your path to optimized business operations awaits – let's shape it together.