Easily enable your SAP S/4 data into Snowflake

In the dynamic landscape of data integration, developing a data integration architecture is similar to constructing a fine-tuned machine. Our goal is to seamlessly orchestrate the flow of data from SAP S/4 systems towards Snowflake, two powerhouses in their respective domains. But before delving into the core of our architectural design, let's address the challenges that our SAP customers face.

Defining the challenge

In today's data-centric world, organizations increasingly recognize the value of Snowflake as their preferred data platform. However, this presents a significant obstacle for SAP customers, especially those lacking an enterprise license for their S/4 systems. They find themselves unable to directly access the database artifacts, due to restrictions.

This limitation also extends to the direct use of Operational Data Provisioning (ODP) framework with non-SAP products Azure Data Factory. While incredibly powerful for internal SAP usage, it is not intended or supported for external purposes [1].

Our objective

To overcome this hurdle and help our customers with this, we've defined a straightforward architecture. It focuses on utilizing the application layer, requiring only a runtime license and still utilizing the power of the ODP framework. This blog will provide an overview of how your organization can achieve this.

Building a simple architectural symphony

Imagine orchestrating a symphony, where each instrument plays a crucial role in creating a fantastic performance. In a similar fashion, our simple data integration architecture combines carefully selected components:

• Core Data Services (CDS): Think of CDS views as skilled musicians setting the stage. These views provide a structured representation of SAP S/4 data, forming the foundation for our integration. You can use either custom CDS views or standard views defined by SAP.

• OData API: Similar to a conductor guiding an orchestra, we ensure the OData API is in place. This API serves as the bridge between SAP S/4 data and the rest of the orchestra. It ensures that data is readily accessible for extraction, much like a conductor ensures that musicians are ready to play their instruments.

• Azure Data Factory (ADF): Our star performer takes center stage, directing and choreographing the dataflow of each component with precision and timing. ADF ensures that data from the OData API is transformed, harmonized and stored in Snowflake.

• Snowflake: The stage where the data takes its form is where SAP S/4 data's final act unfolds. It offers vast storage, scalability and performance. Using this platform, data can be transformed to valuable insights.

A symphony of Success

Picture the final act of our easy architectural symphony: data flowing seamlessly from SAP S/4 to Snowflake, orchestrated by best-of-breed components. Is this music to your ears? Make it a reality by following our step-by-step instructions, available for download. This guides you through each of the activities within SAP, Azure Data Factory and Snowflake. Download the instructions below.

Unlock the power of your SAP data in Snowflake today!

This blog provided you with a short overview on how-to easily enable SAP S/4 data into Snowflake using Azure Data Factory. It overcomes the additional costs of purchasing an Enterprise License and it defines a simple architecture, in line with SAP’s suggestions.

If you have any questions or need further assistance for related use-cases, please don't hesitate to reach out. Do not forget to explore our expertise page for additional resources and insights. Start unlocking the power of your SAP data in Snowflake, today!

[1] SAP Note: https://me.sap.com/notes/0003334148