You can manually run a data subscription. However, managing data flows requires automation to ensure data is up to date and available. For scheduling and automation options related to data subscriptions you can use SAP BW process chains and SAP Datasphere task chains.
Using SAP BW Process Chain and SAP Datasphere Task Chain
A process chain in SAP BW can be used to manage and control data loading and transformation tasks in a structured way. Multiple steps (called processes) can be linked together and run in a defined order. Process variants are reusable configurations for the process types to define specific settings applying to them.
A task chain in SAP Datasphere is an automation option to streamline and orchestrate data integration processes. It can be created in the Data Builder in SAP Datasphere by adding different elements to the task chain canvas. As elements you can add, for example, local tables, remote tables and views, data flows, replication flows, transformation flows, and even other task chains.
Executing the replication of SAP BW data into a local table (file) in SAP Datasphere involves the following steps:
- SAP BW: Run a data subscription to extract SAP BW data into the inbound buffer of the local table (file) in SAP Datasphere.
- SAP Datasphere: Run a merge task to consolidate buffered files and update the delta table of the local table (file).
To schedule these activities by scheduling a SAP BW process chain, you need to define the following:
- Define a process chain in SAP BW: Include a process type "Load Process and Postprocessing – Data Subscription" with a process chain variant to extract SAP BW data.
- Define a task chain in SAP Datasphere: Include task type "Merge Task" to merge new data in the local table (file).
- Adjust the process chain in SAP BW: Add a process type "General Services - Task Chain" with a process chain variant.
Integrating an SAP Datasphere Task Chain into an SAP BW Process Chain
To run an SAP Datasphere task chain within an SAP BW process chain, follow these steps:
Open the Process Chain Editor app in the SAP BW/4HANA Cockpit.
Select Create to start a new process chain and Add Process to define a step:
- In the Properties of Process dialog, select General Services - Task Chain as the Process Type.
- Select the Target, Space, and the specific Task Chain created in SAP Datasphere.
Finalize and Execute:
- Save and activate the process chain.
- Select Execute or Scheduling to run the chain, and use Monitoring to view results.