Exploring SAP Build Process Automation for Seamless Integration

Objectives

After completing this lesson, you will be able to:

Repeat SAP Build Process Automation Foundation.
Enhance business process efficiency by using SAP Build Process Automation.
Ensure seamless process release, deployment, and publishing with SAP Build Process Automation.

SAP Build Process Automation in a Nutshell

Overview of SAP Build Process Automation

SAP Build Process Automation enables organizations to automate workflows and processes using intuitive visual tools. Citizen developers can design, modify, and enhance business processes with minimal reliance on IT resources. The platform features user-friendly tools like the process builder and forms builder, offering simple drag-and-drop functionality to streamline automation. This empowers users to innovate and optimize workflows effectively.

Additionally, the platform supports advanced workflow management capabilities such as business rules, process visibility, flexibility, and AI integration. Users can also extend automation with embedded robotic process automation (RPA) features, and take advantage of reusable artifacts, such as bots and workflow components. SAP Build Process Automation combines both workflow and automation capabilities into a single, seamless solution.

Learn more about SAP Build Process Automation in our learning journey: Create processes and automations with sap build process automation

SAP Build Process Automation Business Scenario

The store S.MART has developed a process to optimize inventory levels. This process ensures that re-orders are triggered in the warehouse when certain criteria are met. The new re-order process is made available in the SAP Build Library, so it can later also be triggered by SAP Build Apps. This facilitates seamless integration and automation of inventory management.

Triggering Processes with API Integration

An API trigger is a mechanism that starts a process when an external system sends an API call to the process. In this use case, we must use an API trigger because the process must be initiated by an application, passing specific inputs as part of the API request.

An API trigger enables the automation of processes, ensures real-time integration of various systems, and flexibly configures custom workflows. This leads to improved efficiency, consistent data, and a user-friendly experience. Furthermore, an API trigger contributes to the scalability and future-proofing of the technological infrastructure by facilitating the easy integration of new systems and applications.

Overview of Trigger Types

Trigger Type	Explanation
API Trigger	Initiates a process through an API call from an external system.
Form Trigger	Starts a process when a user submits a form.
Event Trigger	Launches a process based on a defined event in the system.
Scheduled Trigger	Executes processes or automations at a predefined time or interval.

Summary

An API trigger is ideal for scenarios where processes need to be initiated by external systems. By following the steps above, you can set up an API trigger to enable seamless communication between applications and processes.

To Configure a Process to Trigger an API Request with Specific Inputs

Configure a process to trigger an API request with specific inputs.

Steps

Create the Trigger:
- Open the Trigger tile in the process editor and select Add Trigger.
- Choose the API Trigger option.
Name the Trigger:
- Provide a name and description for the trigger.
- The identifier is automatically generated based on the name.
Configure Process Inputs:
- Open the Process Panel to display Process Details.
- Navigate to Variables → Process Inputs → Configure.
Add Inputs:
Choose Add Input and enter the following details:
- Name: Specify the input name.
- Identifier: Automatically generated or manually adjusted.
- Type: Choose either String or Boolean.
- Required: Mark whether this input is mandatory.
Save the configuration to activate the API trigger.

Deploy and Publish Processes to the SAP Build Library

Before the integration scenario can be utilized to connect a process, an app, and a workspace in SAP Build, it is essential to ensure that the necessary processes are properly released, deployed, and published to the SAP Build Library. This preparation guarantees that all components are ready for seamless integration.

To begin, navigate to your project within SAP Build Process Automation. Confirm that you are working with the correct version by choosing Show Project Version. This step is vital as it ensures you are deploying the latest version of your project.

Next, move to the 'Deploy' section of the interface. Here, you will need to select the environment in which you wish to deploy your process. This could be a development, testing, or production environment depending on your specific requirements. Initiate the deployment process by choosing Deploy. During this step, you will be notified that a trigger will be created. This trigger is essential for the proper execution of the process. Confirm the deployment by choosing Deploy once again. As the deployment progresses, you will receive updates on its status. Once the deployment is completed, you will see a confirmation message indicating that your process is successfully deployed and active.

Screenshot of the SAP Build Lobby where you can publish processes to the SAP Build Library.

With the process now deployed, the next step is to publish it to the SAP Build Library, making it accessible for further use and integration.

Return to the Lobby and locate your specific project, such as "S.MART Re-order Process".
Navigate to the Versions section. Here, you will see different versions of your project.
Choose the three dots next to the version you wish to publish and select Publish to Library.

This action ensures that your process is not only deployed but also accessible in the library, allowing other users to utilize it as needed.

By following these steps, you ensure that your process is fully prepared and available for integration. This preparation is crucial as it guarantees that all back-end processes are in place and functional, paving the way for smooth integration with the app and workspace components in SAP Build Apps.

Once your process is properly deployed and published, you can confidently proceed with creating and integrating your app, knowing that all necessary components are ready and available.

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