Introducing the SAP Business Client

Objectives

After completing this lesson, you will be able to:
  • Describe the SAP Business Client
  • Access the SAP System using the SAP Business Client

SAP Business Client

Overview

The SAP Business Client is a user interface, or UI, that provides a unified environment for accessing and working with various SAP applications, such as SAP S/4HANA, SAP Fiori, and SAP CRM. It provides a single point of entry for users to interact with different SAP applications and data.

This figure describes the SAP Business Client. A screenshot of it is provided and the key features of it are listed on the right of the image.

The SAP Business Client offers a customizable and role-based interface that allows users to access their relevant applications and data in a consistent manner, even when those applications have different presentation technologies. It also provides features such as personalization, integration with other tools, and a responsive design for different devices.

It supports the following connection types, and can be used to integrate SAP GUI for Windows transactions with the SAP Fiori Launch Pad:

  • SAP Fiori launchpad: Acts as a Windows-based desktop browser for the SAP Fiori launchpad with the ability to launch classic Dynpro applications (SAP GUI transactions) using an embedded SAP GUI for Windows.
  • Business Client: Provides role-based access to applications in an ABAP back-end system using roles that centrally hold SAP GUI, Web Dynpro, Fiori, and various Web content applications.
  • SAP Logon: Embeds pure SAP GUI system connections, allowing you to connect to any SAP NetWeaver AS ABAP release.

The SAP Business Client is available in two variants:

  1. SAP Business Client for Windows: A desktop application that runs on the Windows operating system.

  2. SAP Business Client for HTML: A web application that runs in a web browser on any operating system and comes embedded as a service in the ABAP Platform.

Each variant has its advantages and disadvantages.

SAP Business Client for Windows

SAP Business Client for Windows is a UI intended for power users. If installed, the SAP GUI for Windows itself is used as a rendering engine. SAP Business Client for Windows therefore replaces the SAP GUI as the central point of access for SAP applications.

This figure is a screenshot of SAP Business Client for Windows. It shows you the System Configuration screen.

SAP Business Client for Windows can access AS ABAP-based SAP systems with role-based menus and can also access SAP Enterprise Portal systems with PCD (Portal Content Directory) functions.

Advantages:

  • Better performance and responsiveness: The Windows client is typically faster and more responsive compared to the HTML client.
  • Greater integration with Windows features: The Windows client can better integrate with other native Windows applications and features, providing a more seamless user experience.
  • Enhanced customization options: The Windows client offers more customization options, allowing users to personalize their workspace and optimize their workflow.
  • Offline capability: The Windows client can operate in offline mode, allowing users to access and work with certain types of data without an internet connection.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited cross-platform support: The Windows client is limited to the Windows operating system, making it inaccessible for users on other platforms.
  • Higher system requirements: The Windows client may require more resources and system specifications compared to the HTML client, making it less accessible for users with older or less powerful hardware.
  • Installation and maintenance overhead: The Windows client may require more effort to install and maintain, particularly in large enterprise environments with multiple users.

Many customers may need to run on native SAP GUI for Windows transaction for various reasons, such as Office integration, Business Explorer, special controls such as ABAP editor or APOGrid, or other transactions that might not be available as SAP Fiori Apps or Web GUI at this time.

For more information, see https://blogs.sap.com/2020/02/20/the-sap-fiori-launchpad-in-sap-business-client/

SAP Business Client for HTML

Advantages and Disadvantages

SAP Business Client for HTML is a browser-based interface with a restricted functional scope. It is primarily focused on providing access to SAP applications and business processes through a web-based interface. It is suitable for users who need to access SAP software on the go or from non-Windows devices.

This is a screenshot of the SAP Easy Access menu.

The HTML version is generally more lightweight and easier to deploy, making it a good choice for organizations that prioritize flexibility and accessibility. The SAP GUI for HTML function is used for ABAP transactions in order to access AS ABAP systems.

Advantages:

  • Cross-platform compatibility: The HTML client can be accessed from any web browser on any operating system, providing greater accessibility for users on different platforms.
  • Lower system requirements: The HTML client typically has lower system requirements, making it more accessible for users with older or less powerful hardware.
  • Easier deployment and maintenance: The HTML client can be deployed and maintained more easily, particularly in cloud-based or SaaS environments.
  • Improved security: The HTML client can utilize modern web security protocols and features, providing a more secure user experience.

Disadvantages:

  • Performance limitations: The HTML client may be slower and less responsive compared to the Windows client, particularly for complex tasks and large datasets.
  • Limited integration with native features: The HTML client may have limited integration with native operating system features, potentially leading to a less seamless user experience.
  • Customization constraints: The HTML client may offer fewer customization options compared to the Windows client, limiting the ability of users to personalize their workspace and optimize their workflow.

The following table summarizes the major differences of these two variants:

Specific Needs of the Organization: SAP Business Client for HTML vs. SAP Business Client for Windows

SAP Business Client for HTMLSAP Business Client for Windows
No installation requiredIs installed on the end user interface
Integrated in the browser (uses SAP GUI for HTML)Includes SAP GUI functionality
Restricted functional scope on search functions, dropdown menus, drag and dropOffers full functional scope
No SAP Enterprise Portal functionalityCan be used for SAP Enterprise Portal including role content
Available for Windows, Linux, and Mac OSAvailable for Windows only

Ultimately, the choice between the two clients will depend on an organization's specific needs and priorities, including considerations such as performance, accessibility, and integration requirements.

Navigation

To learn how to navigate the SAP Business Client to access SAP business functionality, complete the following exercise.

ExerciseStart Exercise

Summary

You should now be able to describe the two SAP Business Client variants and use each variant to navigate your SAP system.

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