Analyzing and Implementing Interface Variants

Objective

After completing this lesson, you will be able to explain interface variants and their application in the Application Interface Framework for handling specific data messages with alternative processing logic.

Interface Variants

Interface variants provide an additional processing method for specific data messages within the SAP Application Interface Framework. They allow for slight behavioral changes without needing to create a new interface or making major changes to the original interface.

When to Use Interface Variants

  • Minor modifications needed: The required changes are minor and do not justify creating a new interface. For example: Sending data to a specific plant that requires more logic.
  • Preserving original interface: The original interface cannot be altered. For example: An interface provided by a global corporation that requires local adjustments.
Flow diagram showing an example of the use of an interface variant, showing how a key field value of B can have minor modifications using three different variant values.

Key Features of Interface Variants

Variant Key Fields

These fields identify which interface variant is used to process a message.

Creating Interface Variants

Unchangeable original interface: Interface variants are created when the original interface must remain unchanged. Use additional value mappings, field mappings, and fix values.

  • Additional checks and mappings: You can add extra validations and mappings in a variant.
  • Value and field mappings: Use additional value mappings, field mappings, and fix values.

Behavioral Modifications

  • Customizing during processing: When a message is processed using an interface variant, both the original interface customizing and the variant customizations are executed.
  • Additional or different processing: Variants enable additional or different mappings/checks based on the sender of the interface.
  • Invariant original definition: The original interface definition's processing steps can't be omitted.
Visual to represent behavioral modifications, including a table for each type as described in the text above.

Practical Applications of Interface Variants

Example Scenario

Company Code Mapping:

  • Original mapping: The original interface does not perform company code mapping.
  • Variant mapping: Different variants handle different company code mappings based on different logics, while common elements remain in the original interface definition.

Steps to Implement Interface Variants

  1. Identify requirements: Determine the specific cases where modifications are needed without altering the original interface.
  2. Create interface variant: Define a new interface variant using the variant key fields.
  3. Define customizing: Implement additional checks, mapping, and values specific to the variant.
  4. Testing: Ensure both original and variant customizations work together during message processing.

Best Practices

  • Consistency: Maintain consistency in the naming conventions and logic implementations across variants.
  • Documentation: Keep detailed documentation for each variant, explaining the specific changes and logic implemented.
  • Regular Updates: Periodically review and update variants to align with new business requirements or changes in the source systems.
Visual representation of the four steps as described in the steps to Implement Interface Variants.

How to Maintain and Use Interface Variants

Watch this scenario unfold as you delve into the creation and management of interface variants for the FLBOOKING interface customized for Sales Agency 120. The configuration includes additional checks, variant assigning tables, key field definitions, mappings, and testing to ensure flights are booked at least three months in advance. Embark on this journey to enhance your understanding and utilization of interface variants within the SAP Application Interface Framework.

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