Special Edition Using SAP R/3, Third Edition

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Special Edition Using SAP R/3, Third Edition - CH 3 - Exploring R/3 Architecture Page 4 of 26 have to be isolated from the other systems. Yet the SAP system depends on manipulating complex data objects that may have their constituent data elements located in a variety of databases, including some that are at least occasionally uncoupled. Application Link Enabling (ALE) is the technology of integrating asynchronously coupled clusters of applications by using a method of message-based integration. It allows R/2 and R/3 systems to cooperate with each other and with third-party systems so that both data and business functions are consistent throughout the cluster. This is discussed in Chapter 8, "Developing Businesses on a Continuous Basis." Uncoupling Applications, Front Ends, and Databases Each component of an application--the software, the front-end system, and the database--is likely to be developed independently of the others. For instance, front-end presentation and user-interaction systems have changed from simple keyboards to slave terminals to intelligent PC-based user interface systems. Similarly, database hardware and software tend to be developed in cycles that are not attuned to developments in specific business software or user interface improvement. Because the SAP modular system of standard business software has always been designed with this diversity of hardware recognized as a salient feature of the business environment, there is no particular difficulty in uncoupling the application logic from the presentation system and the database configuration. Dedicated Database Servers The central database can be serviced in a single processor, a multiprocessor, or a cluster of processors. The configuration of the database complex can be adjusted to suit the volume of data and the traffic on the system. Dedicated Application Logic Servers The advantage of having one or more applications running on dedicated servers is that purely local business can be conducted with the systems uncoupled. The central facility then can be updated at the most convenient time and by the most efficient channels. As in the case of the dedicated database installation, a computer system assigned to one or more applications can be reconfigured to use different numbers and types of processors and interfaces according to the traffic demand and the complexity of the data items being processed. Scaling the processor capacity does not affect the application logic. Special Task Servers You can integrate a variety of specialized computer systems with the R/3 system: Optical archiving file://J:\prodinfo\MEMBERS\MA\ir057.html 3/23/01
Special Edition Using SAP R/3, Third Edition - CH 3 - Exploring R/3 Architecture Page 5 of 26 X.400 messages Telex and fax Background processing of transaction data Control systems for complex production plants Presentation Servers In accord with the technical evolutionary principle, the range and variety of presentation devices are likely to increase as manufacturers seek cheaper production methods and specialized niche markets in which their products will flourish. For instance, because of the wide market for personal computers, these devices have become viable alternatives to dedicated and custom-built user interface equipment. The SAP R/3 system supports the following types of presentation devices: Windows, based on the Windows Style Guide and directed by a dispatcher to control the different forms of communication OS/2 PCs Apple Macintosh OSF/Motif for X terminals OSF/Motif for workstations The R/3 system tends to adopt the style and local functionality of the presentation platform so that you do not have to get used to a different look or operating-key configuration. The interface between the user and an application is discussed in Chapter 2, "Interacting with the SAP Systems." Provisions for Continuous Business Development Business processes have always undergone change. New methods are invented to cope with new products or new customer requirements; old methods are adjusted to suit new circumstances. New people are recruited to replace those who are used to the old system of working. Some of these changes are beneficial, some are not. For example, new people might be ready to learn the new ways but lack experience with the customers, the suppliers, and the products. Such wisdom might be needed, even under the new regime. The SAP system expects a business to change. And the first big change to be expected is the installation of the SAP system itself. file://J:\prodinfo\MEMBERS\MA\ir057.html 3/23/01
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