How To: Create Dataflow within BW/4HANA

What is a DataFlow Object?

The Dataflow object is a way to model your dataflow within SAP BW/4HANA within the Eclipse world.

It is a graphical feature which also enables you to create a dataflow from start to finish.

All created objects eg Datasource, ADSOs, InfoObjects etc are available for re-use within other dataflows.

The Dataflow object is transportable.

Another benefit is the feature of being able to add documentation to used objects.

In addition you can use a DataFlow for Blueprinting by using non persistent objects, once you are fine  with the model, persistent objects can be created out of the Data Flow.
If an object is persistent or not can be easily seen by its backgroundcolor, white means non persistent, blue means this object is already persistent.

Furthermore, the Data Flow object itself has no influence on the Runtime.

Now I want to show you how to Create the DataFlow Object with an example of a complete dataflow from Datasource to CompositeProvider.

How To Create the DataFlow Object

Right-click on Data Flow Object or

on InfoArea:

When creating the Dataflow object a transport request opens up.

Afterwards add a new or existing Datasource by drag and drop to the Details:

Double click on the entered Datasource leads to the following properties:

Select a Source System and if you want a copy from an existing or a proposal from an ODP connection.

By clicking on the „NEXT“ button the Dataflow is shown – now it is possible to add any other object to the dataflow.

In this example an ADSO was added and filled with three InfoObjects

Now you created a persistent ADSO.

Activate the newly created ADSO. Create a connection between the newly created ADSO and the previously created Datasource

Now you’ll see a transformation and DTP creation is possible based on the connection.

Right-click on the transformation symbol and select “Create Transformation … “

Now you are able to create a transformation – Target and Source are filled automatically:

Here you are able to define all settings for the transformation as well as connect to the fields from the previous ADSO

In addition, if infoobjects are available in the source – they are automatically connected. Don’t forget to activate!

Same for the creation of the DTP. All DTP properties can be selected. You can see/select/change all the properties already known in BW.

Same process for the composite provider – drag and drop the composite provider, assign a name and create a connection to the ADSO.

It is also possible to add a comment for the specific selections within the dataflow. Click the one you want to comment on – go to the properties section and add a documentation.