Converting IDoc Formats

The format conversion tool that ships with Adapter for SAP R/3 is a valuable resource for you to more easily migrate IDoc formats. Formats are dependent on the field mapping that you have done so you must also migrate those mappings. The purpose of the conversion tool is to preserve the field mappings used for output formats and transfer those current field mapping to the newly loaded format. The tool does this using two format export files as input to produce a new format export file; the new format export file combines the information from the two formats. This is intended to save you time because, after you use the tool to transfer you old field mappings, you need map only the new fields. Formats can be converted without doing rules at the same time, but rules cannot be converted without also converting the associated formats.

To use the IDoc conversion tool, export your old IDoc output format and the new unmapped output format loaded using the version 3.9 adapter. Then edit the conversion tool configuration file to specify the names of the format export files and run the tool. IDoc formats required by version 3.9 into the IDoc conversion tool. The tool then creates one usable format based on the mapping of the two formats.

After you have transferred the field mapping, you may validate the converted format by reformatting previously used messages and confirming that the output message fields contain the expected data. The New Era of Networks utility programs msgtest.exe and ruletest.exe can be used to validate your converted messages and rules.

The IDoc conversion tool for Adapter for SAP R/3 provides the tools to do the following:

•Migrate IDoc formats from a 4.x Formatter database (database used by Adapter for SAP R/3 version 3.0.3) to a 5.4 Formatter database (database used by Adapter for SAP R/3 version 3.8).

•Update an extended IDoc format to a 5.6 Formatter database.

•Update a currently used IDoc format in a 5.x Formatter database to a newer version.

If you are currently using map objects with formats for either of the last two scenarios, the conversion tool is not necessary because map objects preserve the field mapping from the original format. Map objects are available only with New Era of Networks formatters.

Note The following procedures must be applied individually to each IDoc format that is being migrated. The conversion tool is able to handle only one IDoc type at a time.

6	Adapter for SAP R/3

R/3 specifications

Sybase R/3, also known simply as R/3, is a comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solution originally developed by SAP, which has been significantly shaped by Sybase's underlying technologies. This powerful system is designed to help organizations manage their business processes efficiently and effectively.

One of the main features of Sybase R/3 is its modular framework. This framework allows businesses to implement only the necessary modules for their operations, such as finance, materials management, sales, and human resources. This modularity ensures that organizations can scale their ERP solutions as they grow, minimizing unnecessary complexity and cost.

Another notable feature of Sybase R/3 is its integration capabilities. The software is built to handle data from various sources and applications seamlessly, ensuring that all aspects of a business can communicate and function effectively. This is particularly important in today's data-driven environment, where companies often utilize multiple software solutions to meet diverse business needs.

The technology behind Sybase R/3 includes the Sybase Adaptive Server Enterprise (ASE) database, which is known for its high performance and robustness. This database technology offers powerful transaction management capabilities, allowing for reliable data processing and storage. Sybase R/3 is designed to support a wide range of platforms, providing flexibility for organizations in their IT infrastructure choices.

Another characteristic of Sybase R/3 is its focus on user experience. The system features a user-friendly interface that enhances usability, enabling employees to navigate complex processes with relative ease. Training and onboarding for new users are simplified, reducing the time and resources needed to become proficient in the system.

Additionally, Sybase R/3 supports advanced reporting and analytical functions. These features empower organizations to gain insights from their data, facilitating informed decision-making. The ability to generate customized reports enhances visibility into business operations and performance metrics.

Security and compliance are also integral characteristics of Sybase R/3. The system incorporates robust security measures, helping organizations protect sensitive data while adhering to regulatory requirements.

In conclusion, Sybase R/3 stands out as a flexible, integrated ERP solution that leverages advanced technological frameworks to support diverse business needs. With its emphasis on modularity, user experience, integration, advanced analytics, and security, it provides a comprehensive foundation for organizations seeking to optimize their operations and achieve strategic goals.