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BW Bridge Modernization

1. Architecture​

A practical bridge pattern is:

SAP BW / BW/4HANA → BW bridge → shared remote tables → Datasphere spaces → semantic/analytical models → consumers

The bridge supplies BW-oriented capabilities while Datasphere supplies cloud data modeling and integration around those assets.

2. Conversion options​

SAP documentation describes tool-supported paths including shell conversion and remote conversion. Shell conversion transfers metadata objects such as DataStore objects, InfoObjects, transformations, and DTPs, but does not transfer existing data records.

Remote conversion can transfer metadata and business data according to the supported conversion process.

Always validate the current supported source release, object type, restrictions, and conversion notes before execution.

3. Operating model​

Separate responsibilities:

  • BW bridge team: BW objects, bridge administration, conversion controls.
  • Datasphere team: spaces, sharing, semantic modeling, integration, consumption.
  • Business owners: reconciliation and semantic acceptance.
  • Platform team: security, lifecycle, observability, capacity.

4. Anti-pattern​

Do not place every legacy BW object into bridge simply because conversion is possible. Conversion is a technical mechanism, not an architecture decision.

5. Exit criteria​

A bridge workload can be considered for native Datasphere refactoring only when its business semantics, delta behavior, performance, security, and consumer dependencies are understood.