Integration Types

Integration via the CRM Middleware

The CRM Middlewareis part of SAPCRM and supports mutual replication, synchronization and distribution of data that is exchanged between CRM and other systems (particularly mySAP ERP , e.g. RM-CA or SD). It links different producers of data (mobile clients, SAP back-end, Business Information Warehouse, APO and CRM server applications) and provides all connected systems with the information required.

The main section is provided by the CRM server. Additional Middleware components are required for a mobile scenario: A communication station and the Connection Handler for mobile clients.

Synchronization takes place without a time delay (synchronous data transfer). If the respective other system is not available, data synchronization takes place subsequently (asynchronous data transfer) and does not affect work in the system.

CRM Middleware also performs the initial download of data to the CRM System, which takes place once during migration.

Additional information on CRM Middleware is available in the Help Portal : help.sap.com under Start of the navigation path Documentation Next navigation step mySAP Business Suite Next navigation step Customer Relationship Management Next navigation step SAP CRM 3.1 Next navigation step Basis Technology Next navigation step CRM Middleware End of the navigation path and under Installation and Customizing for Integration Landscapes .

Integration via Application Link Enabling (ALE) and IDoc interfaces

ALE is an integration technology used to create and run distributed applications. The basic concept of ALE is to provide a distributed but integrated SAP installation. This includes commercially controlled output exchange, which retains consistent data for SAP application systems that are linked loosely. Application integration uses synchronous and asynchronous communication instead of a central database. ALE has three layers:

  • Application services

  • Distribution services

  • Communication services

Additional information on Application Link Enabling (ALE) is available in the ALE Programming Guide .

IDoc Interface:

The IDoc (Intermediate Document) interface is an Application Link Enabling function. Formats (IDoc types, previously: intermediate structures) and methods (port descriptions) for electronic data exchange between SAP Systems and partner systems are defined in the IDoc interfaces.

Partner systems include:

  • EDI sub-system

  • Other SAP system

  • Third-party software (such as an external billing system)

ALE or IDoc technology is required in the integration landscape to connect the RM-CA System to an external billing system.

For more information on IDoc interfaces, see the following sections: