Import and Export of a Workflow 

Use

In the Workflow Builder, you can export workflows as an XML file and import XML files. Here the meta language BPML is used in Version 0.4, with which the structure of a workflow can be described.

This function does not replace the normal transport options of workflows between SAP systems. All parts of a workflow can only be transported by the normal transport.

Features

When a workflow is exported, an XML file that contains all the content according to BPML Specification 0.4 is written. In addition, the file contains SAP-specific content that allows an improved import to SAP systems. These extended files are automatically recognized when XML files are imported.

When exporting a workflow, the following parts in particular cannot be exported according to BPML 0.4:

●      Triggering events

●      WHILE loops

●      Tasks that are referred to in steps

The task ID is exported as a SAP-specific extension. To receive an executable workflow after the import of the XML file to an SAP system, the task must be contained in this SAP system.

●      Wait steps and event creators

If a workflow contains such step types, these are replaced by empty steps during the import and the user receives a message that these steps have to be post-processed.

●      Complex conditions

●      Complex data types (for example, structures, object type references)

To receive an executable workflow after the import of the XML file to an SAP system, the exporting structures and object types must be contained in this SAP system.

●      Modeled deadline monitoring

●      Activities with more than one outcome

●      Rules and elements of the organization management that are used as responsible agents.

To receive an executable workflow after the import of the XML file to an SAP system, the rules and elements of organization management that are referenced must be contained in this SAP system.

You can display the XML file in addition to the import and export of XML files.

Activities

To export a workflow as an XML file, choose Workflow ® Import/Export ® Export to XML File in the Workflow Builder.