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Enterprise Data Insight
DDR Functional Guide
A clear, practical guide to Dynamic Data Replicator functionality across SAP landscapes, including architecture, replication options, controls, and operational governance.
ONLINE PRODUCT GUIDE
Synchronise SAP data in your non production systems
DDR helps you rapidly create non production systems, reduce footprint during refresh, copy selected data on demand, and scramble sensitive data for security. The outcome is relevant, up to date data for production support, testing and training.
Typical outcomes
- Faster system and client preparation
- Smaller non production footprint
- Controlled data subsets
- Improved compliance with scrambling
Who uses DDR
- SAP Basis and platform teams
- Functional leads and test managers
- Security and data protection stakeholders
Tip: Use the chapters on the left, then flip pages using Previous and Next.
CHAPTER 1
What is DDR
What it does
DDR is a suite of intelligent SAP data replication tools designed to ensure that a subset of production data is readily available on non production systems. It enables rapid creation of non production systems, reduced footprint during refresh, selective on demand replication, and data scrambling to enhance security and GDPR alignment.
Typical use case
A delivery team needs reliable data every sprint. DDR standardises refresh delivery and provides controlled scope, so environments stay current, usable, and compliant without repeatedly rebuilding or copying unnecessary history.
Why it matters
You get the data you need, when you need it, while reducing operational effort and improving governance across the landscape.
Key benefits
- Up to date and relevant data for testing, training, and production support
- Reduced non production footprint through selective replication
- Improved security in lower systems with scrambling
- Better operational control with templates, monitoring, and reporting
CHAPTER 2
Central Console
Central hub for administration and monitoring Web Dynpro ABAP
What it is
The DDR Central Console administers and monitors system builds and data refreshes. It is designed for deployment on an SAP ABAP stack, ideally on SAP Solution Manager, and is delivered as a Web Dynpro ABAP application accessible via standard browsers such as Chrome or Edge.
Typical use case
A central Basis team supports multiple project streams and runs frequent refresh cycles for UAT, training, and regression. The Central Console provides a single place to control executions, improve visibility, and maintain consistent governance.
Key benefits
- Single point of control across systems and clients
- Improved visibility, governance, and operational repeatability
- Reduced delivery risk through standardised execution
CHAPTER 3
Administration: Connections
What it is
The Connections application registers and connects the Central Console to source and target systems. Administrators define connection names for systems so delivery teams can reliably select the correct landscape endpoints for replication.
Typical use case
An organisation runs multiple programmes and environments. Connections provide governed endpoints so refresh runs remain controlled, auditable, and consistent across multiple source and target systems.
Key benefits
- Streamlined management of replication across multiple systems
- Reduced targeting risk through clear identification of source and target
- Foundation for reusable templates and standard delivery
CHAPTER 4
Administration: Template
What it is
The Template application helps customers design the replication process. A template captures the source system, target system, business objects to be replicated, filter conditions for data selection, and scrambling options for security. Templates are reusable and can be exported and imported to promote standardisation across teams.
Typical use case
A release train needs the same refresh pattern every two weeks. Templates ensure the same scope, rules, and controls are used each time, reducing rework and variability between environments.
Key benefits
- Repeatable refresh delivery with consistent scope and outcomes
- Faster execution by reusing proven patterns
- Improved governance through standardised filtering and scrambling rules
CHAPTER 5
Administration: Shell Build
What it is
Shell Build exports system table data and repository from an SAP system to create a new shell SAP system. It leverages SAP system copy processes and provides scheduling so you can exclude all application data during the system copy. The resulting target contains repository and system tables while excluding application data including master and transactional data.
Typical use case
A programme needs a clean baseline for training or testing without carrying years of production history. Shell Build creates the right technical foundation, then DDR refresh applications can populate only what is needed.
Key benefits
- Creates clean non production systems without unnecessary application data
- Improves provisioning speed and reduces storage requirements
- Supports controlled population of relevant data afterwards
CHAPTER 6
Administration: System Build
What it is
System Build helps customers build new test or training systems that replicate production configurations. It enables creation of a replica system that closely mirrors production configuration and settings, improving reliability for testing and training.
Typical use case
You are starting a major test cycle and need a lower system that matches production configuration. System Build reduces configuration drift and provides a consistent base for project delivery.
Key benefits
- High configuration fidelity to production
- More reliable testing and training outcomes
- Reduced environment preparation effort
CHAPTER 7
Administration: Client Build
What it is
Client Build creates new clients within test or lower environments that closely resemble the production client. It uses the standard SAP profile SAP_UCSV to include both customising settings and user master records.
Typical use case
A UAT client must be created quickly for a release window. Client Build accelerates the creation process and helps ensure that users and configuration align with production expectations.
Key benefits
- Faster client provisioning for UAT and training
- Consistent configuration and user setup aligned to production
- Reduced post refresh manual work
CHAPTER 8
Administration: Delete
What it is
Data Deletion gives technical teams control over the content of the target system by selectively removing transactional and or master data. This improves control and helps align non production environments with changing business needs.
Typical use case
Before a new refresh, the target environment must be cleaned to prevent conflicts and to reduce the data footprint. Data Deletion supports cleaner, more predictable outcomes.
Key benefits
- Cleaner targets for reliable refresh outcomes
- Reduced storage footprint and lower operational overhead
- Improved control over what remains in lower environments
CHAPTER 9
Utilities
What it is
DDR Utilities provide supporting tools required for SAP data refresh. This includes Pattern utilities for data scrambling, Business Object utilities for custom relationships, Table Exclusion utilities to omit tables from refresh, and Number Range Buffer utilities to extend number ranges after refresh activities.
Typical use case
A customer needs to tailor a refresh to match business requirements, protect sensitive fields, and ensure operational continuity after refresh. Utilities provide the controls and flexibility to deliver a governed outcome.
Key benefits
- Greater control over scope, rules, and table handling
- Improved security through configurable scrambling patterns
- Reduced post refresh issues through exclusions and number range management
CHAPTER 10
Wizard apps overview
What it is
DDR enables rapid preparation of non production SAP systems using three core wizard applications: Time Based Refresh, Object Based Refresh, and Full System Refresh. Each wizard supports different delivery needs, from minimal deltas to full replication with optional scrambling.
Typical use case
A delivery team chooses the right refresh method based on the test objective. Time based for keeping systems current, object based for scenario replication, and full system copy for high fidelity rehearsals.
Key benefits
- Right refresh approach for the purpose and risk profile
- Improved control over scope, data volume, and timing
- Consistent outcomes aligned with governance and security needs
CHAPTER 11
Time Based refresh
What it is
Time Based Refresh replicates data from production to a target environment for a specified time period. Administrators define the date range and select specific business objects for replication within that range, reducing data volume and optimising runtime. Delta capabilities can be enabled and scheduled based on business requirements.
Typical use case
Keep QA current by copying only recent business activity such as the last 30, 60, or 90 days, instead of copying full history.
Key benefits
- Lower footprint by avoiding unnecessary history
- Faster refresh windows and reduced system load
- Relevant, up to date data for testing and training
CHAPTER 12
Object Based refresh
What it is
Object Based Refresh enables business users and administrators to replicate specific transaction or master data from production to non production environments. Users define the objects and configure granular filtering so only the required subsets are copied.
Typical use case
Reproduce a specific defect or business scenario by copying only the relevant customers, materials, and documents to the target system.
Key benefits
- Granular control and better data relevancy for testing
- Reduced risk by excluding irrelevant or sensitive data
- Faster preparation for issue resolution and validation
CHAPTER 13
Full system copy
What it is
Full System Copy performs a complete replication of a production environment to a non production environment, including transaction and master data. Administrators can enable additional options such as data scrambling to support security and compliance requirements.
Typical use case
High fidelity rehearsal for complex testing, training, or troubleshooting where completeness matters and configuration must match production.
Key benefits
- Realistic environment for complex validation and training
- Optional scrambling for non production security
- Reduces manual rebuild effort for major delivery phases
CHAPTER 14
Data scrambling
What it is
Data scrambling in Dynamic Data Replicator protects sensitive SAP data when it is copied into non production environments. Personally identifiable information and confidential values are automatically transformed while maintaining structural consistency.
Uniform scrambling ensures that if a value such as a customer number or tax identifier appears in multiple tables, it is scrambled in the same way everywhere. This preserves referential integrity and allows realistic testing and reporting.
Typical use case
A QA or training system requires production like data, but personal, financial, or HR information must be protected to meet GDPR and internal security policies.
Key benefits
- Consistent scrambled values across related SAP tables
- Preserves data relationships for realistic testing
- Reduces security and compliance risk in non production
- Supports audit and regulatory requirements
Obfuscation example
Active scrambling
Field name
Production source
QA / Test target
STCD1 (Tax ID)
102-334-9981
882-XXX-XXXX
NAME1 (Customer)
Johnathan Miller
Scrambled_User_992
BANKN (Bank account)
8820019223
0000000000
Example showing SAP personal and financial data automatically scrambled when replicated from production into QA or test systems using Dynamic Data Replicator.
CHAPTER 15
Process dashboard
What it is
The DDR Dashboard initiates and manages export and replication activities defined by administrators and functional users. It supports simulation runs, execute, run parameters such as package size and work processes, schedule settings, pause job, and reporting to track progress and outcomes.
Typical use case
A refresh is required overnight. The Dashboard provides a practical operational cockpit to run, control, schedule, and evidence replication without manual coordination across multiple tools.
Key benefits
- Single operational view to run and control replication
- Improved reliability through parameters, scheduling, and pause control
- Clear status and reporting for governance and stakeholder confidence
CHAPTER 16
Simulation run
What it is
Simulation Run previews the replication process without executing it. DDR generates a simulated replication report showing how data will be replicated and what changes will occur in the target system, enabling validation before execution.
Typical use case
Before running a high impact refresh, the team validates scope, identifies potential conflicts, and confirms the expected outcome for sign off.
Key benefits
- Reduces risk by identifying issues before execution
- Supports planning and sign off with clear previews
- Helps optimise configuration and replication strategy
CHAPTER 17
Notifications
What it is
DDR Notifications provide real time insight into export job status changes. It notifies teams when exports start and successfully complete. In the event of failure, it sends informative emails with details of the export and the reasons for failure to support fast resolution.
Typical use case
Overnight refresh runs must complete before business hours. Notifications alert the right people only when attention is required, reducing manual monitoring and downtime risk.
Key benefits
- Operational transparency from start to finish
- Faster issue response using clear failure context
- Reduced downtime and improved delivery confidence
CHAPTER 18
Scheduling
What it is
DDR Schedule enables customers to tailor exports to meet changing business requirements. Jobs can be scheduled for specific times, including weekends, with real time notifications on status. For data refresh tasks, delta copy schedules can run at set times or daily, weekly, or monthly depending on need.
Typical use case
Keep test environments aligned without disrupting the day. Run deltas out of hours and maintain a predictable delivery cadence for teams.
Key benefits
- Automation that aligns to operational windows
- Predictable delivery cadence for agile and release cycles
- Improved control with flexible schedules and deltas
CHAPTER 19
Reports
What it is
DDR Reports provide a full data log so you can identify the contents of a specific export ID and understand export outcomes. Estimation and sizing insights can be based on simulation results, including table count and size. Reports also show who initiated the export, where it ran, duration, and table sizing to support accountability and optimisation.
Typical use case
Before a major test window, the team needs confidence on run time and volume. Estimation reports support planning, governance, and stakeholder updates.
Key benefits
- Improved planning using volume and sizing insight
- Clear audit trail for execution accountability
- Optimisation opportunities based on actual outcomes
CHAPTER 20
Monitoring
What it is
DDR Monitoring tracks the replication process and provides detailed logs end to end. Activities are shown for source and target separately, giving visibility into each stage and the percentage completed. Logs support troubleshooting and audit requirements by providing transparency and accountability.
Typical use case
A refresh is running and stakeholders need status. Monitoring provides clear progress indicators and detailed logs for rapid diagnosis if an issue occurs.
Key benefits
- Clear progress visibility across source and target stages
- Faster troubleshooting using detailed logs
- Stronger governance through transparent evidence
CHAPTER 21
Support and contact
Support model
Enterprise Data Insight provides support via phone and email for issues relating to use of DDR procedures and software. Support requests are acknowledged within 24 hours when offices are closed or staff are unavailable. Where needed, code improvements or patches may be provided. Customers with active maintenance receive updates and repairs in line with the maintenance agreement and can choose when to apply improvements.
Training
Training is available at the EDI training centre or on your premises in your SAP environment, with regional availability including the UK, USA, and Australia.
Contact
Email: info@edatainsight.com
Support: support@edatainsight.com
Website: edatainsight.com
How Dynamic Data Replicator functionality supports delivery teams
Dynamic Data Replicator functionality is designed to reduce the time and risk of preparing SAP non production environments. Instead of repeating manual refresh steps, teams use reusable templates, governed connections, and controlled replication options. This makes refresh delivery more predictable for UAT, training, regression, and production support.
Client refresh control
- Standardise how refresh is requested, executed, and evidenced
- Reduce post refresh rework and inconsistency
- Support approval and governance workflows
Selective replication
- Time based refresh to keep only the periods you need
- Object based refresh to reproduce scenarios and defects
- Lower footprint with controlled scope
Security by design
- Data scrambling for PII protection in lower environments
- Reduce exposure risk during testing and training
- Support audit and reporting expectations
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