SAP PI-PO is one of the most important layers of the NetWeaver Platform. It acts as a middleware between SAP and non-SAP systems and ensures communication between them. SAP PI is SAP’s Enterprise Application Integration solution. SAP PO is the enhanced version of PI; it includes not only integration but also Business Process Management (BPM) and Business Rules Management (BRM) capabilities. From a middleware perspective, message exchange and processing are the core functions of PO.
The flexibility and manageability of SAP PO is enabled by three core engines in its infrastructure. Each one takes on a different responsibility:
SAP PO is not a single component; it is a set of components that play a role in design, configuration, and runtime. The sending system is called the Sender, and the receiving system is called the Receiver. The only part of PO that communicates directly with business systems is the AEX layer. When using BPM and BRM, AEX acts as the sender/receiver system as well.
At runtime, AEX receives the message through AAE adapters, converts it into PO-XML format, and forwards it to the relevant iFlow. In the iFlow, routing and mapping steps are executed. Afterwards, the Receiver channel converts the message into the format expected by the receiving system and delivers it. Sender systems can send messages in formats such as XML, JSON, etc.
Adapters are the layer that understands and converts the “languages” spoken by different systems. Each adapter is specialized for a specific protocol/format and enables data flow to be secure, accurate, and fast.
ERP, CRM, production, e-commerce, logistics, and finance applications must work together like links in a chain. The expert who correctly connects this chain is the Integration Consultant. Not only a developer who writes code, but also a consultant who understands business units, processes, and security requirements.
At Negzel Technology, we do more than just technical integration development; with our experienced consultants, we deliver end-to-end solutions in SAP PI/PO and SAP Integration Suite projects. We secure your data with the latest standards while reflecting best practices across industries into your projects. With our focus on performance and sustainability, we not only consider today but also plan for the future.
