Imagine yourself in the business software industry using something like SAP R/3. It feels like a significant advancement in the field of business-supporting computer programmes.
Before SAP R/3, the majority of business software functioned as one gigantic computer that could do all functions, much like a large brain managing a body. It was referred to as “mainframe computing.” However, SAP R/3 altered the rules. A new method of operating was implemented, such as moving from a single brain to a more well-organized team. It divided the task into three segments rather than having a single large computer handle everything.
Three-Tier Architecture of SAP R/3
Presentation Layer:
- Consider presentation servers as the tech wizards who work behind the scenes to make things appear attractive and simple to use. These servers are comparable to the designers of the stunning interfaces and graphics you see on your screens.
- In the field of SAP, a well-known piece of business software, the presentation layer is frequently referred to as the “client layer.” You, the user, can engage with the software here. Think of it as the stage on which the drama of your work takes place.
- The word “GUI,” which stands for “Graphical User Interface,” is frequently used while dealing with SAP. It’s similar to the magic wand that simplifies complicated things. SAP software looks user-friendly and is simple to navigate thanks to GUIs. When using a desktop computer, a mobile device like a smartphone, or even your dependable laptop, GUIs are used.
In summary, presentation servers are like the artists, your stage is the presentation layer, and the GUI is the magic wand that makes using SAP seamless on a desktop, mobile device, or laptop.
Application Layer:
- Think of application servers as the ultra-sophisticated computers in an organization’s IT room. These computers, which have numerous potent processors (CPUs) and a tonne of memory (RAM) to aid in their lightning-fast thinking, act as the operation’s brains.
- The application layer is known by various names in the SAP sector, which is a major programme used by enterprises, including “Kernel Layer” and “Basic Layer.” Consider this layer to be SAP’s core.
- All the unique programmes and actions that take place when utilising SAP software now take place in this Application Layer. It resembles the hub where decisions are made.
The Application Layer’s ability to serve as a messenger is one of its unique features. It facilitates communication between the presentation layer where you see and interact with items on your screen and the database layer, which has all the vital information.
And now for the fun part: A smart employee on the application server is the “dispatcher.” The task of this person is to distribute the jobs among the various work processes. Making ensuring everyone gets their fair amount of work is similar to a traffic cop. Your SAP activities will be completed swiftly and efficiently thanks to this teamwork.
The application layer serves as SAP’s brains, application servers are like super-smart computers, and the application server dispatcher enforces traffic laws to keep everything moving. The SAP universe is like a carefully organised symphony.
Database Layer:
- Think of database servers as the large vaults at a bank, only instead of storing money, they are filled with a wealth of valuable information.
- The database layer is like the safe where all of this priceless data is housed in the world of SAP, a well-known programme that is utilised by many businesses. This data might include anything from accounting records to information related to the SAP system, as well as tables that neatly arrange everything and even the programmes that enable everything to function without a hitch.
- There are various types of database servers, including Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB/2, Siebel, Sybase, and many more. These are comparable to various safe manufacturers, each with a distinctive method for keeping items secure.
Therefore, database servers can be thought of as the fortresses that safeguard all the important data. They preserve all the data required for a business to operate efficiently, including financial information and specifics about how the SAP system works. It looks like a virtual treasure box.
Finally, we can say with SAP R/3, organisations began operating in a more organised manner, with individual components performing their tasks effectively. So try to picture a time before firms had sophisticated computer systems to assist them in their work. Without the use of computers, they were forced to complete everything by hand. But then, a miraculous thing took place.
Businesses started employing computer systems to organise their work, which was a significant advancement. This changed the entire game! As a result their work became a lot simpler and more effective. The majority of their duties and tasks may now be handled by computers. In layman’s words, it was similar to having a super-smart assistant that could do a sizable portion of the work instead of completing everything by hand. This innovation was significant and greatly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations.