SAP best practices · LessonBy Arjun, SAP Solution Architect · Published · Updated · SAP S/4HANA 2023 · all levels
SAP Coding standards
Coding standards keep ABAP (and other) code correct, performant, secure and maintainable, essential because custom code is where most problems and upgrade pain originate.
Quick answer
Custom code runs in the hottest paths and is what breaks on upgrades.
Key takeaways
- Follow performance rules (no SELECT-in-loop; efficient internal tables).
- Write object-oriented, small, single-purpose methods; clear naming.
- Be null-safe and handle errors via class-based exceptions.
- Watch out: a standard that no check enforces is a suggestion, and suggestions decay.
Key practices
- Follow performance rules (no SELECT-in-loop; efficient internal tables).
- Write object-oriented, small, single-purpose methods; clear naming.
- Be null-safe and handle errors via class-based exceptions.
- Write ABAP Unit tests; use static checks (ATC/Code Inspector).
- Extend, don’t modify, standard, use enhancements/BAdIs and clean-core techniques.
Why it matters
Custom code runs in the hottest paths and is what breaks on upgrades. Disciplined, tested, clean-core-compliant code is far easier to maintain, performs well, and survives upgrades, the difference between an asset and a liability.
Common pitfalls
- Skipping the discipline under delivery pressure.
- Not documenting decisions.
- Ignoring the clean-core principle.
Practice challenge
+0 XPStreak ×0
Question 1 of 3
Which statement is true of Coding standards?