🔹 ABAP (Advanced Business Application Programming)

• What it is: A high-level programming language created by SAP.

• Purpose: Used to develop applications on the SAP NetWeaver platform.

• Typical Use: Building reports, interfaces, extensions, forms, workflows (RICEF objects).

• Environment: Runs on traditional SAP ERP systems (like SAP ECC).

• Database: Can work with any supported relational database (Oracle, MSSQL, etc.).

🔹 ABAP on HANA (or ABAP for SAP HANA)

• What it is: ABAP optimized for SAP HANA, an in-memory database.

• Why it matters:

  • Focuses on performance optimization.

  • Uses HANA-native features like CDS Views, AMDP (ABAP Managed DB Procedures), and code pushdown to the database layer.

• Platform: Typically used in S/4HANA systems.

• Goal: Develop faster, smarter, and more efficient applications using HANA’s in-memory processing.

Key Differences:

If you’re planning training or career planning:

• Freshers: Can start with ABAP basics, then upgrade to ABAP on HANA.

• Working professionals or project-based learning: Focus on ABAP on HANA and real-time use cases.