The Howdy Glossary

Advanced Business Application Language (ABAP) is a programming language developed by SAP specifically for creating applications within its R/3 system. ABAP offers a wide range of tools and features that enable the development of complex business logic, user interfaces, and integrations with various systems. The language merges database access with both procedural and object-oriented programming elements, providing developers with considerable flexibility when building applications for SAP's ERP software and other customer solutions. Over time, ABAP has evolved to support contemporary development trends like web-based applications and cloud platforms.

ABAP was designed by SAP to allow businesses to develop customized applications seamlessly integrated with SAP's ERP software. Originating from a German multinational software corporation, the language has been continuously refined to meet developers' needs within the SAP ecosystem. It is tailored specifically to accommodate the unique requirements of SAP's ERP system while enabling customization and extension of its functionality through robust business logic, user interfaces, and integration capabilities.

Distinctive features set ABAP apart as a specialized language for developing within the SAP environment. Notably, it combines database access with procedural and object-oriented programming efficiently handles complex business logic. Built-in support for various data types, exception handling mechanisms, and integration protocols like Remote Function Call (RFC) enhances its utility. Moreover, ABAP integrates deeply with the NetWeaver ABAP application server platform foundational to many customer applications including ERP software while adopting modern paradigms such as Web Dynpro ABAP for web-based application development and platforms like SAP HANA Cloud Platform (HCP) for cloud-based solutions. This adaptability underscores its relevance in evolving technological landscapes.