Behind the Scenes: Understanding SAP Fiori Architecture

SAP Fiori is more than just a sleek, modern interface , it’s a next-generation user experience that transforms how employees interact with SAP systems. With a clean, intuitive, and role-based design, Fiori simplifies complex transactions and delivers a consistent experience across desktops, tablets, and mobile devices.

But behind the simplicity lies a smart architecture that ensures flexibility, scalability, and security. Understanding this architecture helps businesses plan rollouts, streamline maintenance, and provide employees with exactly what they need no more, no less.

It powers the user layer of a modern SAP landscape one that is agile, upgrade-friendly, and future-proof. Whether deployed embedded in S/4HANA, centrally across multiple systems, or in the cloud using BTP, Fiori serves as the flexible, scalable UX foundation for the intelligent enterprise.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• The core components of SAP Fiori architecture
• Different deployment models (embedded, central hub, cloud)
• And how clean core principles shape modern SAP design

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what powers SAP Fiori and why mastering its architecture is critical for building sustainable, user-friendly SAP solutions.

The System Landscape: How Fiori Connects the Dots

At its core, SAP Fiori runs on a multi-layered architecture designed for flexibility, scalability, and performance. The primary components include:

1. SAPUI5 Applications – The Apps You See

At the heart of Fiori apps is SAPUI5, SAP’s powerful JavaScript framework. Think of it as the engine that makes apps fast, responsive, and visually consistent.

Key Points:

• Runs directly in the browser, no extra installation needed.
• Role-based access: managers see approvals, procurement staff see purchase requests, finance users see journal entries.
• Ensures simplicity and personalization: employees only see what’s relevant.

Customer Benefits:

• Faster adoption thanks to intuitive design.
• Personalized experience improves efficiency.
• Works across devices with consistent UI.

This is where the Fiori Launchpad (FLP) lives. It serves the SAPUI5 applications and handles user authentication, theming, and navigation.

2. OData Services: The Data Bridge

Fiori apps don’t talk directly to the SAP database. Instead, they use OData services to communicate with the database.

How it works:

• The app requests data via OData (e.g., “Give me the purchase order info”).
• The backend responds with exactly the data needed, in a clean format.

Why it matters:

• Lightweight and efficient data exchange.
• Secure and controlled access to business data.
• Ensures fast performance, even with complex transactions.

3. Roles & Security – Access with Confidence

Fiori’s role-based approach ensures employees see only what they’re authorized to.

• Launchpad Tiles: Display apps based on user roles.
• Backend Checks: Verify users can perform the actions they see.

Example: A “Leave Request” app is visible to all employees, but only HR staff can approve requests.

Customer Benefits:

• Compliance and data security are built-in.
• Minimizes errors from unauthorized access.
• Tailors the experience to each role.

4. Standard App Activation – Quick Start

SAP delivers hundreds of standard Fiori apps out of the box. They require activation before use:

• Technical Activation: Enable OData services and UI components.
• Functional Activation: Assign appropriate roles so users can see the app.

Customer Benefits:

• Many apps are ready to use with minimal setup.
• Reduces development time and cost.
• Quickly delivers value to end-users.

5. Custom Apps – When Standard Isn’t Enough

Sometimes business needs go beyond standard apps. Custom Fiori apps follow the same architecture: UI5 + OData + backend logic.

Customer Benefits:

• Flexibility without disrupting existing architecture.
• Supports unique business processes.
• Ensures future scalability and maintainability.

6. Fiori Launchpad – The Entry Point

The Launchpad is the homepage for all SAP tasks. It organizes apps, notifications, and personalization for a seamless experience.

Key Components:

1. Tiles & Groups: Interactive icons arranged by business area (Finance, HR, Procurement).
2. Catalogs: Collections of apps assigned to roles (users don’t see catalogs directly).
3. Target Mappings: Connect tiles to OData services and backend processes.
4. Personalization: Employees can rearrange tiles or add favorites.
5. Centralized Access: Can link SAP GUI, WebDynpro, or external URLs.

Customer Benefits:

• One place for all tasks, reducing confusion.
• Users see only what matters to them.
• Flexible and scalable for multi-device access.

 Deployment Options: Central Hub vs Embedded vs Cloud

SAP offers multiple deployment strategies depending on your system landscape and strategic goals:

1. Embedded Deployment

In this setup, the frontend (Fiori apps) and backend (SAP S/4HANA) are installed on the same system.

2. Central Hub Deployment

The frontend and Gateway components are installed on a separate server, which communicates with one or more backend systems.

3. SAP Fiori in the Cloud (SAP BTP)

SAP Fiori apps are deployed in the cloud using SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP) with connectivity to on-premise systems via Cloud Connector.

Customer benefits of having multiple deployment options,

• Flexibility to align with IT strategy.
• Optimizes performance and scalability.
• Supports future-proof, cloud-first initiatives.

Bonus: Clean Core and Side-by-Side Extensions

Modern SAP architecture encourages side-by-side extensions using Fiori apps on SAP BTP rather than modifying the core S/4HANA system. This supports the clean core strategy, allowing businesses to innovate rapidly without compromising upgrade paths.

Benefits of this model:

• Keep the backend stable and upgrade-safe
• Innovate in the cloud (faster dev cycles)
• Use advanced services like Workflow, CAP (Cloud Application Programming Model), and SAP Mobile Services

Final Thoughts

A simple way to see how Fiori works for a customer:

1. Activate Standard App → Technical + Functional Activation.
2. Assign Roles → Employees see tiles based on roles.
3. End-User Experience → Launchpad shows relevant tiles, connecting via OData to backend data.
4. Optional Custom App → Extend functionality without breaking architecture.

At its core, SAP Fiori architecture delivers a modern and intuitive user experience by combining Fiori apps, the Launchpad, and OData services with the power of backend systems like SAP S/4HANA. What makes this even more powerful today is SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP). With BTP, customers can extend standard Fiori apps, build custom applications, integrate with non-SAP systems, and manage authorizations in a secure, scalable way. Together, Fiori and BTP ensure that your SAP landscape is not only user-friendly but also flexible, future-ready, and aligned with your business needs, whether deployed on-premise, in the cloud, or in a hybrid setup.