DDR System Build – Step-by-Step

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to executing a System Build in DDR, enabling SAP teams to create a structured shell system using file-based export. By selecting the correct connection, target database, and configuration, users can generate export files for building consistent, production-aligned SAP environments using Software Provisioning Manager.

DDR Shell Build Guide

System Build – Step-by-Step Guide

The Dynamic Data Replicator (DDR) System Build application helps SAP teams create a lightweight shell system by exporting system table data and repository-related information from a source SAP system. The generated export files can then be used with SAP Software Provisioning Manager to build a clean shell environment for testing, training, development, or project preparation.

This guide explains how to start a new System Build, select the correct file-based connection, choose the target database platform, and trigger the export process from the DDR Central Console.

Step 1 and Step 2: Access Shell Build and Click New

DDR Shell Build screen showing New button

Go to the DDR Central Console, select Shell, then click New to initiate a new Shell Build activity.

Step 3 to Step 6: Select System Build, Connection, Target Database, and Create

DDR System Build screen showing connection and target database selection

Select System Build, choose the file-based connection, select the target database platform, then click Create to start the export process.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Access the Shell Build Application

Go to the DDR Central Console and select Shell from the left-hand navigation menu.

Step 2: Initiate a New Shell Build

On the Shell Build screen, click New to open the Shell Build selection window.

Step 3: Choose System Build

Select System Build to begin the system-level shell build process.

Step 4: Configure the Connection

Select the appropriate File-Based connection that has already been configured for the System Build process.

Step 5: Select the Target Database

Choose the required target database platform, such as HANA, Oracle, DB2, MS SQL, Sybase, MaxDB, DB4, or DB6.

Step 6: Start the Export Process

Click Create to start the export job. DDR will generate the system build export files based on the selected configuration.

Step 7: Build the Shell System

Use the export files generated by DDR with SAP Software Provisioning Manager to create the shell system. This allows the target system to be built with the required system-level structure while avoiding unnecessary application data.

Technical Notes

The System Build process depends on the correct file-based connection setup. The logical file path must be available and accessible from the SAP application server, and the selected target database should match the planned shell system build. DDR records the job details, source logical system, target logical system, database type, timestamp, and execution messages so the Basis team can monitor the progress from the Shell Build screen.

Important Guidance

Before running System Build, confirm the connection, file path, database platform, authorisations, storage availability, and SAP Basis prerequisites. The export files should be handled securely and used only within the approved system build process.