Friday Question: Best Interview Questions
For this week's installment, I'm asking for questions (what?).
If you were to interview somebody for a job in your domain (and I know that many of you probably do interview people), what are some key questions you would ask?
I'm always disappointed in job interviews when I just get asked the same go-to questions: Would you rather work on a team or alone? Name a problem you experienced. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Blah. Those kinds of questions only reflect negatively on the company, I think. Sure, a few might be necessary, but the answers are so generic that it really doesn't teach the interviewer anything about a person.
What would you ask somebody applying for a job in your field? How would you determine whether or not somebody is a a capable programmer? What traits about a person do you think are important to learn about before hiring them? How do you learn them in the limited time an interviewer has? You don't actually have to be in a position to interview people to answer this question: If it was your job, what questions would you want to ask?
Anyway, just a distracting discussion for a Friday. Respond if you want, don't if you, um, don't. Either way, have a lovely weekend!
Entry Level:
Why are you here? (as in why did you become a programmer)
Explain to me what recursion is, elaborate on what the benefits are and the pitfalls.
Give me at least 3 looping structures in any language.
What was your favorite class and why? (this better be a class in your area of study and not underwater basket weaving)
Did you work in a team project?
What was your role?
What was the outcome?
What observations do you have about your team interaction?
How were conflicts resolved?
What would you do differently now?
What are your career goals?
Experienced W/O college degree:
Why do you want to work here?
How long do you want to continue in development--what's your career goals?
Explain to me what recursion is and elaborate on what the benefits are and the pitfalls.
Give me at least 3 looping structures in any language.
What was the your greatest success?
What was your greatest flop?
If you could go back and do anything differently what would it be?
Experienced with college degree:
Why do you want to work here?
What was your most significant area of study?
How long do you want to continue in development--what's your career goals?
Explain to me what recursion is and elaborate on what the benefits are and the pitfalls.
Give me at least 3 looping structures in any language.
What was the your greatest success?
What was your greatest flop?
If you could go back and do anything differently what would it be?
Early on in my career I was able to finally convince the people that I worked for that they had to ask technical people at least some technical questions--you'd be amazed at how many "programmers" cannot name at least 3 different kinds of loops in any language.
Similar Messages
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im looking to buy a iphone 4 preferably not the iphone 4S bcuz i find it kind of pointless but is there places selling the iphone 4 where black friday rates do apply bcuz ive bought a ipod 3g the year it came out on a black friday website
Hi chimpmanzee,
I hope you have had a great weekend thus far.
It seems like the idea of offering early access to Black Friday deals is being more widely utilized this year. Based on our Price Match Guarantee, we do not price match during the Black Friday weekend and we do not match a competitor's price that is offered during a special event or items that are of limited quantities. With that being said, we would be unable to match Amazon's prices as part of their early Black Friday access.
Best Buy Price Match Guarantee
Thank you for posting your question to the forum, and let us know if you have any other questions!
Derek|Social Media Specialist | Best Buy® Corporate
Private Message -
Why Not Use WHEN OTHERS - Friday Question
There are several people on this forum that abhor use of WHEN OTHERS in the same vein as GOTO (which really is a bad practice). I have an open mind and am looking for the reason it should be avoided.
When used to output the state during unexpected exceptions, WHEN OTHES can dramatically reduce debug time. The only bad exception handler is WHEN OTHERS THEN NULL. Error logging to a table is important and should include the back trace and call stack in addition to listing pertinent parameter, constant and variable values. I consider this debug instrumentation. If you write perfect code or you don't have end users that are very creative in finding bugs that occur because of the convoluted way they get to the code that causes the error you don't need it. Or you like the thrill of the hunt going slogging through thousands of lines of code to try to figure out what caused the error. I am lazy and want to have it spelled out for me. Below is my error logging table (CODE is a session level transaction identifier used for filtering) and my error logging procedure is equivalent to DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE. This makes it easy to take other people's code and replace DBMS_OUTPUT with my error logging. This becomes very useful for debugging triggers since there is no standard output device.
CREATE TABLE SUPPORT.MESSAGE_LOGS
CODE INTEGER NOT NULL,
TEXT VARCHAR2(4000 BYTE) NOT NULL,
CREATED_ON TIMESTAMP(6) NOT NULL,
CREATED_BY VARCHAR2(100 BYTE) NOT NULL,
OSUSER VARCHAR2(100 BYTE),
MACHINE VARCHAR2(100 BYTE),
PROGRAM VARCHAR2(100 BYTE),
BACK_TRACE CLOB,
CALL_STACK CLOB
Typical insert is:
INSERT INTO message_logs (
code,
text,
created_on,
created_by,
osuser,
machine,
program,
back_trace,
call_stack )
VALUES (
utilities.get_xaction_sequence,
pv_text,
SYSTIMESTAMP,
UPPER ( utilities.get_session_user ),
UPPER ( utilities.get_osuser ),
UPPER ( utilities.get_machine ),
UPPER ( utilities.get_program ),
DBMS_UTILITY.format_error_backtrace,
DBMS_UTILITY.format_call_stack
Typical error text:
ERROR in UTILITIES.CREATE_FILE: ORA-29280: invalid directory path
Directory = FILEDIR
File Name = _Revoke_From_COGNOS_ALL_Script19-MAR-12.SQL
Linesize = 32000
Text - 1st chacters = -- File created on 19-Mar-2012 11:16:38Hoek wrote:
C'mon Ed, now shirley you must have an opinion regarding the use of WHEN OTHERS?
Feel free to share it with us
My opinion is that I hate it when an application -- any application, under any framework, in any language -- swallows an error message. As to getting into the weeds of WHEN OTHERS, I tend to agree that it should be avoided but am open to arguments for exceptions. Does that sound like waffling? It's not intended to be. Here's where I have to make a confession. When I transitioned from the role of "developer" (we called them "programmer/analyst" then) to dba, my shop was also transitioning from IBM's IMS database (hierarchical) to relational databases - first DB2, then as client-sever architecture came in they settled on Oracle as the C/S database. Because I was viewed as an "early adopter" and had been doing some development work on our first client-server apps, I was tagged to become our first Oracle DBA. (My first oracle db was v7.3 on Win 3.11) As a result of that path, I never really got heavily into development with PL/SQL. I can do OK on individual procedures - mostly for one-off or stand-alone use. But I never developed that mental framework and toolbox of procedures that only comes with working heavily in a language.
Don't call me Shirley -
Best Buy 100% Price Match Guarantee FAIL for Elite Plus member!!!
So during the Black Friday weekend I purchased a Dyson vacuum at a store. I understand that Best Buy does not match pricing DURING Black Friday weekend. So on 12/15 Amazon had the vacuum on sale for $26 less than what I paid. Again, this is not Black Friday weekend but the item was purchased over Black Friday weekend. So I called in for Best Buy to match the price. I spoke with someone who seemed like temp help. It did not sound like she was in a call center and she didn't know much and seemed to be IM'n with someone to get answers. After initially telling me they would not match the price because the item was purchased during Black Friday I explained that it was no longer Black Friday and Best Buy policy does not obsolve them from matching prices for the next 5-6 weeks (the return date is 1/15/2015) from all items purchased over Black Friday weekend. If so, no one would buy during Black Friday. She said she would submit the price match and I would get an email letting me know if it has been approved. I was patient and waited 2 weeks and nothing. I called back and was told that the price match department was swamped and to please be patient. So I waited till today to call back for the return date is in 2 days and still no price match email. I am now being told that Best Buy only matches their own pricing if not at the time of sale AND they only match the price that same day when they can confirm the price. (which makes sense) I'm also being told my price match was never sent to the correct department so it has been sitting in case # purgatory for the past month. Why is any of this my fault?! I spend over $3500 per year, year after year and I'm supposed to get 'Elite' service. I know more than the people I'm speaking with on the phone! I called in with a legit lower price, waited patiently for Best Buy to match, have now spoken with 3 different reps, been told something different each time about the price match policy (every time they were wrong) and now I'm being told because it wasn't matched when they could confirm the price they won't match the price?! What am I missing?!
Total Price Match FAIL for Elite Plus member!!! I can only image how people that aren't Elite are treated! :-)Dear iamkraz,
Thank you for bringing us your business this holiday and for your continued loyalty to us as a My Best Buy Elite Plus customer. I am sorry if your recent experience has left you disappointed after the service you received. I would be happy to help clarify this for you.
Per our Price Match Guarantee, “At the time of sale, we price match all local retail competitors (including their online prices) and we price match products shipped from and sold by these major online retailers: Amazon.com, Bhphotovideo.com, Crutchfield.com, Dell.com, HP.com, Newegg.com, and TigerDirect.com.” The only price match we would perform after the initial time of sale would be to a lower price in store or on BestBuy.com during your respective Return & Exchange period. You should have been provided with this as the reason for not receiving the price match when you were speaking with our support teams.
My apologies for any confusion this caused. I would like to get some more details from you about the conversations you had so I may properly document this here at the corporate level for coaching and training. Please check your private messages by clicking on the envelope in the upper right-hand corner while you are logged into the forums.
Regards,
JD|Social Media Specialist | Best Buy® Corporate
Private Message -
IPad Mini pre-order...going to be available at Best Buy???
Is the iPad mini going to be available for pre-order on Friday at Best Buy?
Hello all,
At this time there is no plan to offer pre-orders for either the 4th generation iPad or the iPad minis. Please check back to BestBuy.com regularly for up-to-date availability on all Apple products.
Cheers,
Douglas|Social Media Specialist | Best Buy® Corporate
Private Message -
Macbook Pro 13" Retina Display uneven color distribution
Bought a 13" retina MBP 2 weeks ago and one day after, I realized that the display's color is unequally distributed. The left side of the screen, near the edge has a "blueish" stripe and the low middle area is "yellowish".
I'm really disappointed as this is not acceptable for a high-quality (and high priced) product like Macbook Pro but it seems that I cannot do anything for it.
I'm living in Vietnam, where there's no official Apple Store or Apple Service Center. There're two Apple Authorized Service Center available, though. However, one of them said they are not ready for the retina products, at least I have to wait to Jan 2013. Another center after some screen tests, which display different color patterns on-screen, with dirrect connection to Apple Server, they concluded that there's no problem with the screen. What the ****? I and all my friends can spot the coloring problem of the screen, so why did they say it's not problem?
I tried to call Apple Support on a dedicated line (1-201-0288, then 800-708-5413) but I always got a messgage telling me to try again. When I tried again and again, I cannot say I heard it properly but I think it said I was trying too much in one-hour period. What can I do now?
I'm disappointed, Apple!Many people that get Samsung retina displays have complained of such a 'tint' problem - the others, who have LG models, complain of image retention.
I don't know what to tell you to do at this point - if the service center isn't 'ready' to service Retina models, I suppose that you'll just have to wait. Calling AppleCare would have been my first suggestion, but you've already tried that and still no joy.
I imagine that the AppleCare folks in the US are busy with all of the 'Black Friday' questions being slung at them - maybe Monday would be a better time to try to get through.
Sorry that you're having problems - take a look at the "More Like This" to the right --->>> and look, particularly, at the "Macbook pro Retina display burn-in?" discussion.
Clinton -
Hello,
since tehcnically it's still friday in some far-western timezone, I feel entitled to ask a friday question:
What is the cultural reference (probably, of US origin) when a code sample mentions "acme" as a company name (often in package namespace com.acme.xxx, or as the example name of some company supposedly managed by the code).
Although Wikipedia has entries to describe the etymology and history of the venerable foo and bar variable names, I haven't found such an entry for acme
The only reference I know of is the cartoon Roadrunner : all devices bought by the evil coyotte come in "acme"-stamped boxes.
Do you think it's the case (that computer scientists inspire from Roadrunner)?
Even then, where did the cartooners themselves coin this name?
Thanks,
JeromePeter Lawrey wrote:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acme_Corporation
Damn, I don't know how I missed that... I must have searched for "amce" (I mispelled that twice when I was writing the OP this morning).
Thanks for pointing this out. Note that the Wikipedia page indeed attributes the creation of this fictional company to Loney Tunes cartoons.
sja wrote:
The way I heard it was that ACME stands for A Company that Makes Everything.
I'm a bit surprised the Wikipedia article doesn't mention that theory. Would need a reliable source I guess.Interestingly, the French Wikipedia page does mention this acronym :o)
Using those words as a search term, I found a lot of collaborative sites that spell out this meaning or a derivative (Another Company..., American company,...).
YoungWinston wrote:
I particularly liked the observation that: "While their products leave much to be desired, Acme delivery service is second to none".Yes ;)
Also linked from the Wikipedia page, is a parodic complaint (plaintiff Will E Coyote, against defendant "ACME Corporation"): http://www.torinfo.com/justforlaughs/coyote_v_acme.html:
The sequence of collisions resulted in systemic physical damage to Mr. Coyote, (...) The distracting and embarassing nature of this symptom has been a major impediment to Mr. Coyote's pursuit of a normal social life (...)
As the Court is no doubt aware, Defendant has a virtual monopoly of manufacture and sale of goods required by Mr. Coyote's work. It is our contention that Defendant has used its market advantage to the detriment of the consumer of such specialized products as itching powder, giant kites, Burmese tiger traps, anvils, and two-hundred-foot-long rubber bands (...)
Mr. Coyote respectfully requests that the Court (...) censure Defendant (...) and reaffirm the right of the individual predator to equal protection under the law. -
Hello, I just bought a new HP laptop MODEL: 2000-219DX last week Friday from best buy but apparently the battery never took charge. I contacted the HP technical support and after some troubleshooting and testing the battery they advised me to take it in for service. I live in the Bahamas and the laptop is still under warranty, therefore I'm not able to bring it back there. What can I do to resolve this situation?
Hello Ruvane,
Sorry to hear that you have an issue with your battery. If you have done troubleshooting with HP and it was determined that the battery is defective, HP will normally send a replacement battery. I am confused by your statement that you were advised to take to a service center. Additionally, I am concerned that the you are having an issue with a new notebook. I will send you a private email in which I will request additional information.
Regards, -
Dear Readers:
I hope you can help me to debug an error I am getting on install of both the Oracle 9i database (9.2.0.1.0) and the Oracle9iAS Release 1 (V1.0.2.2). After the database install is complete I am getting the following error on the start up of the HTTP Service:
[Fri Jul 12 22:59:38 2002] [crit] (10045)The attempted operation is not supported for the type of object referenced: Parent: WSADuplicateSocket failed for socket 1028.
[Fri Jul 12 22:59:38 2002] [error] master_main: create child process failed. Exiting.
[Fri Jul 12 23:00:38 2002] [error] forcing termination of child #0 (handle 1256)
[Fri Jul 12 23:08:28 2002] [crit] (10045)The attempted operation is not supported for the type of object referenced: Parent: WSADuplicateSocket failed for socket 1092.
[Fri Jul 12 23:08:28 2002] [error] master_main: create child process failed. Exiting.
[Fri Jul 12 23:09:28 2002] [error] forcing termination of child #0 (handle 1320)
As far as I know I am taking care to uninstall according to the documentation and reinstall; however, I am still getting the same errors. I hope someone can help with this very urgent request, as I have a demo to show a client next Friday.
Bests,
HarjeetI was just able to get it working on mine on a VMMR2 Cluster (hyper-v on 2012 and 2012 R2 hosts with the same success) and the Service Template using a VM template with Server 2008R2 Enterprise. I don't know if you did the same steps but:
created a fresh VM in VMM - install Virtual Guest Services.
convert that VM to a VM Template - VMM then copies the VM files to a location on your VMM Library.
create Service template using the new VM template - with no services.
I've had problems in the past with trying to convert a VM to a template, and the VM would fail at the 'Fix up differencing disks' .. It wasn't until I did a fresh install instead of trying to convert a VM copy of a copy of a copy of a V2V migration..
Mine completes successfully but with an error couldn't install Virtual Guest Services when they are already installed. hmmm.. The VM/Service is running fine however.
---------------------------- Error I got -------------------------------
Error (13233)
Unable to install Virtual Guest Services on virtual machine TEST_SERVICE. The Hyper-V Integration Services setup exited with error code 60001.
Recommended Action
For more information, refer to the Hyper-V documentation for virtual machine integration services at
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=118036 and then try the operation again. -
ThinkPad USB 3.0 Secure Hard Drive
Hi all,
I have just bought brand new (April 2013) external USB 3.0 secure hdd. The device connected fine using default user password and I am also able to enter administrator mode. So far so good.
The problem is I am unable to change/delete the default pass.
1) I have tried changing it from user mode using Green+1, after which the diode blinks 3 times in red and goes green, while it should be blue.
2) I have tried deleting it from administrator mode (7+8+Green)(7+8+Green) - did not work as well.
3) I added a new user password from admin mode (Green+1) - worked fine
4) I was able to unlock and login using the new user password - OK
5) I was able to change the new user password (Green+1) to another one which also worked fine.
6) I tried deleting all user passwords again from admin mode and the only one that was deleted was the one added by me.
So whatever I do, I am still able to unlock the drive using the default pass, which makes it useless.
I have seen at least one similar posts on this forum concerning the password change
http://forums.lenovo.com/t5/Options-Accessories/Thinkpad-USB-Secure-Hard-Drive-admin-password-changi...
and I hope someone will pay attention to this problem or I'll going to return it on Friday.
Best
Pawel
Solved!
Go to Solution.Hello Denmark calling.
Solution for you’re:
ThinkPad USB 3.0 Secure Hard Drive problem.
In order to set the Admin pass, you will have to do the following
1. Press 0+OK for 5 sec, enter "12345678" and OK = BLUE LED (Admin mode)
2. Press OK+9 = BLUE LED flashes
3. Enter admin code with correct fashion, and then OK = BLUE LED flashes (and now most important)
4. Re-enter admin code, and OK = BLUE LED.
This must be done before attempting to change user password. (Obvious reasons)
For User code change.
This can be changed by accessing the admin mode first = BLUE LED
And then
1+OK = BLUE LED flashes
Re-enter user code and OK = BLUE LED
For User code and Admin code there is not mentioned any reference online reference supplied by Lenovo, which tells the new proud owner the correct way to alter standard codes.
But let it be said that in my humble opinion this is a (almost) great product (SSD would make the difference for me personally)
Hopes it helps
TaR -
Factory cal for a loc (XXXX) is for Friday . When i run the SNP01 in background i get purchase reqn for thursday and not for friday . Ideally i should be getting them for each friday.. can u please help.
thanks
vickyHello Vicky,
For the pruchase requisition, it your location XXXX the source location or target location?
If it is the souce location, if you want the purchase requisition only be created on Fridays, you can assing a shipping calendar to the location in /sapapo/loc3, with only Fridays as working periods.
If it is the target location, you'll need to assign a receiveing calendar instead of shipping calendar, to make sure the receipts are only on Fridays.
Best Regards,
Ada
Edited by: Ada Lv on Aug 19, 2011 4:39 PM -
Answer for the Interview Questions
Hello Experts,
Below is the list of questions from DP and SNP which I took it from APO Interview Questions thread. Please provide us the answers for the questions. It will be really helpful for the beginners like me. If every one in the forum contributes then it will be very great.
Thanks for your reply.
Best Regards,
Raj.
Where do you define Info-objects?
Info-objects comprise of?
What is Administrator Workbench is used to create and manage?
What are the different types of data in liveCache?
what is the difference between Storage Bucket Profile and Planning Bucket Profile?
How can you setup two grids in the Planning Book / Data View?
What can be sources of data in the timeseries keyfigure?
What is the use of ex-post forecast in Univariate Statistical Forecasting?
What are the types of Keyfigure aggregation in terms of characteristics/Calc Type?
What are the types of Keyfigure aggregation in terms of time?
Where do you maintain keyfigure aggregation?
What are aggregates?
What is the difference between planning characteristic and navigational attribute?
What are selection profiles used for?
What are the different ways of creating CVCs?
How many levels does a macro have?
What are the different types of standard macros?
When is the exit and default macro executed?
What is process chain and how is it used in Demand Planning?
what is an Infospoke? Where do you find the configuration in BW Admin Workbench?
what is the basis of creation of planning books and data views considering background job performance?
Where do you set the level at which a DP background job activity has to execute?
How can you setup custom alert types for DP and SNP?
what is the difference between Dynamic and Database alerts?
Where are database alerts stored (table name)?
What is realignment and explain the process?
What is cannibalization group?
What are the different forecast error measures and which is most preferred?
What are the different types of keyfigures you can use in a Planning Book?
What is planning version and planning area initialisation?
What is the master data in APO Demand Planning?
what is meant by Release of Demand Plan to SNP?
How do you create proportional factors? What is the standard keyfigure for Proportional Factor?
1. What is the difference between order series and time series data. How does different types of transaction data get mapped to Interactive Planning keyfigures?
2. What are the different methods of doing Supply Network Planning namely Heuristic, Optimiser, Multi-Level Demand Supply Match (CTM)?
3. What are aggregates and how are they used in SNP.
4. What is SNP Stock Transfer Horizon? What is the relation with Planning Time Fence?
5. What is SNP Horizon? What is the relation with PPDS Horizon?
6. What is the key difference in planning with SNP vs PPDS?
7. What is the master data required for planning in SNP?
8. How are SNP Plans different from PPDs Plans.
9. How can capacity constraints considered in SNP.
10. What are Quota Arrangements and how are they used?
11. How do you get forecast in SNP? What is forecast consumption?
12. How does the different transaction data aggregate and show up in different keyfigures in Interactive SNP?
13. What are the different types of SNP Heuristics possible?
14. What are the different Safety Stock calculation methods that can be sued in SNP?
15. What is Netting and Forecast Consumption? Explain Backward and Forward Consumption?
16. Are requirements and receipts in SNP pegged? How is it different from PPDS?
17. What is the relationship between SNP Horizon and PPDS Horizon?
18. Briefly describe the different ways of managing safety stock in SNP
19. What is the difference between a model and a version
20. In what scenario Capable-to-Match is applicable.
21. Briefly explain how SNP optimiser can be setup and used.Dear Raj,
you can go through the following questions and answers which will help you.
How can a planning version be frozen and unfrozen?
A Planning Version can be frozen and unfrozen using Function Module /SAPAPO/TS_PAREA_VERSIO_FREEZE so that no further changes to the planning version can be done.
What is Release Profile?
Release Profile is used to release timeseries data from DP to SNP/PPDS. You need to define the DP Planning Area and timeseries keyfigure the data in which is released and the SNP Category Type (typically FA) to which data is released. You may maintain a Daily Buckets Profile it will define the number of working days (working days determined based on Shipping Calendar maintained for the location master) starting on and from the From Date if released online/ interactively or that many workdays of the planning horizon when release is carried out in background. The Period Split (blank, 1 and 2) field in the SNP2 tab of location-product master determines how demand plan is released to SNP from DP (how bucketed data is disaggregated to the workdays).
What is the usage of Period Factor?
Period Factor maintained in the SNP PPM or Transportation Lane determines the Availability Date of a Receipt element within a time bucket (period). The system determines the exact availability date/time of the receipt elements within a period, by adding a time interval (that it gets by multiplying the period factor with the period length) to the start time of the period. You can enter a factor between 0 and 1, where 0 is the start of the period, 0.5 the middle, and 1 the end of the period. When calculating the availability date/time, the system takes into consideration all weekdays, meaning that it does not take into consideration any days that have been defined as non-workdays in the calendars.
Period Factor used is .71 = 7x0.71 = 4.97 or 5 days from ptimizer of weekly bucket resulting in a Friday.
If Period Factor is not maintained in PPM or Transportation Lane then the User Period Factor indicator and the Period Factor value maintained in the Lot Size tab of the location-product combination is used. If this is not maintained a default value of 0.5 is used.
What determines stock categories displayed in Stock on Hand keyfigure?
The categories defined in Category Group ST1 (can be maintained in table /SAPAPO/APOCGC) determine the stock categories that are displayed in the Initial bucket in the Stock on Hand keyfigure. Subsequent buckets are dynamically computed.
Does dynamic alerts show up in Alert Monitor?
Dynamic Alerts do not show up in the stand-alone alert monitor. Network alerts are to show pegging relationships.
What is the report to execute MASSD?
The report for executing MassD in background job is MASSBACK.
What is the shortcut to change location type in APO?
Report /SAPAPO/CHECK_LOCATION_TYPE can be used to change location type (say from 1001 to 1002 or vice-versa) of existing locations in APO. The table to refer is /SAPAPO/LOCMAP. SAP does not recommend this process.
How can a transaction be executed even when no authorization?
SE93 - Transaction code for Transaction Code E.g. CRC1 Create Resource has txn code CRAH. So if you do not have authorization to create resource you can use SE93 and enter txn CRAH and then Test F8 button to go to the txn.
How to copy a Process Chain?
To copy a process chain to another process chain, goto the Process Chain you want to copy and then type copy in the tool tar and hit enter. It will allow you to copy the Process Chain to another Process Chain that can be modified as per user's requirement, saved, activated and used.
What is the process to copy planning versions in R/3?
Use OLIX to first delete previous MRP planning versions. Then use MCB& to create the new MRP planning versions by choosing the appropriate version you want to create as ICO Version. The info structure in this case is S094.
How to use create planning book with two tables?
To use two tables on one screen of Planning Book/Data View - select indicator next to second page title and give name. Additional tab page is displayed in Planning Book Maintenance wizard to define the keyfigures for the second table.
What is Master Data in DP?
Master Data in Demand Planning primarily is Charcateristic Value Combinations commonly termed CVCs. CVCs are the planning combinations against which data is stored in keyfigures.
What is the behaviour of Procurement Type X?
Procurement Type X - source selection is based on matching due date then priority then cost. If both In-house Production and External Procuremnet is possible then In-house Production (PPM) is chosen as source of supply.
What is PPDS Fixing Horizon?
PP/DS fixing Horizon defines the PP/DS time Fence - within that period if heuristic is run no orders get changed.
What is the reuse mode in Product Heuristic?
Reuse mode in Product Heuristic - makes the system to reuse orders already present in the heuristic run i.e. orders are not deleted and recreated.
What is Planning Procedure?
Planning Procedure in Product Master (PP/DS) defines that when you convert a planned order to process order it is in Deallocated state and not Scheduled state and more.
<u><i><b>Award me if helpful</b></i></u>
Regards
Srikanth -
Hi Friends,
I was face some Interview.
Please send answers to the questions?
How many data Fields and key fields we can create in DSO?
You can overwrite key fields or Data Fields?
Which up date we use in Delta queue extraction( v1 or v2 or v3)
Which message we get when transported request is failed?
what is the Structural difference between Infoucbe and DSO
Data Loading is taking huge time when we extract data from source system to BI system/ how to solve?(Before it took 3-4 Hours now data loading takes 4 days)What is the difference between Display Attribute and
Navigational Attribute? How to make display attribute and navigational
attribute?
How to load flat file data?
How to load Hierarchy file data?
What is HACR?
How to maintain HACR?
If any issue in HACR then how to resolve the issue?
What is Baby Cube?
Why we are creating Aggregates?
What is the use of Aggregates?
Is there
any particular field on that we can create Aggregates or we can maintain
Aggregate on any field?
What is
the different DSO available? And what is the difference between those DSO?
What is
replacement path?
What are
the extractor types?
• Application Specific
o BW Content FI, HR, CO, SAP CRM, LO Cockpit
o Customer-Generated Extractors
LIS, FI-SL, CO-PA
• Cross Application (Generic Extractors)
o DB View, InfoSet, Function Module
2. What are the steps involved in LO Extraction?
• The steps are:
o RSA5 Select the DataSources
o LBWE Maintain DataSources and Activate Extract Structures
o LBWG Delete Setup Tables
o 0LI*BW Setup tables
o RSA3 Check extraction and the data in Setup tables
o LBWQ Check the extraction queue
o LBWF Log for LO Extract Structures
o RSA7 BW Delta
Queue Monitor
3. How to create a connection with LIS InfoStructures?
• LBW0 Connecting LIS InfoStructures to BW
4. What is the difference between ODS and InfoCube and MultiProvider?
• ODS: Provides granular data, allows overwrite and data is in transparent
tables, ideal for drilldown and RRI.
• CUBE: Follows the star schema, we can only append data, ideal for primary
reporting.
• MultiProvider: Does not have physical data. It allows to access data from
different InfoProviders (Cube, ODS, InfoObject). It is also preferred for
reporting.
5. What are Start routines, Transfer routines and Update routines?
• Start Routines: The start routine is run for each DataPackage after the data
has been written to the PSA and before the transfer rules have been executed.
It allows complex computations for a key figure or a characteristic. It has no
return value. Its purpose is to execute preliminary calculations and to store
them in global DataStructures. This structure or table can be accessed in the
other routines. The entire DataPackage in the transfer structure format is used
as a parameter for the routine.
• Transfer / Update Routines: They are defined at the InfoObject level. It is
like the Start Routine. It is independent of the DataSource. We can use this to
define Global Data and Global Checks.
6. What is the difference between start routine and update routine, when, how
and why are they called?
• Start routine can be used to access InfoPackage while update routines are
used while updating the Data Targets.
7. What is the table that is used in start routines?
• Always the table structure will be the structure of an ODS or InfoCube. For
example if it is an ODS then active table structure will be the table.
8. Explain how you used Start routines in your project?
• Start routines are used for mass processing of records. In start routine all
the records of DataPackage is available for processing. So we can process all
these records together in start routine. In one of scenario, we wanted to apply
size % to the forecast data. For example if material M1 is forecasted to say
100 in May. Then after applying size %(Small 20%, Medium 40%, Large 20%, Extra
Large 20%), we wanted to have 4 records against one single record that is
coming in the info package. This is achieved in start routine.
9. What are Return Tables?
• When we want to return multiple records, instead of single value, we use the
return table in the Update Routine. Example: If we have total telephone expense
for a Cost Center, using a return table we can get
expense per employee.
10. How do start routine and return table synchronize with each other?
• Return table is used to return the Value following the execution of start
routine
11. What is the difference
between V1, V2 and V3 updates?
• V1 Update: It is a Synchronous update. Here the Statistics update is carried
out at the same time as the document update (in the application
tables).
• V2 Update: It is an Asynchronous update. Statistics update and the Document
update take place as different tasks.
o V1 & V2 don't need scheduling.
• Serialized V3 Update: The V3 collective update must be scheduled as a job
(via LBWE). Here, document data is collected in the order it was created and
transferred into the BW as a batch job. The transfer sequence may not be the
same as the order in which the data was created in all scenarios. V3 update
only processes the update data that is successfully processed with the V2
update.
12. What is compression?
• It is a process used to delete the Request IDs and this saves space.
13. What is Rollup?
• This is used to load new DataPackages (requests) into the InfoCube
aggregates. If we have not performed a rollup then the new InfoCube data will
not be available while reporting on the aggregate.
14. What is table partitioning and what are the benefits of partitioning in an
InfoCube?
• It is the method of dividing a table which would enable a quick reference.
SAP uses fact file partitioning to improve performance. We can partition only
at 0CALMONTH or 0FISCPER. Table partitioning helps to run the report faster as
data is stored in the relevant partitions. Also table maintenance becomes
easier. Oracle,
Informix, IBM DB2/390 supports table partitioning while SAP DB, Microsoft SQL
Server, IBM DB2/400 do not support table portioning.
15. How many extra partitions are created and why?
• Two partitions are created for date before the begin date and after the end
date.
16. What are the options available in transfer rule?
• InfoObject
• Constant
• Routine
• Formula
17. How would you optimize the dimensions?
• We should define as many dimensions as possible and we have to take care that
no single dimension crosses more than 20% of the fact table size.
18. What are Conversion Routines for units and currencies in the update rule?
• Using this option we can write ABAP
code for Units / Currencies conversion. If we enable this flag then unit of Key
Figure appears in the ABAP code as an additional parameter. For example, we can
convert units in Pounds to Kilos.
19. Can an InfoObject be an InfoProvider, how and why?
• Yes, when we want to report on Characteristics or Master Data. We have to
right click on the InfoArea and select "Insert characteristic as data
target". For example, we can make 0CUSTOMER as an InfoProvider and report
on it.
20. What is Open Hub Service?
• The Open Hub Service enables us to distribute data from an SAP BW system into
external Data Marts, analytical applications, and other applications. We can
ensure controlled distribution using several systems. The central object for
exporting data is the InfoSpoke. We can define the source and the target object
for the data. BW becomes a hub of an enterprise data warehouse.
The distribution of data becomes clear through central monitoring from the
distribution status in the BW system.
21. How do you transform Open
Hub Data?
• Using BADI we can transform Open Hub Data according to the destination
requirement.
22. What is ODS?
• Operational DataSource is used for detailed storage of data. We can overwrite
data in the ODS. The data is stored in transparent tables.
23. What are BW Statistics and what is its use?
• They are group of Business Content InfoCubes which are used to measure
performance for Query and Load Monitoring. It also shows the usage of
aggregates, OLAP and Warehouse management
http://www.ittestpapers.com/articles/713/3/SAP-BW-Interview-Questions---Part-A/Page3.html
Communication Structure and Transfer
rules
• Create and InfoPackage
• Load Data
25. What are the delta options available when you load from flat file?
• The 3 options for Delta Management with Flat Files:
o Full Upload
o New Status for Changed records (ODS Object only)
o Additive Delta (ODS Object & InfoCube)
Q) Under which menu path is the Test Workbench to be found, including in
earlier Releases?
The menu path is: Tools - ABAP Workbench - Test - Test Workbench.
Q) I want to delete a BEx query that is in Production system through request. Is
anyone aware about it?
A) Have you tried the RSZDELETE transaction?
Q) Errors while monitoring process chains.
A) During data loading. Apart from them, in process chains you add so many
process types, for example after loading data into Info Cube, you rollup data
into aggregates, now this rolling up of data into aggregates is a process type
which you keep after the process type for loading data into Cube. This rolling
up into aggregates might fail.
Another one is after you load data into ODS, you activate ODS data (another
process type) this might also fail.
Q) In Monitor----- Details (Header/Status/Details) à Under Processing (data
packet): Everything OK à Context menu of Data Package 1 (1 Records): Everything
OK ---- Simulate update. (Here we can debug update rules or transfer rules.)
SM50 à Program/Mode à Program à Debugging & debug this work process.
Q) PSA Cleansing.
A) You know how to edit PSA. I don't think you can delete single records. You
have to delete entire PSA data for a request.
Q) Can we make a datasource to support delta.
A) If this is a custom (user-defined) datasource you can make the datasource
delta enabled. While creating datasource from RSO2, after entering datasource
name and pressing create, in the next screen there is one button at the top,
which says generic delta. If you want more details about this there is a
chapter in Extraction book, it's in last pages u find out.
Generic delta services: -
Supports delta extraction for generic extractors according to:
Time stamp
Calendar day
Numeric pointer, such as document number & counter
Only one of these attributes can be set as a delta attribute.
Delta extraction is supported for all generic extractors, such as tables/views,
SAP Query and function modules
The delta queue (RSA7) allows you to monitor the current status of the delta
attribute
Q) Workbooks, as a general rule, should be transported with the
role.
Here are a couple of scenarios:
1. If both the workbook and its role have been previously transported, then the
role does not need to be part of the transport.
2. If the role exists in both dev and the target system but the workbook has
never been transported, and then you have a choice of transporting the role
(recommended) or just the workbook. If only the workbook is transported, then
an additional step will have to be taken after import: Locate the WorkbookID
via Table RSRWBINDEXT (in Dev and verify the same exists in the target system)
and proceed to manually add it to the role in the target system via Transaction
Code PFCG -- ALWAYS use control c/control v copy/paste for manually adding!
3. If the role does not exist in the target system you should transport both
the role and workbook. Keep in mind that a workbook is an object unto itself
and has no dependencies on other objects. Thus, you do not receive an error
message from the transport of 'just a workbook' -- even though it may not be
visible, it will exist (verified via Table RSRWBINDEXT).
Overall, as a general rule, you should transport roles with workbooks.
Q) How much time does it take to extract 1 million (10 lackhs) of records into
an infocube?
A. This depends, if you have complex coding in update rules it will take longer
time, or else it will take less than 30 minutes.
Q) What are the five ASAP Methodologies?
A: Project plan, Business Blue print, Realization, Final preparation & Go-Live - support.
1. Project Preparation: In this phase, decision makers define clear project
objectives and an efficient decision making process ( i.e. Discussions with the
client, like what are his needs and requirements etc.). Project managers
will be involved in this phase (I guess).
A Project Charter is issued and an implementation strategy is outlined in this
phase.
2. Business Blueprint: It is a detailed documentation of your company's
requirements. (i.e. what are the objects we need to develop are modified
depending on the client's requirements).
3. Realization: In this only, the implementation of the project takes place (development
of objects etc) and we are involved in the project from here only.
4. Final Preparation: Final preparation before going live i.e. testing,
conducting pre-go-live, end user training etc.
End user training is given that is in the client site you train them how to
work with the new environment, as they are new to the technology.
5. Go-Live & support: The project has gone live and it is into production.
The Project team will be supporting the end users.
Q) What is landscape of R/3 & what is landscape of BW. Landscape of R/3 not
sure.
Then Landscape of b/w: u have the development system, testing system, production system
Development system: All the implementation part is done in this sys. (I.e.,
Analysis of objects developing, modification etc) and from here the objects are
transported to the testing system, but before transporting an initial test
known as Unit testing
(testing of objects) is done in the development sys.
Testing/Quality system: quality check is done in this system and integration
testing is done.
Production system: All the extraction part takes place in this sys.
Q) How do you measure the size of infocube?
A: In no of records.
Q). Difference between infocube and ODS?
A: Infocube is structured as star schema (extended) where a fact table is
surrounded by different dim table that are linked with DIM'ids. And the data
wise, you will have aggregated data in the cubes. No overwrite functionality
ODS is a flat structure (flat table) with no star schema concept and which will
have granular data (detailed level). Overwrite functionality.
Flat file
datasources does not support 0recordmode in extraction.
x before, -after, n new, a add, d delete, r reverse
Q) Difference between display attributes and navigational attributes?
A: Display attribute is one, which is used only for display purpose in the
report. Where as navigational attribute is used for drilling down in the
report. We don't need to maintain Navigational attribute in the cube as a
characteristic (that is the advantage) to drill down.
Q. SOME DATA IS UPLOADED TWICE INTO INFOCUBE. HOW TO CORRECT IT?
A: But how is it possible? If you load it manually twice, then you can delete
it by requestID.
Q. CAN U ADD A NEW FIELD AT THE ODS LEVEL?
Sure you can. ODS is nothing but a table.
Q. CAN NUMBER OF DATASOURCES HAVE ONE INFOSOURCE?
A) Yes of course. For example, for loading text and hierarchies we use
different data sources but the same InfoSource.
Q. BRIEF THE DATAFLOW IN BW.
A) Data flows from transactional system to analytical system (BW). DataSources
on the transactional system needs to be replicated on BW side and attached to
infosource and update rules respectively.
Q. CURRENCY CONVERSIONS CAN BE WRITTEN IN UPDATE RULES. WHY NOT IN TRANSFER
RULES?
Q) WHAT IS PROCEDURE TO UPDATE DATA INTO DATA TARGETS?
FULL and DELTA.
Q) AS WE USE Sbwnn, sbiw1, sbiw2 for delta update in LIS THEN
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE IN LO-COCKPIT?
No LIS in LO cockpit. We will have datasources and can be maintained (append
fields). Refer white paper
on LO-Cockpit extractions.
Q) Why we delete the setup tables (LBWG) & fill them (OLI*BW)?
A) Initially we don't delete the setup tables but when we do change in extract
structure we go for it. We r changing the extract structure right, that means
there are some newly added fields in that which r not before. So to get the
required data ( i.e.; the data which is required is taken and to avoid
redundancy) we delete n then fill the setup tables.
To refresh the statistical data.
The extraction set up reads the dataset that you want to process such as,
customers orders with the tables like VBAK, VBAP) & fills the relevant communication
structure with the data. The data is stored in cluster
tables from where it is read when the initialization is run. It is important
that during initialization phase, no one generates or modifies application
data, at least until the tables can be set up.
Q) SIGNIFICANCE of ODS?
It holds granular data (detailed level).
Q) WHERE THE PSA DATA IS STORED?
In PSA table.
Q) WHAT IS DATA SIZE?
The volume of data one data target holds (in no. of records)
Q) Different types of INFOCUBES.
Basic, Virtual (remote, sap remote and multi)
Virtual Cube is used for example, if you consider railways reservation all the
information has to be updated online. For designing the Virtual cube you have
to write the function module that is linking to table, Virtual cube it is like
a the structure, when ever the table is updated the virtual cube will fetch the
data from table and display report Online... FYI.. you will get the information
: https://www.sdn.sap.com/sdn
/index.sdn and search for Designing Virtual Cube and you will get
a good material designing the Function Module
Q) INFOSET QUERY.
Can be made of ODS's and Characteristic InfoObjects with masterdata.
Q) IF THERE ARE 2 DATASOURCES HOW MANY TRANSFER STRUCTURES ARE THERE.
In R/3 or in BW? 2 in R/3 and 2 in BW
Q) ROUTINES?
Exist in the InfoObject, transfer routines, update routines and start routine
Q) BRIEF SOME STRUCTURES USED IN BEX.
Rows and Columns, you can create structures.
Q) WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT VARIABLES USED IN BEX?
Different Variable's are Texts, Formulas, Hierarchies, Hierarchy nodes &
Characteristic values.
Variable Types are
Manual entry /default value
Replacement path
SAP exit
Customer exit
Authorization
Q) HOW MANY LEVELS YOU CAN GO IN REPORTING?
You can drill down to any level by using Navigational attributes and jump
targets.
Q) WHAT ARE INDEXES?
Indexes are data base indexes, which help in retrieving data fastly.
Q) DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2.1 AND 3.X VERSIONS.
Help! Refer documentation
Q) IS IT NESSESARY TO INITIALIZE EACH TIME THE DELTA UPDATE IS USED?
No.
Q) WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF KPI'S?
KPI's indicate the performance of a company. These are key figures
Q) AFTER THE DATA EXTRACTION
WHAT IS THE IMAGE POSITION.
After image (correct me if I am wrong)
Q) REPORTING AND RESTRICTIONS.
Help! Refer documentation.
Q) TOOLS USED FOR PERFORMANCE TUNING.
ST22, Number ranges, delete indexes before load. Etc
Q) PROCESS CHAINS: IF U has USED IT THEN HOW WILL U SCHEDULING DATA DAILY.
There should be some tool to run the job daily (SM37 jobs)
Q) AUTHORIZATIONS.
Profile generator
Q) WEB REPORTING.
What are you expecting??
Q) CAN CHARECTERSTIC INFOOBJECT CAN BE INFOPROVIDER.
Of course
Q) PROCEDURES OF REPORTING ON MULTICUBES
Refer help. What are you expecting? MultiCube works on Union condition
Q) EXPLAIN TRANPSORTATION OF OBJECTS?
Dev---àQ and Dev-------àP
Q) What types of partitioning are there for BW?
There are two Partitioning Performance aspects for BW (Cube & PSA)
Query Data Retrieval
Performance Improvement:
Partitioning by (say) Date Range improves data retrieval by making best use of
database [data range] execution plans and indexes (of say Oracle database engine).
B) Transactional Load Partitioning Improvement:
Partitioning based on expected load volumes and data element sizes. Improves
data loading into PSA and Cubes by infopackages (Eg. without timeouts).
Q) How can I compare data in R/3 with data in a BW Cube after the daily delta
loads? Are there any standard procedures for checking them or matching the
number of records?
A) You can go to R/3 TCode RSA3 and run the extractor. It will give you the
number of records extracted. Then go to BW Monitor to check the number of
records in the PSA and check to see if it is the same & also in the monitor
header tab.
A) RSA3 is a simple extractor checker program that allows you to rule out
extracts problems in R/3. It is simple to use, but only really tells you if the
extractor works. Since records that get updated into Cubes/ODS structures are
controlled by Update Rules, you will not be able to determine what is in the
Cube compared to what is in the R/3 environment. You will need to compare
records on a 1:1 basis against records in R/3 transactions for the functional
area in question. I would recommend enlisting the help of the end user community
to assist since they presumably know the data.
To use RSA3, go to it and enter the extractor ex: 2LIS_02_HDR. Click execute
and you will see the record count, you can also go to display that data. You
are not modifying anything so what you do in RSA3 has no effect on data quality
afterwards. However, it will not tell you how many records should be expected
in BW for a given load. You have that information in the monitor RSMO during
and after data loads. From RSMO for a given load you can determine how many
records were passed through the transfer rules from R/3, how many targets were
updated, and how many records passed through the Update Rules. It also gives
you error messages from the PSA.
Q) Types of Transfer Rules?
A) Field to Field mapping, Constant, Variable & routine.
Q) Types of Update Rules?
A) (Check box), Return table
Q) Transfer Routine?
A) Routines, which we write in, transfer rules.
Q) Update Routine?
A) Routines, which we write in Update rules
Q) What is the difference between writing a routine in transfer rules and
writing a routine in update rules?
A) If you are using the same InfoSource to update data in more than one data
target its better u write in transfer rules because u can assign one InfoSource
to more than one data target & and what ever logic u write in update rules
it is specific to particular one data target.
Q) Routine with Return Table.
A) Update rules generally only have one return value. However, you can create a
routine in the tab strip key figure calculation, by choosing checkbox Return
table. The corresponding key figure routine then no longer has a return value,
but a return table. You can then generate as many key figure values, as you
like from one data record.
Q) Start routines?
A) Start routines u can write in both updates rules and transfer rules, suppose
you want to restrict (delete) some records based on conditions before getting
loaded into data targets, then you can specify this in update rules-start
routine.
Ex: - Delete Data_Package ani ante it will delete a record based on the
condition
Q) X & Y Tables?
X-table = A table to link material SIDs with SIDs for time-independent
navigation attributes.
Y-table = A table to link material SIDs with SIDS for time-dependent navigation
attributes.
There are four types of sid tables
X time independent navigational attributes sid tables
Y time dependent navigational attributes sid tables
H hierarchy sid tables
I hierarchy structure sid tables
Q) Filters & Restricted Key figures (real time example)
Restricted KF's u can have for an SD cube: billed quantity, billing value, no:
of billing documents as RKF's.
Q) Line-Item Dimension (give me an real time example)
Line-Item Dimension: Invoice no: or Doc no: is a real time example
Q) What does the number in the 'Total' column in Transaction RSA7 mean?
A) The 'Total' column displays the number of LUWs that were written in the
delta queue and that have not yet been confirmed. The number includes the LUWs
of the last delta request (for repetition of a delta request) and the LUWs for
the next delta request. A LUW only disappears from the RSA7 display when it has
been transferred to the BW System and a new delta request has been received
from the BW System.
Q) How to know in which table (SAP BW) contains Technical Name / Description
and creation data of a particular Reports. Reports that are created using BEx
Analyzer.
A) There is no such table in BW if you want to know such details while you are
opening a particular query press properties button you will come to know all
the details that you wanted.
You will find your information about technical names and description about
queries in the following tables. Directory of all reports (Table RSRREPDIR) and
Directory of the reporting component elements (Table RSZELTDIR) for workbooks
and the connections to queries check Where- used list for reports in workbooks
(Table RSRWORKBOOK) Titles of Excel Workbooks in InfoCatalog (Table
RSRWBINDEXT)
Q) What is a LUW in the delta queue?
A) A LUW from the point of view of the delta queue can be an individual
document, a group of documents from a collective run or a whole data packet of
an application
extractor.
Q) Why does the number in the 'Total' column in the overview screen of
Transaction RSA7 differ from the number of data records that is displayed when
you call the detail view?
A) The number on the overview screen corresponds to the total of LUWs (see also
first question) that were written to the qRFC queue and that have not yet been
confirmed. The detail screen displays the records contained in the LUWs. Both,
the records belonging to the previous delta request and the records that do not
meet the selection conditions of the preceding delta init requests are filtered
out. Thus, only the records that are ready for the next delta request are
displayed on the detail screen. In the detail screen of Transaction RSA7, a
possibly existing customer exit is not taken into account.
Q) Why does Transaction RSA7 still display LUWs on the overview screen after
successful delta loading?
A) Only when a new delta has been requested does the source system learn that
the previous delta was successfully loaded to the BW System. Then, the LUWs of
the previous delta may be confirmed (and also deleted). In the meantime, the
LUWs must be kept for a possible delta request repetition. In particular, the
number on the overview screen does not change when the first delta was loaded
to the BW System.
Q) Why are selections not taken into account when the delta queue is filled?
A) Filtering according to selections takes place when the system reads from the
delta queue. This is necessary for reasons of performance.
Q) Why is there a DataSource with '0' records in RSA7 if delta exists and has
also been loaded successfully?
It is most likely that this is a DataSource that does not send delta data to
the BW System via the delta queue but directly via the extractor (delta for
master data using ALE change pointers). Such a DataSource should not be
displayed in RSA7. This error is corrected with BW 2.0B Support Package 11.
Q) Do the entries in table ROIDOCPRMS have an impact on the performance of the
loading procedure from the delta queue?
A) The impact is limited. If performance problems are related to the loading
process from the delta queue, then refer to the application-specific notes (for
example in the CO-PA area, in the logistics cockpit area and so on).
Caution: As of Plug In 2000.2 patch 3 the entries in table ROIDOCPRMS are as
effective for the delta queue as for a full update. Please note, however, that
LUWs are not split during data loading for consistency reasons. This means that
when very large LUWs are written to the DeltaQueue, the actual package size may
differ considerably from the MAXSIZE and MAXLINES parameters.
Q) Why does it take so long to display the data in the delta queue (for example
approximately 2 hours)?
A) With Plug In 2001.1 the display was changed: the user has the option of
defining the amount of data to be displayed, to restrict it, to selectively
choose the number of a data record, to make a distinction between the 'actual'
delta data and the data intended for repetition and so on.
Q) What is the purpose of function 'Delete data and meta data in a queue' in
RSA7? What exactly is deleted?
A) You should act with extreme caution when you use the deletion function in
the delta queue. It is comparable to deleting an InitDelta in the BW System and
should preferably be executed there. You do not only delete all data of this
DataSource for the affected BW System, but also lose the entire information
concerning the delta initialization. Then you can only request new deltas after
another delta initialization.
When you delete the data, the LUWs kept in the qRFC queue for the corresponding
target system are confirmed. Physical deletion only takes place in the qRFC
outbound queue if there are no more references to the LUWs.
The deletion function is for example intended for a case where the BW System,
from which the delta initialization was originally executed, no longer exists
or can no longer be accessed.
Q) Why does it take so long to delete from the delta queue (for example half a
day)?
A) Import PlugIn 2000.2 patch 3. With this patch the performance during
deletion is considerably improved.
Q) Why is the delta queue not updated when you start the V3 update in the
logistics cockpit area?
A) It is most likely that a delta initialization had not yet run or that the
delta initialization was not successful. A successful delta initialization (the
corresponding request must have QM status 'green' in the BW System) is a
prerequisite for the application data being written in the delta queue.
Q) What is the relationship between RSA7 and the qRFC monitor (Transaction
SMQ1)?
A) The qRFC monitor basically displays the same data as RSA7. The internal
queue name must be used for selection on the initial screen of the qRFC
monitor. This is made up of the prefix 'BW, the client and the short name of
the DataSource. For DataSources whose name are 19 characters long or shorter,
the short name corresponds to the name of the DataSource. For DataSources whose
name is longer than 19 characters (for delta-capable DataSources only possible
as of PlugIn 2001.1) the short name is assigned in table ROOSSHORTN.
In the qRFC monitor you cannot distinguish between repeatable and new LUWs.
Moreover, the data of a LUW is displayed in an unstructured manner there.
Q) Why are the data in the delta queue although the V3 update was not started?
A) Data was posted in background. Then, the records are updated directly in the
delta queue (RSA7). This happens in particular during automatic goods receipt
posting (MRRS). There is no duplicate transfer of records to the BW system. See
Note 417189.
Q) Why does button 'Repeatable' on the RSA7 data details screen not only show
data loaded into BW during the last delta but also data that were newly added,
i.e. 'pure' delta records?
A) Was programmed in a way that the request in repeat mode fetches both
actually repeatable (old) data and new data from the source system.
Q) I loaded several delta inits with various selections. For which one is the
delta loaded?
A) For delta, all selections made via delta inits are summed up. This means, a
delta for the 'total' of all delta initializations is loaded.
Q) How many selections for delta inits are possible in the system?
A) With simple selections (intervals without complicated join conditions or
single values), you can make up to about 100 delta inits. It should not be
more.
With complicated selection conditions, it should be only up to 10-20 delta
inits.
Reason: With many selection conditions that are joined in a complicated way,
too many 'where' lines are generated in the generated ABAP
source code that may exceed the memory limit.
Q) I intend to copy the source system, i.e. make a client copy. What will
happen with may delta? Should I initialize again after that?
A) Before you copy a source client or source system, make sure that your deltas
have been fetched from the DeltaQueue into BW and that no delta is pending.
After the client copy, an inconsistency might occur between BW delta tables and
the OLTP delta tables as described in Note 405943. After the client copy, Table
ROOSPRMSC will probably be empty in the OLTP since this table is
client-independent. After the system copy, the table will contain the entries
with the old logical system name that are no longer useful for further delta
loading from the new logical system. The delta must be initialized in any case
since delta depends on both the BW system and the source system. Even if no
dump 'MESSAGE_TYPE_X' occurs in BW when editing or creating an InfoPackage, you
should expect that the delta have to be initialized after the copy.
Q) Is it allowed in Transaction SMQ1 to use the functions for manual control of
processes?
A) Use SMQ1 as an instrument for diagnosis and control only. Make changes to BW
queues only after informing the BW Support or only if this is explicitly
requested in a note for component 'BC-BW' or 'BW-WHM-SAPI'.
Q) Despite of the delta request being started after completion of the
collective run (V3 update), it does not contain all documents. Only another
delta request loads the missing documents into BW. What is the cause for this
"splitting"?
A) The collective run submits the open V2 documents for processing to the task
handler, which processes them in one or several parallel update processes in an
asynchronous way. For this reason, plan a sufficiently large "safety time
window" between the end of the collective run in the source system and the
start of the delta request in BW. An alternative solution where this problem
does not occur is described in Note 505700.
Q) Despite my deleting the delta init, LUWs are still written into the
DeltaQueue?
A) In general, delta initializations and deletions of delta inits should always
be carried out at a time when no posting takes place. Otherwise, buffer
problems may occur: If a user started the internal mode at a time when the
delta initialization was still active, he/she posts data into the queue even
though the initialization had been deleted in the meantime. This is the case in
your system.
Q) In SMQ1 (qRFC Monitor) I have status 'NOSEND'. In the table TRFCQOUT, some
entries have the status 'READY', others 'RECORDED'. ARFCSSTATE is 'READ'. What
do these statuses mean? Which values in the field 'Status' mean what and which
values are correct and which are alarming? Are the statuses BW-specific or
generally valid in qRFC?
A) Table TRFCQOUT and ARFCSSTATE: Status READ means that the record was read
once either in a delta request or in a repetition of the delta request.
However, this does not mean that the record has successfully reached the BW
yet. The status READY in the TRFCQOUT and RECORDED in the ARFCSSTATE means that
the record has been written into the DeltaQueue and will be loaded into the BW
with the next delta request or a repetition of a delta. In any case only the
statuses READ, READY and RECORDED in both tables are considered to be valid.
The status EXECUTED in TRFCQOUT can occur temporarily. It is set before
starting a DeltaExtraction for all records with status READ present at that
time. The records with status EXECUTED are usually deleted from the queue in
packages within a delta request directly after setting the status before
extracting a new delta. If you see such records, it means that either a process
which is confirming and deleting records which have been loaded into the BW is
successfully running at the moment, or, if the records remain in the table for
a longer period of time with status EXECUTED, it is likely that there are
problems with deleting the records which have already been successfully been
loaded into the BW. In this state, no more deltas are loaded into the BW. Every
other status is an indicator for an error or an inconsistency. NOSEND in SMQ1
means nothing (see note 378903).
The value 'U' in field 'NOSEND' of table TRFCQOUT is discomforting.
Q) The extract structure was changed when the DeltaQueue was empty. Afterwards
new delta records were written to the DeltaQueue. When loading the delta into
the PSA, it shows that some fields were moved. The same result occurs when the
contents of the DeltaQueue are listed via the detail display. Why are the data
displayed differently? What can be done?
Make sure that the change of the extract structure is also reflected in the
database and that all servers are synchronized. We recommend to reset the
buffers using Transaction $SYNC. If the extract structure change is not
communicated synchronously to the server where delta records are being created,
the records are written with the old structure until the new structure has been
generated. This may have disastrous consequences for the delta.
When the problem occurs, the delta needs to be re-initialized.
Q) How and where can I control whether a repeat delta is requested?
A) Via the status of the last delta in the BW Request Monitor. If the request
is RED, the next load will be of type 'Repeat'. If you need to repeat the last
load for certain reasons, set the request in the monitor to red manually. For
the contents of the repeat see Question 14. Delta requests set to red despite
of data being already updated lead to duplicate records in a subsequent repeat,
if they have not been deleted from the data targets concerned before.
Q) As of PI 2003.1, the Logistic Cockpit offers various types of update
methods. Which update method is recommended in logistics? According to which
criteria should the decision be made? How can I choose an update method in
logistics?
See the recommendation in Note 505700.
Q) Are there particular recommendations regarding the data volume the
DeltaQueue may grow to without facing the danger of a read failure due to
memory problems?
A) There is no strict limit (except for the restricted number range of the
24-digit QCOUNT counter in the LUW management table - which is of no practical
importance, however - or the restrictions regarding the volume and number of
records in a database table).
When estimating "smooth" limits, both the number of LUWs is important
and the average data volume per LUW. As a rule, we recommend to bundle data
(usually documents) already when writing to the DeltaQueue to keep number of
LUWs small (partly this can be set in the applications, e.g. in the Logistics
Cockpit). The data volume of a single LUW should not be considerably larger
than 10% of the memory available to the work process for data extraction
(in a 32-bit architecture with a memory volume of about 1GByte per work
process, 100 Mbytes per LUW should not be exceeded). That limit is of rather
small practical importance as well since a comparable limit already applies
when writing to the DeltaQueue. If the limit is observed, correct reading is
guaranteed in most cases.
If the number of LUWs cannot be reduced by bundling application transactions,
you should at least make sure that the data are fetched from all connected BWs
as quickly as possible. But for other, BW-specific, reasons, the frequency
should not be higher than one DeltaRequest per hour.
To avoid memory problems, a program-internal limit ensures that never more than
1 million LUWs are read and fetched from the database per DeltaRequest. If this
limit is reached within a request, the DeltaQueue must be emptied by several
successive DeltaRequests. We recommend, however, to try not to reach that limit
but trigger the fetching of data from the connected BWs already when the number
of LUWs reaches a 5-digit value.
Q) I would like to display the date the data was uploaded on the
report. Usually, we load the transactional data nightly. Is there any easy way
to include this information on the report for users? So that they know the
validity of the report.
A) If I understand your requirement correctly, you want to display the date on
which data was loaded into the data target from which the report is being
executed. If it is so, configure your workbook to display the text elements in
the report. This displays the relevance of data field, which is the date on which
the data load has taken place.
Q) Can we filter the fields at Transfer Structure?
Q) Can we load data directly into infoobject with out extraction is it
possible.
Yes. We can copy from other infoobject if it is same. We load data from PSA if
it is already in PSA.
Q) HOW MANY DAYS CAN WE KEEP THE DATA IN PSA, IF WE R SHEDULED DAILY, WEEKLY
AND MONTHLY.
a) We can set the time.
Q) HOW CAN U GET THE DATA FROM CLIENT IF U R WORKING ON OFFSHORE PROJECTS.
THROUGH WHICH NETWORK.
a) VPN…………….Virtual
Private Network, VPN is nothing but one sort of network
where we can connect to the client systems sitting in offshore through RAS
(Remote access server).
Q) HOW CAN U ANALIZE THE PROJECT AT FIRST?
Prepare Project Plan and Environment
Define Project Management
Standards and
Procedures
Define Implementation Standards and Procedures
Testing & Go-live + supporting.
Q) THERE is one ODS AND 4 INFOCUBES. WE SEND DATA AT TIME TO ALL CUBES IF ONE
CUBE GOT LOCK ERROR. HOW CAN U RECTIFY THE ERROR?
Go to TCode sm66 then see which one is locked select that pid from there and
goto sm12
TCode then unlock it this is happened when lock errors are occurred when u
scheduled.
Q) Can anybody tell me how to add a navigational attribute in the BEx report in
the rows?
A) Expand dimension under left side panel (that is infocube panel) select than
navigational attributes drag and drop under rows panel.
Q) IF ANY TRASACTION CODE LIKE SMPT OR STMT.
In current systems (BW 3.0B and R/3 4.6B) these Tcodes don't exist!
Q) WHAT IS TRANSACTIONAL CUBE?
A) Transactional InfoCubes differ from standard InfoCubes in that the former
have an improved write access performance level. Standard InfoCubes are
technically optimized for read-only access and for a comparatively small number
of simultaneous accesses. Instead, the transactional InfoCube was developed to
meet the demands of SAP Strategic Enterprise Management (SEM), meaning that,
data is written to the InfoCube (possibly by several users at the same time)
and re-read as soon as possible. Standard Basic cubes are not suitable for
this.
Q) Is there any way to delete cube contents within update rules from an ODS
data source? The reason for this would be to delete (or zero out) a cube record
in an "Open Order" cube if the open order quantity was 0.
I've tried using the 0recordmode but that doesn't work. Also, would it
be easier to write a program that would be run after the load and delete
the records with a zero open qty?
A) START routine for update rules u can write ABAP code.
A) Yap, you can do it. Create a start routine in Update rule.
It is not "Deleting cube contents with update rules" It is only
possible to avoid that some content is updated into the InfoCube using the
start routine. Loop at all the records and delete the record that has the
condition. "If the open order quantity was 0" You have to think also
in before and after images in case of a delta upload. In that case you may
delete the change record and keep the old and after the change the wrong
information.
Q) I am not able to access a node in hierarchy directly using variables for
reports. When I am using Tcode RSZV it is giving a message that it doesn't
exist in BW 3.0 and it is embedded in BEx. Can any one tell me the other
options to get the same functionality in BEx?
A) Tcode RSZV is used in the earlier version of 3.0B only. From 3.0B onwards,
it's possible in the Query Designer (BEx) itself. Just right click on the
InfoObject for which you want to use as variables and precede further selecting
variable type and proce -
Security interview questions - some fun to tickle your brain.
Hello gurus,
I know that posting interview question series are not allowed if the person has not put in any effort, but I have and folks seem to want to practice a bit sometimes so I take the liberty of creating a central one.
Tackle one or all of them to test your knowledge.
There are no model answers.
If you want to suggest additional ones, then please contact me.
The rules
Flaming of answers is allowed.
Funny answers earn a beer (or cup of tea).
There are no points.
1) When PFCG proposes 3 activities but you only want 2, how do you fix this?
2) What is the use of transaction PFUD at midnight?
3) Is PFUD needed when saving in SU01 and does the user need to logoff and on again after changes?
4) How are web services represented in authorizations of users who are not logged on?
5) How do you force a user to change their password and on which grounds would you do so?
6) What is the difference between SU24 and SU22? What is "orginal data" in SU22 context?
7) When an authorization check on S_BTCH_JOB fails, what happens?
8) Can you have more than one set of org-level values in one role?
9) Should RFC users have SAP_NEW and why?
10) What is an X-glueb command and where do you use it in SAP security?
11) What is the disadvantage of searching for AUTHORITY-CHECK statements in ABAP OO coding and how does SU53 deal with this?
12) In which tables can you make customizing settings for the security administration and name one example of such a setting which is usefull but not SAP default?
13) Can you use the information in SM20N to build roles and how?
14) If the system raises a message that authorizations are missing but you have SAP_ALL, what do you do?
15) Name any one security related SAP note and explain it's purpose or solution.
16) What are the two primary differences between a SAML token profile and a SAP logon ticket?
17) Where do you configure the local and global settings of the CUA and what are the consequences of inconsistent settings?
18) If you have users in different systems with different user ID's for the same person, what are your options to manage their authorizations centrally?
19) Explain the use of the TMSSUP* RFC destinations and the importance of the domain controller?
20) Why should you delete SAP_NEW profile and which transaction should you use before doing so?
To be continued...I have one year experience in SAP Security and only two in Basis, so flame on......... I swear I didn't use google or any of my systems for reference!<br><br>
1) When PFCG proposes 3 activities but you only want 2, how do you fix this? Best answer is to modify your su24 data. <br><br>
2) What is the use of transaction PFUD at midnight? removes invalid profiles from user records <br><br>
3)Is PFUD needed when saving in SU01 and does the user need to logoff and on again after changes? PFUD is not needed and the user needs to log off and back on again <br><br>
4)How are web services represented in authorizations of users who are not logged on? ?? <br><br>
5)How do you force a user to change their password and on which grounds would you do so? SU01 -> Logon Data tab -> Deactivate password. I am not sure what grounds this would be necessary. I have never had to use it. <br><br>
6)What is the difference between SU24 and SU22? What is "orginal data" in SU22 context? SU22 you maintain authorization objects???? Su24 you maintain which authorization objects are checked in transactions and maintain the authorization proposals. <br><br>
7)When an authorization check on S_BTCH_JOB fails, what happens? "You do not have authorization to perform whatever operation you are trying to perform." message. HAHA <br><br>
8)Can you have more than one set of org-level values in one role? I might be misinterpreting this question. But yes. Depending on the transactions inserted into the role menu, you could have more than one org level to maintain. Purchasing Org and Plant, Sales Org and Sales Division..... <br><br>
9)Should RFC users have SAP_NEW and why? No. Just insert the transactions and necessary authorization objects into a role. S_RFC for one. <br><br>
10) What is an X-glueb command and where do you use it in SAP security? ??? <br><br>
11) What is the disadvantage of searching for AUTHORITY-CHECK statements in ABAP OO coding and how does SU53 deal with this? Disadvantage? I can think of an advantage. My ABAPer shows me his programs and we work out what authority checks should be performed. <br><br>
12) In which tables can you make customizing settings for the security administration and name one example of such a setting which is usefull but not SAP default? ??? <br><br>
13) Can you use the information in SM20N to build roles and how? You could, I guess. Not a good practice though. Build roles based on business processes. <br><br>
14) If the system raises a message that authorizations are missing but you have SAP_ALL, what do you do? Regenerate SAP_ALL which reconciles new authorization objects from SAP_NEW <br><br>
15) Name any one security related SAP note and explain it's purpose or solution. Don't know the number off hand, but I was looking at it yesterday. Program Z_DEL_AGR to allow deletion of more than one role at a time. There is no mechanism in SAP to achieve this currently. <br><br>
16) What are the two primary difference between a SAML token profile and a Logon ticket in SAP? ??? I know what these are but have no experience with it. <br><br> -
Need interview questions on SAP-XI 3.0
HI all,
Can some body help me.
I am Explicitly luking for NEW (or updated ) interview questions and i am abt to start my interviews from tommorrow.
any idea where i can find more info on SPECIFIC XI interview questions/FAQS other than the available sdn.sap.com website.
Plz help me to go thru this..
I wud surely appreciate ur timely help.
Thanx
VKLHi V L
Some of them are:
-->Steps required to configure a scenario
-->Types of mapping
-->which all configurations you need to do in R/3
for an Idoc to file scenario
-->Questions regarding the interfaces you have worked
on
-->Qestions on adapters eg. Idoc , RFC etc
-->How to configure JDBC Adapter(Sender & Receiver)
-->Qestions on Content conversion
-->Questions on BPM and the step types in BPM.
-->Questions on ALERTS. How to configure Alerts, alert rules, etc.
-->Architecture of XI.
Also check XI FAQs by Michael:
/people/michal.krawczyk2/blog/2005/06/28/xipi-faq-frequently-asked-questions
Kindly go through this link where you will find many interview questions:
/message/1209232#1209232 [original link is broken]
Re: Interview for TCS
Prequisite need in XI and SAP
Re: Provide me some IDOC related docs.
All the very best for your interviews.
---Satish
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