Switchable business feature with prices and sales integration

The present disclosure describes methods, systems, and computer program products for providing a remote device remote access to software functions. One method includes providing a list of second software functions to a first remote device that are not accessible by the remote device, wherein the remote device has remote access to a first software function; receiving from the remote device a request for a software function of the provided list of second software functions and upon receiving the request, providing the remote device remote access to the requested software function by transmitting access data for the requested software function to the remote device; and after providing the remote access to the requested software function, receiving from the remote device a deactivation command for the requested software function or the first software function and, based on the deactivation command, deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to software, computer systems, and computer-implemented methods for providing a remote device remote access to multiple software functions that can dynamically be switched on or off.

BACKGROUND

Software products (e.g., networked application (NWAs) can be built upon a platform, where the platform is used as a basis upon which multiple applications are developed “on top” of, or based upon, the platform. As one example, proprietary on-demand business process platforms can be used to create many on-demand products, as well as, networked applications built using at least a portion of the platform. On-demand products can be a fully integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP), or business management software solutions. The on-demand products can be a software-as-a-service (SaaS) system in which software and its associated data are hosted centrally (for example, in a cloud-computing environment), and are accessed by users using a client (e.g., a web browser) over the internet. For data exchange between different software products, data may need to be copied, transferred, or manipulated in other means to be used.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes methods, systems, and computer program products for providing a remote device remote access to multiple software functions that can dynamically be switched on or off.

In a general aspect 1, A computer-implemented method for providing a remote device remote access to software functions, the method comprising the following operations performed by one or more servers (e.g., one or more servers of a cloud computing environment): providing a list of second software functions to a first remote device (e.g., a mobile communication device) that are not accessible by the remote device, wherein the remote device has remote access to a first software function; receiving from the remote device a request for a software function of the provided list of second software functions and upon receiving the request, providing the remote device remote access to the requested software function by transmitting access data for the requested software function to the remote device; after providing the remote access to the requested software function, receiving from the remote device a deactivation command for the requested software function or the first software function and, based on the deactivation command, deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function.

Aspect 2 according to aspect 1, wherein deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function comprises: maintaining the remote access to the software function which is not deactivated.

Aspect 3 according to any one of aspects 1 to 2, wherein deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function comprises: deactivating the remote access to the first software function while maintaining the remote access to the requested software function, or deactivating the remote access to the requested software function while maintaining the remote access to the first software function.

Aspect 4 according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, the operations further comprising: after deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function, receiving an activation command for the respective function and, based on the activation command, activating the remote access of the remote device to the respective function.

Aspect 5 according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the remote access to the requested software function comprises remote access to the first software function augmented by the requested software function.

Aspect 6 according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, the operations further comprising: providing an indication to the first remote device that the list of second software functions comprises one or more software functions that are configured to be combined with the first software function.

Aspect 7 according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, the operations further comprising: accessing data that is locally stored on the remote device, processing the local data and forwarding the processed data from the requested software function to the first software function.

Aspect 8 according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the first software function and the requested software function are embedded in a (e.g., common) programming code on the one or more computers, wherein the code includes code snippets associated with the first software function and code snippets associated with the requested software function, and wherein the code snippets are configured to activate or deactivate their respective software functions independently from each other.

Aspect 9 according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, the operations further comprising: providing the list of second software functions to a second remote device that are not accessible by the second remote device, wherein the second remote device has remote access to a third software function; receiving from the second remote device a second request for the software function requested by the first remote device and upon receiving the second request, providing the second remote device, independently from the first remote device, remote access to the requested software function by transmitting second access data for the requested software function to the second remote device; after providing the second remote device the remote access to the requested software function, receiving from the second remote device a deactivation command for the requested software function or the third software function and, based on the deactivation command, deactivating, independently from the first remote device, the remote access of the second remote device to the requested software function or the third software function.

Reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate exemplary aspects, implementations or embodiments of particular features of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure generally relates to software, computer systems, and computer-implemented methods for providing a remote device remote access to multiple software functions that can dynamically be switched on or off. Specifically, a flexible distribution of remote access of software extensions to remote devices is provided which is especially adapted to cloud-computing network environments. Implementations of the present disclosure described herein may provide one or more of the following advantages:

First, remote access to multiple software functions natively created at one or more servers (e.g., in a cloud computing system) may be provided to remote devices in an easy and rapid manner with near-zero propagation and adoption efforts.

Second, a flexible access to software extensions or additional software is provided independent of platform technology or location of the platform.

Third, a user of a remote device may dynamically switch on and off particular software functions, e.g., depending on a current business requirement.

Fourth, a cloud-computing environment is described that provides a “one-tenant” on-demand remote access to multiple software functionalities.

Fifth, the total cost of ownership in network environments may be reduced.

An on-demand software products can be a software-as-a-service (SaaS) system in which software and its associated data are hosted centrally (for example, in a cloud-computing environment), and are accessed by users using a client (e.g., a web browser) over the internet. The on-demand software product may include functionality for integrated end-to-end business processes across several modules, including Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Financial Management (FM), Project Management (PM), Supply Chain Management (SCM), Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), Human Resources Management (HRM), Executive Management Support (EMS), and Compliance Management (CM). CRM supports processes that span marketing, sales, and service activities. FM can be another module that helps provide companies with a single, up-to-date view of the financial condition by integrating core business processes and financials that span financial, management, accounting, and cash flow management. PM can contain an integrated project management solution. SCM can cover supply chain setup management, supply chain planning and control, and manufacturing, warehousing and logistics. SRM focuses on relationships with supplies, procurement processes aimed at reducing cost, and to perform self-service procurement. HRM spans organizational management, human resources, and employee self-service. EMS can empower management with more control over the business and better decision making, with real time analytics for tracking business aspects. CM helps companies maintain compliance with changing laws and regulations and to meet regulatory standards. Some, all, or other modules or functionalities may exist in particular on-demand products.

The term “tenant” refers to a system providing a set of business applications belonging to or rented by a particular customer or business entity. Several employees of that particular customer or business entity can be users of that tenant and use the business applications provided by or available on this tenant. A “multi-tenant” architecture may provide a single version of the business application, which is centrally hosted in a cloud computing environment and which is provided to multiple tenants. A customer usually may only alter a set of predefined configuration options in the business application within predefined boundaries. This may limit the possibilities to adapt software products such as business or networked applications to the specific needs of the customer, and in particular, usually does not allow to switch functionality on and off in a flexible manner. In contrast to the “one-tenant” architecture described herein, in the conventional “multi-tenant” architecture, multiple tenants may be needed for different bundles of software functions desired by a customer. With the “one tenant” architecture, the customer may augment existing software functions by additional on-demand software functions by using a single tenant, while being provided with dynamic switch on or off functionality for the software functions.

FIG. 1illustrates an example environment100for implementing various features of a system for sharing data across networked applications. The illustrated environment100includes, or is communicably coupled with, a front-end client150a-bwhich represents a customer or a user in a cloud-computing environment and backend server systems102,120. In some instances, the front-end client150a-bmay co-reside on a single server or system, as appropriate. At least some of the communications between the front-end client150a-band the backend servers102,120may be performed across or via network140. In general, environment100depicts an example configuration of a system for establishing business networks using networked applications built on a shared platform in a cloud computing environment, such as environment100. The illustrated system includes development technology and hosted and managed services and applications built on top of the underlying platform technology. In an implementation of the present disclosure described herein, the term “technology” is understood as types of Java development platform, such as e.g., Enterprise JavaBeans® (EJB), J2EE Connector Architecture (JCA), Java Messaging Service (JMS), Java Naming and Directory Interface (JNDI), and Java Database Connectivity (JDBC). In an implementation of the present disclosure described herein, the term “technology” comprises SAP ByDesign platform, Success Factors Platform, ERP Suite technology or in-memory database such as High Performance Analytic Appliance (HANA) platform.

The illustrated environment100ofFIG. 1includes one or more front-end clients150a-b. The front-end client150a-bmay be associated with a particular business application or development context, as well as a particular platform-based application system. The front-end client150a-bmay be any computing device operable to connect to or communicate with at least one of the backend servers102,120using a wireline or wireless connection via the network140, or another suitable communication means or channel. In some instances, the front-end client150a- may be a part of or associated with a business process involving one or more business applications, or alternatively, a remote developer associated with the platform or a related platform-based application.

In general, the front-end client150a-bincludes a processor, an interface, a networked application or application interface, a graphical user interface (GUI), and a memory. In general, the front-end client150a-bincludes electronic computer devices operable to receive, transmit, process, and store any appropriate data associated with the environment100ofFIG. 1. As used in this disclosure, the front-end client150a-bis intended to encompass a personal computer, laptop, tablet PC, workstation, network computer, kiosk, wireless data port, smart phone, personal data assistant (PDA), one or more processors within these or other devices, or any other suitable processing device. The front-end client or tenant150a-bmay be a mobile communication device. For example, the front-end client150a-bmay comprise a computer that includes an input device, such as a keypad, touch screen, mouse, or other device that can accept user information, and an output device that conveys information associated with the operation of one or more business applications, on-demand platforms, and/or the front-end client150a-bitself, including digital data, visual information, or GUI. Both the input and output device may include fixed or removable storage media such as a magnetic storage media, CD-ROM, or other suitable media, to both receive input from and provide output to users of front-end client150a-bthrough the display, namely, the GUI. The networked application or application interface can enable the front-end client150a-bto access and interact with applications and modules in backend server systems using a common or similar platform. It will be understood that there may be any number of front-end clients150a-bassociated with, or external to, environment100. For example, while illustrated environment100includes one front-end client150a-b, alternative implementations of environment100may include multiple clients communicably coupled to the one or more of the systems illustrated. In some instances, one or more front-end clients150a-bmay be associated with administrators of the environment, and may be capable of accessing and interacting with the settings and operations of one or more business applications, and/or other components of the illustrated environment100. Additionally, there may also be one or more additional front-end clients150a-bexternal to the illustrated portion of environment100capable of interacting with the environment100via the network140. Further, the terms “client,” “customer,” and “user” may be used interchangeably as appropriate without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Moreover, while the front-end client150a-bis described in terms of being used by a single user, this disclosure contemplates that many users may use one computer, or that one user may use multiple computers. In general, clients may usually belong to one customer or company. Several employees of the customer, called users, can use the applications deployed on the corresponding client. For instance, the term “client” refers to a system providing a set of business applications belonging to or rented by a particular customer or business entity. Several employees of that particular customer or business entity can be users of that client and use the business applications provided by or available on this client.

The backend servers102,120represent dedicated and/or ad hoc systems built using the platform technology for coordinating collaboration with other systems associated with and executing on platform-related technology. The coordinating system is used to manage and operate the system and clients belonging to a cloud computing environment, providing knowledge of and connections to the various systems, clients, and clients therein. The backend servers102,120are enhanced to provide clients150a-bremote access to software functions managed at the backend servers102,120. The front-end client150a-bcan access certain business applications built upon a similar, or common, on-demand platform. For example, the front-end client150a-bmay request certain data or data objects in a business application running in the backend server102; and the request may be executed via the first backend server102at the second backend server120where the requested data is stored as a master copy. The data stored in the second backend server120may be locked and accessed by the first backend server102, and interacted with the front-end client150a-b. In other instances, the data may be used by an application associated with one of the other backend servers120for processing applications associated with those systems. The environment100is an example and, in alternative implementations, the elements illustrated inFIG. 1may be included in or associated with different and/or additional servers, clients, networks, and locations other than those as shown. For example, one or more of the components illustrated within the backend servers102,120may be located in multiple or different servers, cloud-based or cloud computing networks, or other locations accessible to the backend servers102,120(e.g., either directly or indirectly via network140).

In general, the backend servers102,120can be any server or system that stores, manages, and executes functionality associated with an on-demand platform, including assisting in establishing ad hoc collaboration business networks between two or more users or entities executing applications based on a common platform. In some instances, the backend servers102,120may execute one or more business applications (e.g.,108ofFIG. 1). For example, each backend server102,120may be a Java 2 Platform, Enterprise Edition (J2EE)-compliant application server that includes technologies such as Enterprise JavaBeans® (EJB), J2EE Connector Architecture (JCA), Java Messaging Service (JMS), Java Naming and Directory Interface (JNDI), and Java Database Connectivity (JDBC). In some instances, each of the backend servers102,120may store a plurality of various applications, while in other instances, the backend servers102,120, and130may be dedicated servers meant to store and execute certain business applications built based on the on-demand platform using the on-demand platform technology and on-demand platform business content. In some instances, the backend servers102,120may include a web server or be communicably coupled with a web server, where one or more of the business applications associated with the backend servers102,120represent web-based (or web-accessible) applications accessed and executed through requests and interactions received on the front-end client150a-boperable to interact with the programmed tasks or operations of the corresponding on-demand platform and/or business applications.

At a high level, the backend servers102,120include an electronic computing device operable to receive, transmit, process, store, or manage data and information associated with the environment100. The backend servers102,120illustrated inFIG. 1can be responsible for receiving requests from one or more front-end clients150a-b(as well as any other entity or system interacting with the backend servers102,120, including desktop or mobile client systems), responding to the received requests by processing said requests in an on-demand platform and/or an associated business application, and sending the appropriate responses from the appropriate component back to the requesting front-end client150a-bor other requesting system. Components of the backend servers102,120can also process and respond to local requests from a user locally accessing the backend servers102,120. Accordingly, in addition to requests from the front-end client150a-billustrated inFIG. 1, requests associated with a particular component may also be sent from internal users, external or third-party customers, and other associated business applications, business processes, as well as any other appropriate entities, individuals, systems, or computers. In some instances, either or both an on-demand platform and/or a business application may be web-based applications executing functionality associated with a networked or cloud-based business process.

As used in the present disclosure, the term “computer” is intended to encompass any suitable processing device. For example, althoughFIG. 1illustrates three backend servers102,120, environment100can be implemented using any number of servers, as well as computers other than servers, including a server pool. Indeed, the backend servers102,120may be any computer or processing device such as, for example, a blade server, general-purpose personal computer (PC), Macintosh®, workstation, UNIX®-based workstation, or any other suitable device. In other words, the present disclosure contemplates computers other than general purpose computers, as well as computers without conventional operating systems. Further, the illustrated backend servers102,120may be adapted to execute any operating system, including Linux®, UNIX®, Windows®, Mac OS®, or any other suitable operating system.

The first backend server102is illustrated in details inFIG. 1. The first backend server102includes an interface104, a processor106, a memory110, a business application108, and other components further illustrated inFIG. 2. In some instances, the backend servers102,120and its illustrated components may be separated into multiple components executing at different servers and/or systems. For example, whileFIG. 1illustrates the business application108and the processor106as separate components, other example implementations can include the processor106within a separate system, as well as within as part of the business application's inherent functionality. Thus, while illustrated as a single component in the example environment100ofFIG. 1, alternative implementations may illustrate the backend servers102,120as comprising multiple parts or portions accordingly.

FIG. 1depicts a server-client environment, but could also represent a cloud computing network. Various other implementations of the illustrated environment100can be provided to allow for increased flexibility in the underlying system, including multiple business network coordinator systems performing or executing one or more additional or alternative instances of networked applications and associated with a business application108for one or more different platforms, as well as multiple instances of the business application108and its related functionality. In those instances, the different backend servers102,120and front-end clients150a-bmay communicate with each other via a cloud-based network or through the connections provided by network140.

InFIG. 1, the interface104is used by the first backend server102to communicate with other systems in a client-server or other distributed environment (including within environment100) connected to the network140(e.g., one of the front-end clients150a-b, as well as other clients or backend servers communicably coupled to the network140). The term “interface”104,178a-cgenerally includes logic encoded software and/or hardware in a suitable combination and operable to communicate with the network140. More specifically, the interface104may comprise software supporting one or more communication protocols associated with communications such that the network140or the interface's hardware is operable to communicate physical signals within and outside of the illustrated environment100. Generally, the backend servers102,120may be communicably coupled with a network140that facilitates wireless or wireline communications between the components of the environment100(i.e., among the backend servers102,120and/or one or more front-end clients150a-b), as well as with any other local or remote computer, such as additional clients, servers, or other devices communicably coupled to network140, including those not illustrated inFIG. 1. In the illustrated environment, the network140is depicted as a single network, but may be comprised of more than one network without departing from the scope of this disclosure, so long as at least a portion of the network140may facilitate communications between senders and recipients. In some instances, one or more of the components associated with the backend servers102,120may be included within the network140as one or more cloud-based services or operations.

The term “network” refers to all or a portion of an enterprise or secured network, while in another instance, at least a portion of the network140may represent a connection to the Internet. In the illustrated example, at least a portion of the network140includes a portion of a cellular or mobile data network or other network capable of relaying SMS messages. In some instances, a portion of the network140may be a virtual private network (VPN). Further, all or a portion of the network140can include either a wireline or wireless link. Example wireless links may include 802.11a/b/g/n, 802.20, WiMax®, and/or any other appropriate wireless link. In other words, the network140encompasses any internal or external network, networks, sub-network, or combination thereof operable to facilitate communications between various computing components inside and outside the illustrated environment100. The network140may communicate, for example, Internet Protocol (IP) packets, Frame Relay frames, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) cells, voice, video, data, and other suitable information between network addresses. The network140may also include one or more local area networks (LANs), radio access networks (RANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), all or a portion of the Internet, and/or any other communication system or systems at one or more locations.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the first backend server102includes a processor106. Although illustrated as a single processor106in the backend server102, two or more processors may be used in the backend server102according to particular needs, desires, or particular embodiments of environment200. The backend servers120and102, as well as other backend systems, may similarly include one or more processors. The term “processor” refers to a central processing unit (CPU), a blade, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or another suitable component. Generally, the processor106executes instructions and manipulates data to perform the operations of the backend server102, and, specifically, the functionality associated with the corresponding business application108. In one implementation, the server's processor106executes the functionality required to receive and respond to requests and instructions from the front-end client150a-b, as well as the functionality required to perform the operations of the associated business application108and an on-demand platform, among others.

At a high level, the term “business application” and “networked application” described in this specification refer to any application, program, module, process, or other software that may execute, change, delete, generate, or otherwise manage information associated with the backend server102or the client device150a-b, and in some cases, a business process performing and executing business process-related events. In particular, business processes communicate with other users, applications, systems, and components to send, receive, and process events. In some instances, a particular business application108may operate in response to and in connection with one or more requests received from an associated client or other remote client. Additionally, a particular business application108may operate in response to and in connection with one or more requests received from other business applications external to the backend server102. In some instances, the business application108can be a networked application, for example, the business application108is built on a common platform with one or more applications in either or both of the backend servers120and102. In some instances, the business application108may request additional processing or information from an external system or application. In some instances, each business application108may represent a web-based application accessed and executed by the front-end client150a-bvia the network140(e.g., through the Internet, or via one or more cloud-based services associated with the business application108).

Further, while illustrated as internal to the backend server102, one or more processes associated with a particular business application108may be stored, referenced, or executed remotely. For example, a portion of a particular business application108may be a web service that is remotely called, while another portion of the business application108may be an interface object or agent bundled for processing at a remote system. Moreover, any or all of a particular business application108may be a child or sub-module of another software module or enterprise application (e.g., the backend servers120and130). Still further, portions of the particular business application108may be executed or accessed by a user working directly at the backend servers102, as well as remotely at corresponding front-end client150a-b.

Regardless of the particular implementation, “software” may include computer-readable instructions (e.g., programming code), firmware, wired or programmed hardware, or any combination thereof on a tangible and non-transitory medium operable when executed to perform at least the processes and operations described herein. Indeed, each software component may be fully or partially written or described in any appropriate computer language including C, C++, Java®, Visual Basic®, assembler, Perl®, any suitable version of 4GL, as well as others. It will be understood that while portions of the software illustrated inFIG. 1are shown as individual modules that implement the various features and functionality through various objects, methods, or other processes, the software may instead include a number of sub-modules, third-party services, components, libraries, and such, as appropriate. Conversely, the features and functionality of various components can be combined into single components, as appropriate. In the illustrated environment100, the processor106executes the corresponding business application108stored on the associated backend servers120. In some instances, a particular backend server may be associated with the execution of two or more business applications (and other related components), as well as one or more distributed applications executing across two or more servers executing the functionality associated with the backend servers.

FIG. 1further includes memory110in the backend server102. For example, the backend server102can host a master application for a particular data object, which is stored at the memory110. The data object stored at the memory110may be accessed by other networked applications, for example, by applications of the backend servers120and102. The data access does not require data replication and therefore can be stored at a single location (i.e., the memory110). In addition, the memory110of the backend server120stores data and program instructions for the business application108. The term “memory” refers to any memory or database module and may take the form of volatile or non-volatile memory including, without limitation, magnetic media, optical media, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), removable media, or any other suitable local or remote memory component.

The memory110may store various objects, object models, and data, including classes, frameworks, applications, backup data, business objects, jobs, web pages, web page templates, database tables, process contexts, repositories storing services local to the backend server120and any other appropriate information including any parameters, variables, algorithms, instructions, rules, constraints, or references thereto associated with the purposes of the backend server120and its functionality. In some implementations, including in a cloud-based system, some or all of the memory110may be stored remote from the backend server120and communicably coupled to the backend server120for usage. As described above, memory110can include one or more meta-models associated with various objects included in or associated with the underlying platform. Specifically, memory110can store items and entities related to the business application108and/or other collaboration-related entities or components. Some or all of the elements illustrated within memory110may be stored external to the memory110. These items may be made accessible to the business application108as illustrated inFIG. 2. In an aspect, the term “business object” is a representation of an intelligible business or non-business entity, such as an account, an order, employee, an invoice or a financial report.

FIG. 2illustrates an example environment200for implementing various features of a system for establishing a business network using shared platform. The illustrated environment200includes, or is communicably coupled with, a business network coordinator system103which takes a coordinator role in a cloud-computing environment and one or more tenants: e.g. tenant A175aand tenant B175b. In an aspect, the business network coordinator system103may be one or more application servers, such as backend servers102,120inFIG. 1or servers402,403inFIG. 4. In some instances, the tenants175a,175bmay co-reside on a single server or system, as appropriate, or may each be one of the front-end clients150a-billustrated inFIG. 1. The tenants A175aand B175bmay be associated with a particular business application108,184or development context, as well as a particular platform-based application system. Each tenant A175aand B175bmay be any computing device operable to connect to or communicate with at least one of the business network coordinator system103using a wireline or wireless connection via the network148, or another suitable communication means or channel. In some instances, the tenants A175aand B175bmay be a part of or associated with a business process involving one or more of the business applications184c, or alternatively, a remote developer of associated with the platform or a related platform-based application. In general, each tenant A175aand B175bincludes a processor181a-b, an interface178a-b, an application on platform184a-b, a graphical user interface (GUI)190a-b, and a memory187a-b. In an aspect, the tenants175a-bmay store tenant-specific data (e.g., respective tenant identifiers) in memory187a-band may send 242 this tenant-specific data to the business network coordinator system103for receiving remote access to software functions as described herein in the context of the “one-tenant” architecture. In some instances, tenants A175aand B175bmay be located on a single server in a co-tenancy environment. In those instances, the tenants175a, bmay share some or all of the resources of the server to perform their corresponding operations.

The GUIs190a-bassociated with each tenant A175aand B175bmay comprise a graphical user interface operable to, for example, allow the user of a tenants A175aand B175bto interface with at least a portion of the business application184c, the on-demand platform131, and their associated operations and functionality. Generally, the GUI190a-bprovides the particular user with an efficient and user-friendly presentation of business data provided by or communicated within the system. The GUI190a-bmay comprise a plurality of customizable frames or views having interactive fields, pull-down lists, and buttons operated by the user. For example, the GUI190a-bmay provide interactive elements that allow a user to interact with a particular component within and/or external to environment200. Different portions of the corresponding component's functionality may be presented and accessible to the user through the GUI190a-b, such as through an application on platform184a-b(e.g., a web browser). Generally, the GUI190a-bmay also provide general interactive elements that allow a user to access and utilize various services and software functions of a particular component. In some instances, the application on platform184a-bmay be used to access various portions of different platform-based application systems or the business network coordinator system103. In some instances, the application on platform184a-bmay be an agent or client-side version of the business application184cor other suitable component.

Each of the tenants A175aand B175bincludes a business application on platform184aand184b. The business application on platform184aand224can be realized on a web browser running on a remote computer. As an end user of an SaaS, the tenants A175aand B175bcan access various modules of the business applications184a-bwithout previous local installation of the business applications184a-b, as components of the business application on platforms184aor184bcan be remotely accessed or downloaded246based on the demand of the tenant A175aand B175b.

At least some of the communications between the business network coordinator system103and the tenants A175aand B175bmay be performed across or via network148. In general, environment200depicts an example configuration of a system for establishing business networks using applications built on a shared platform in a cloud computing environment, such as environment200. The illustrated system includes development technology and hosted and managed services and applications built on top of the underlying platform technology. The business network coordinator system103represents a dedicated and/or ad hoc system built using the platform technology for coordinating collaboration with other systems associated with and executing on platform-related technology. The coordinating system is used to manage and operate the system and tenants belonging to the cloud computing environment, providing knowledge of and connections to the various systems, clients, and tenants therein. The environment200is an example and, in alternative implementations, the elements illustrated inFIG. 2may be included in or associated with different and/or additional servers, clients, networks, and locations other than those as shown. For example, one or more of the components illustrated within the business network coordinator system103may be located in multiple or different servers, cloud-based or cloud computing networks, or other locations accessible to the business network coordinator system103(e.g., either directly or indirectly via network148).

In general, the business network coordinator system103is any server or system that stores, manages, and executes functionality associated with an on-demand platform, including assisting in the establishing ad hoc collaboration business networks between two or more users or entities executing applications based on a common platform. In some instances, the business network coordinator system103may execute one or more business applications120. For example, each business network coordinator system103may be one of the backend servers102,120and130illustrated inFIG. 1. In some instances, each business network coordinator system103may store a plurality of various applications, while in other instances, business network coordinator systems103may be dedicated servers meant to store and execute the business applications184c, which is built based on the on-demand platform technology and business content131(“on-demand platform”) using the on-demand platform technology and on-demand platform business content. The coordinator, or central, system103may be one or more dedicated application servers for managing all systems/tenants that are part of a cloud computing environment. In some instances, the business network coordinator system103may comprise a web server or be communicably coupled with a web server, where one or more of the business applications184cassociated with the business network coordinator system103represent web-based (or web-accessible) applications accessed and executed through requests and interactions received on the tenants A175aand B175b(i.e., via applications184a-c) operable to interact with the programmed tasks or operations of the corresponding on-demand platform131and/or business applications184c.

The business network coordinator system103illustrated inFIG. 2can be responsible for receiving application/software function requests240from one or more tenants A175aand B175b(as well as any other entity or system interacting with the business network coordinator system103, including desktop or mobile client systems), responding to the received requests by processing said requests in the on-demand platform131(e.g., store server402ofFIG. 4) and/or the associated business application184c, and sending the appropriate responses246from the appropriate component back to the requesting tenants A175aand B175bor other requesting system. The business network coordinator system103may perform a central landscape server's functionality, e.g. the functionality of cloud solutions landscape directories. Such functionality may comprise storing data packages associated with service extensions, making available the data packages to various platforms that are based on various technologies, and monitoring the network landscape by the system landscape monitor136.

Components of the business network coordinator system103can also process and respond to local requests242from a user locally accessing the business network coordinator system103. Accordingly, in addition to requests242from the tenants A175aand B175billustrated inFIG. 2, requests associated with a particular component may also be sent from internal users, external or third-party customers, and other associated business applications, business processes, as well as any other appropriate entities, individuals, systems, or computers. In some instances, either or both of the on-demand platform131and/or the business application184cmay be web-based applications executing functionality associated with a networked or cloud-based business process.

FIG. 2depicts a server-tenant environment, but could also represent a cloud computing network. Various other implementations of the illustrated environment200can be provided to allow for increased flexibility in the underlying system, including multiple business network coordinator systems103performing or executing one or more additional or alternative instances of the on-demand platform131and associated with a business application184cfor one or more different platforms, as well as multiple instances of the business application184cand its related functionality. In those instances, the different business network coordinator systems103may communicate with each other via a cloud-based network or through the connections provided by network148.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the interface106enables an identity management system141to connect with the business network coordinator system103via a registry connection265. The identity management system141may be used to identify users (e.g., tenants A or B) to whom access to shared data is granted when they access shared data across systems or tenants. The usage of one or more identity management systems provides support for single sign-on services to be supported To avoid re-authentication, the identity management system141can provide the required user mapping. The business network coordinator system103may further include internal or external memory112, which stores software solution packages (SP)118as discussed in context ofFIG. 3, wherein a solution package118may comprise one or more software solutions119and optionally one or more sellable units (SU)124. Remote access to one or more of the software components118,119,124may be provided246via network148to tenants175a-bupon a request received242from the tenants175a-bat the business network network coordinator system103.

The identity management system141can identify and manage users (related to particular tenants) in a system (such as a country, a network, or an organization) and control access to the resources in that system by placing restrictions on the established identities of the tenants. The identity management system141can be multidisciplinary and covers many dimensions, such as technical, legal, security and organizational dimensions. In some implementations, an identity can be constructed from a small set of axiomatic principles. For example, all identities in a given abstract namespace may be unique and distinctive, and/or such identities can bear a specific relationship to corresponding entities in the real world. An axiomatic model of this kind can be considered to express “pure identity” in the sense that the model is not constrained by the context in which it is applied. In general, an entity and/or user can have multiple identities, and each identity can consist of multiple attributes or identifiers, some of which are shared and some of which are unique within a given name space. The identity management system141can perform and/or support user mapping to the same identity, removing a need to re-authenticate uses when the same identity attempts access over a particular tenant or system, such as when accessing collaboration data on different systems. In some instances, the identity management system141may be communicably coupled to the business network coordinator system103via network148.

Generally, the business network coordinator system103may be communicably coupled with a network148that facilitates wireless or wireline communications between the components of the environment200(i.e., between the business network coordinator system103and/or one or more tenants A175aand B175b), as well as with any other local or remote computer, such as additional clients, servers, or other devices communicably coupled to network148, including those not illustrated inFIG. 2

In the illustrated environment200, each processor109executes the corresponding on-demand platform131and the business application148cstored on the associated business network coordinator system103. In some instances, a particular business network coordinator system103may be associated with the execution of two or more business applications184c(and other related components), as well as one or more distributed applications executing across two or more servers executing the functionality associated with the business network coordinator system103. Further, while illustrated as internal to the business network coordinator system103, one or more processes associated with a particular business application184cmay be stored, referenced, or executed remotely. For example, a portion of a particular business application184cmay be a web service that is remotely called, while another portion of the business application184cmay be an interface object or agent bundled for processing at a remote system (not illustrated) or a particular tenant A175aor B175b(e.g., the application on platform184a-b). Moreover, any or all of a particular business application120may be a child or sub-module of another software module or enterprise application (not illustrated) without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Still further, portions of the particular business application184cmay be executed or accessed by a user working directly at the business network coordinator system103, as well as remotely at corresponding tenants A175aand B175b.

The illustrated business application184a-cmay be created and developed based on an underlying software platform or platform layer, which can be used to provide functionality defined by the platform, as well as additional functionality available by building software applications upon the platform layer using components and entities designed or adapted for use with the platform. By creating the additional functionality, the platform can be extended and added to by a plurality of developers, providing for a fluid means of enhancement. In an aspect, the business application184a-care enhanced by environment400, as described below in context ofFIG. 4.

In some instances, additional applications can be built on top of the original system by many different developers and development teams to create new products and software. The on-demand platform131and its corresponding consolidated on-demand platform can maintain a metadata repository115storing information on the various models and their associated definitions and metadata across an entire development ecosystem, while the on-demand platform131may be used on which to create or to base newly developed applications or software functions such as solution packages (SP), solutions (S), or sellable units (SU) as described in context ofFIGS. 3-9.

In some implementations, the business network coordinator system103may include a customer control center132, a system landscape monitoring136, a tenant and system operations manager138, and a collaboration and metadata repository115. The tenant B175bcan be connected to the business network coordinator system103as a potential collaboration partner. The exact released and accessible data are defined and controlled via a user authorization mechanism provided via the on-demand platform on which the business applications184a-bare based. The business network coordinator system103may include the on-demand platform. A functional- and instance-based authorization module, which is part of the on demand platform131, can ensure that users can access only the activated software functions (e.g., in SP, S, SU), where the particular user is authorized to view the activated software functions. The activated or deactivated software functions and services can be managed centrally via the collaboration and data sharing work center provided in the business applications184a-b.

In general, the customer control center132provides one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) to the tenants A175aand B175bfor accessing the operations of the on-demand platform131remotely. In some instances, use of one or more APIs at the Customer control center132can allow for pre-publishing of one or more models to and/or from the business network coordinator system103ofFIG. 2. The customer control center132allows tenants, such as the tenants A175aand B175b, access to the on-demand platform131, and vice versa. The customer control center132may include a graphical user interface for selection of administration tools. For example, the tenants may monitor system health, retrieve system information, execute maintenance program, analyze system performance, improve execution procedure, organize files and information, and perform other control tasks via the customer control center132. In some aspects, the customer control center132enables collaboration functionalities when tenants, such as the tenants A175aand B175b, access and operate on the on-demand platform131via the customer control center132.

The system landscape monitor136can monitor operations, modules, and activities of the business network coordinator system103, as well as those systems associated with the business network coordinator system103, including the tenants175a,band other systems and applications. The system landscape monitor136may be accessed by tenants such as the tenants A175aand B175b. In some implementations, the system landscape monitor136can collect and present a list of active tenants using the on-demand platform131. The system landscape monitor136may categorize the active tenants by areas of business, technology, market orientation, and other aspects of the tenants. In some implementations, the system landscape monitor136can show resource distribution or allocation or both within the business network coordinator system103and enable administrators or tenants with administrator rights to modify and improve the resource distribution or allocation or both.

The tenant and system operation manager138may support communications between tenants, such as tenants A175aand B175band the business network coordinator system103. The tenant and system operation manager138can manage central instances of network establishments between tenants and enable the business network coordinator system103to monitor the network traffic upon establishment agreement from all participants.

FIG. 2further includes memory112. The memory112of the business network coordinator system103stores data and program instructions, as well as metadata associated with the solution packages118, solutions119, sellable units124, and the on-demand platform131. In some implementations, including in a cloud-based system, some or all of the memory112may be stored remote from the business network coordinator system103, and communicably coupled to the business network coordinator system103for usage. As described above, memory112can include one or more meta-models associated with various objects included in or associated with the underlying platform. Specifically, memory112can store items and entities related to the on-demand platform131and/or other collaboration-related entities or components. Some or all of the elements illustrated within memory112may be stored external to the memory112. These items may be made accessible to the on-demand platform131.

The on-demand modules121in memory112may include various functionalities of the business network coordinator system103, and can be selectively provided to some or all of the tenants. As previously described, the on-demand modules121in the business network coordinator system103may include CRM, FM, PM, SCM, SRM, HRM, EMS, CM, and others. In case of CRM in the on-demand module121, the business network coordinator system102may be the CRM server402inFIG. 4. For example, tenant A175amay request services of a subset of the on-demand modules121from the application on platform184a, such as CRM, HRM, and EMS. Tenant B175bmay request a different subset of the on-demand modules121on the application platform184b, such as FM, HRM, and EMS.

Turning now toFIG. 3.FIG. 3describes an exemplary classification of software functionalities, whose access can be provided to the remote device or tenant. In an aspect, a “solution” (S,302) S1, S2, S3is a bundle of software functionalities (F,301) F1-F7with its own branding and with a price tag for the solution. In its programming code it is clearly defined what is in scope for this solution and what is (in some cases, without up-selling) not in scope of this solution. There may be user interfaces included in its functionalities. Inside a solution the customer may select between different business scenarios and scenario variants. A customer may buy additional functionality (“sellable unit”, SU) and enhance the functional scope of his solution. A customer may have several solutions in use in parallel. Examples of a solution are SAP Business ByDesign, SAP Financials OnDemand, SAP Travel OnDemand, SAP Sales & Service OnDemand.

In an aspect, a “solution package” (SP,304) SP1, SP2may combine software functionalities F1-F7from more than one solution S1-S3offered for a dedicated price. The customer gets a collection of functionality F1-F7with a certain solution package SP1, SP2. This can be achieved by combining several solutions in one SP or combining a solution with several sellable units. A solution package may not contain more functionality than the sum of solution functionalities.

In an aspect, a “sellable unit” (SU,303) SU1, SU2includes software functionality F1-7, which can be added to the scope of a solution (S) after an buying process. The sellable unit (SU) may be a value-added feature “on top” of a solution (S). This may allow enhancing of software functions of solutions with software functions of sellable units and provide remote access to such enhanced software packages to the tenant. The term “software function” may thereby be any data processing step. The software functions may show dependencies301a-b, such as data processing steps that require data input from other the output of other functions F1-7. Before buying the SU, the SU's functionality is not available/visible for the customer. A SU is a self-contained optional functionality. The SU might have a pre-requisite in order to be used. Some functionality can be a sellable unit for one solution but standard functionality for another solution. A sellable unit is enhancing the basic functionality of a solution or it is the foundation for additional scenarios/scenario variants in this solution. A SU may not be usable without having a solution (S) activated. For example, the “solution” (S) may be a software function (e.g., programming code) that is self-contained and may be run independently to other functions, while the SU may need to be attached to or embedded in programming code of one or more “solutions” (S). The solution product owner may need to decide what are the sellable units which are to be offered. It might be that a sellable unit is just included in a solution or solution packages but not as own item which can be bought and run stand alone.

In an example aspect, an SP may be SAP Financials OnDemand plus Activity Management, or SAP Financials OnDemand plus Expense Reporting, or SAP Financials OnDemand plus Expense Reporting plus Travel Planning. InFIG. 3, solution package SP2is provided to the remote device (tenant) and comprises solution S1as well as sellable units SU1and SU2. S1comprises software functions F1-3, wherein function F3depends on function F1. SU1includes software function F5, which is also part of solutions S2and S3, which are not part of solution package SP2. SU2includes function F7, which is part of solution S3. Software function F5may be offered as sellable unit SU1as long as it does not have a pre-requisite (dependency) which is not supported by S1. In this example F6may not be a sellable unit because F4is required (which is not part of51.

Turning now toFIG. 4.FIG. 4shows an exemplary implementation for providing a tenant remote access to multiple software functions that can dynamically be switched on or off. Environment400may be environment200ofFIG. 2, e.g., a network such as a cloud computing environment. Environment400may include tenant401(such as tenant175a,binFIG. 2), a CRM server402, a store server403and a service provider cockpit server404. CRM server402, store server403and service cockpit provider404may be one or more servers, such as business network coordination system103inFIG. 2. The entities401,402,403,404may be communicatively coupled by a wired or wireless communication within network400.

In an example aspect, for the case of a new customer being interested in using one or more available software functions, the new customer may contact a sales person for a requested software function the customer desires. The sales person may place an order for the requested software function at the CRM server402. The placement of the order may trigger a provisioning of the customer tenant401. The CRM server may indicate the service provider cockpit404the requested software function (i.e., the solution (S)402a, the sellable unit (SU)402b, or the solution package (SP)402cassociated with the order of the customer). The service provider cockpit404may then create the tenant401, and release the requested software function to the tenant401. In an aspect, the tenant401may be provided with a business configuration (BC) workspace401a, which may be a user interface on the tenant401indicating (e.g., displaying on a screen) software functions (e.g., along with their price to be paid) that have been ordered by the customer and optionally software functions which may be combined with the requested software functions, or which may be added to the existing software portfolio as an alternative software option.

In case the customer wants to add software functionality to his software portfolio, the customer may select at the BC workspace401aone or more of the software functions, which have so far not been accessible by the customer. Such a requested “switch on” of an additional software function may result in a request405being placed at the store server403, where the customer tenant401is recognized (e.g., by a customer identifier included in the request) and, after the customer paid the price, a release of the requested software function, i.e. the solution (S), the sellable unit (SU), or the solution package (SP) associated with the order of the request, is performed via the service provider cockpit404. In general, the release of a software function may include transmitting access data403b, such as a Product and Production Management System (PPMS) key determining if the most recent version of a software function is installed on a system, and can install or upgrade that package from a local or remote host. In an aspect, when the store server403recognizes the customer, it may augment the requested software function by an add-on software function403aprovided by a partner as a part of a loyalty program. The partner add-on software function403amay be combinable with the software functions the tenant401has already remote access to or may be additional separate software functions that may operate independently from the other software functions accessed by the tenant401.

In an aspect, one or more of servers402,403,404may perform operations, comprising: providing a list of second software functions to a first remote device that are not accessible by the remote device, wherein the remote device has remote access to a first software function; receiving from the remote device a request for a software function of the provided list of second software functions and upon receiving the request; providing the remote device remote access to the requested software function by transmitting access data for the requested software function to the remote device; after providing the remote access to the requested software function, receiving from the remote device a deactivation command for the requested software function or the first software function and, based on the deactivation command, deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function. In an aspect, the operations may further comprise: after deactivating the remote access of the remote device to the requested software function or the first software function, receiving an activation command for the respective function and, based on the activation command, activating the remote access of the remote device to the respective function. In an aspect the remote access to the requested software function may comprise remote access to the first software function augmented by the requested software function.

In general, buying the software function process from the CRM server402or the store server403may trigger follow-on operations via the service provider cockpit server404into the customer tenant401. Such follow-on operations may comprise accessing data that is locally stored on the remote device, processing the local data and forwarding the processed data from the requested software function to the first software function, or may include an automatic configuration in the tenant or generation of software artifacts. Additionally a first activation and/or configuration by the customer may be performed as follow-on operations.

Turning now toFIG. 5, which illustrates an exemplary process500of a customer buying a solution (S) in environment400ofFIG. 4. At501, the customer signs a contract for on-demand solution (S1). At502, the order or request is created in CRM server402. At503, a hosting system (e.g.,402,403, or404) receives the order to provide tenant401for on-demand solution (S1). At504, customer gets tenant access data403b. At505, the customer can switch on S1functionalities.

Turning now toFIG. 6, which illustrates an exemplary process600of a customer buying a solution package (SP) in environment400ofFIG. 4. At601, the customer signs contract for on-demand solution package (SP1=S1+SU1). At602, the order or request is created in CRM server402. At603, a hosting system (e.g.,402,403, or404) gets the order to provide tenant401for on-demand solution package (SP1). At604, customer gets tenant access data403b, while at605, hosting gets the order to make sellable unit (SU1) visible in tenant401. At606, the customer can switch on SP1functionalities.

Turning now toFIG. 7, which illustrates an exemplary process700of a customer buying a sellable unit (SU) in environment400ofFIG. 4. At701, the customer is accessing the store403. At702, the customer is buying sellable unit (SU1) in store. At703, a hosting system (e.g.,402,403, or404) gets the order to make sellable unit (SU1) visible in tenant401. At704, the customer can switch on SU1functionalities.

Turning now toFIGS. 8A-8C, which illustrate an exemplary business configuration workspace user interface (UI)800for selecting or deselecting software functions. The BC workspace UI800may comprise one or more icons801athat are configured to be activated (e.g., selected) or deactivated (e.g., deselected) and that are associated with software functions801that may be purchased by the customer (e.g., by the user of the tenant175a-b,401). The customer may select/activate801bor deselect/deactivate801csome of the listed software functions801. In an aspect, once a software function is selected801b, a software function802related to the selected software function801bmay be suggested (e.g., by highlighting the related software function or by automatically activating/selecting the related software function802. In an aspect, the BC workspace UI may indicate a dependency803of the related software function802in relationship to the selected/activated software function801bof the one or more software functions801. In an aspect, the selected/activated software function801bmay require data communication with the related software function802. For example, the selected/activated software function801bmay require as input data from the output of the related software function802. In an aspect, a deselected/deactivated software function801cmay require data communication with a related software function802. For example, the related software function802may require as input data from the output of the deselected/deactivated software function801c.

In an aspect, standard functionality of the BC workspace UI may offer a documentation of the functionality (Tab strip Overview, Relevance) and an explanation (per Scoping Element) why the related software function802is automatically selected or de-selected. In this example ofFIG. 8A, the Business Topic Sales and Service Invoicing is automatically selected because Selling Products and Services Business Package is selected (e.g., by the customer). This Business Topic may not be de-selected as long as the Business Package is selected. The select icon801aof this software function is accordingly in a greyish color, which indicates this for the user. In other examples there are scoping elements which may not be selected as long as other scoping elements are not selected. This is then indicated accordingly in the dependency tab strip803.

In an aspect, the Business Topic Over-The-Counter Sales may be such a dedicated functionality which is not in the standard license of the current customer. As long as this functionality is not bought in store403the appropriate software function may not be selectable. This is indicated by icon801a—here one may want to re-use the standard scoping UI behavior for Scoping software functions801which are automatically de-selected.

InFIG. 8B, the related software function802is an optional function, which can be used together (e.g., the activated software function801bmay be augmented by the related software function802) with the already activated software function801b. In an aspect, the related software function802is an optional function, which can be used in addition and/or in parallel to the already activated software function801b. In an aspect, the dependency803to the already activated software function801bmay be provided to the tenant175a-b,401for display on the UI800. In an aspect, the customer may have the opportunity to access the store server403directly (e.g., via a button804). As an option, the price805may already be displayed with the associated software function801. InFIG. 8C, the BC workspace UI offers the opportunity to filter software functions. Additional filter may be offered to display the functionalities which are not included in the standard license or added to the standard license. In an aspect, an overview806may be provided, which indicates software functions which may have conflicts with other software functions801, further software functions which may be purchased on-demand. In general, the BC workspace UI may be used for a configuration of the software functions, wherein it is visible on the BC workspace UI which software function may be additionally bought or ordered (or has already been bought or ordered) and where the additional software function may enhance the existing business processes. So in addition toFIG. 8Bwhere it is shown that existing constraints may be used to determine what may be bought or ordered this filter inFIG. 8Cmay be a part of the process of augmenting software functions by additional software functions.

Turning toFIG. 9,FIG. 9illustrates an exemplary method or process900for providing to a remote device901remote access to multiple software functions including a dynamic switch on/off of the software functions.

One or more servers902(e.g., CRM server402, store server403or service provider cockpit404inFIG. 4), provision a list of software functions configured to be made remotely accessible to a remote device, such as customer tenant901(tenant401inFIG. 4or tenant175a,binFIG. 2). One or more rules may be defined, which define which sellable units The tenant901may include one or more processors901band a business configuration workspace401a,901a.

At904, the tenant901receives a list of accessible and non-accessible software functions.

At905, the tenant901selects one or more software functions among the non-accessible software functions, and optionally deselecting one or more software functions among the accessible software functions.

At906, the server902receives from the remote device a request for a software function of the provided list of second software functions. The request may include a payment for the requested software function according to a price which has been indicated in the list on the BC workspace901a.

At907, the server902recognizes the remote device and, based on the request, providing the remote device remote access to the requested software function, and optionally inactivating remote access of the deselected software function. In an aspect, the request may include an identifier of the customer tenant, which may be compared to a list of identifiers in a customer database connected to the server902.

At908, the server902transmits access data for the requested software function to the remote device901at which the access data is received.

At909, the customer accesses the selected software function via the BC workspace901a.

At910, the tenant901selects one or more software functions among the non-accessible software functions, and/or deselects one or more software functions among the accessible software functions. Upon step910, process steps906,907,908and909are repeated911, or the process900ends.

The preceding figures and accompanying description illustrate example processes and computer implementable techniques. But environment100,200,300(or its software or other components) contemplates using, implementing, or executing any suitable technique for performing these and other tasks. It will be understood that these processes are for illustration purposes only and that the described or similar techniques may be performed at any appropriate time, including concurrently, individually, or in combination. In addition, many of the steps in these processes may take place simultaneously, concurrently, and/or in different orders than as shown. Moreover, environment100,200,300may use processes with additional steps, fewer steps, and/or different steps, so long as the methods remain appropriate.

In other words, although this disclosure has been described in terms of certain embodiments and generally associated methods, alterations and permutations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art.