ABAP Functions

ABAP (Advanced Business Application Programming) is a programming language developed by SAP for developing applications for the SAP R/3 system. Functions in ABAP are reusable procedures that can be used to perform specific tasks. Here’s an overview of ABAP functions:

1. Function Modules

Function modules are encapsulated pieces of code that can be called from any ABAP program. They are created in the Function Builder, and each function module is part of a function group.

Syntax

CALL FUNCTION 'function_name'
  EXPORTING
    parameter1 = value1
  IMPORTING
    parameter2 = value2
  TABLES
    table1    = itab1
  EXCEPTIONS
    exception1 = 1.

2. Subroutines

Subroutines (also known as PERFORMs) are blocks of code that can be called from within the same program or from other programs.

Syntax

PERFORM subroutine_name USING parameter1 parameter2.

3. Methods

Methods are procedures defined within a class and can be either static or instance methods. Methods encapsulate behavior and can be used for object-oriented programming in ABAP.

Syntax

CALL METHOD object->method_name
  EXPORTING
    parameter1 = value1
  IMPORTING
    parameter2 = value2.

4. Function Modules vs Methods

• Function Modules: Are part of function groups, allow exception handling, and are generally used for modularizing global functionalities.
• Methods: Are part of classes, used in object-oriented programming, and can be inherited, providing more flexibility in code reuse.

Conclusion

ABAP functions, whether they are function modules, subroutines, or methods, are essential for creating modular, reusable, and maintainable code in SAP applications.