Achieving Clean Core with the Updated Clean Core Extensibility White Paper | feat. Marco Matha

Niklas Siemer is joined by Marco Matha to dive deep into the concept of “clean core” and its critical role in enterprise transformation. Learn why keeping your SAP systems clean, up-to-date, and extensible is more important than ever in today’s fast-paced tech landscape. Niklas and Marco break down SAP’s new clean core levels using relatable metaphors, explain the evolution from the classic extensibility model, and share practical advice for developers and architects. Learn about essential tools like the SAP Discovery Center, Guidance Framework, and ABAP Test Cockpit, and get actionable best practices for your clean core journey. Whether you’re a seasoned SAP developer or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights, real-world examples, and even a few personal recommendations to inspire your next steps. Also in this episode: - Clean Core is Essential for Agility: Maintaining a “clean core” in your SAP systems enables organizations to quickly adopt new technologies, reduce technical debt, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. - New Extensibility Levels Clarified: SAP has introduced a four-level model (A–D) for extensibility, making it easier to understand which development approaches are most future-proof and compliant with best practices. - Level A is the Gold Standard: Developing extensions using SAP Build and released APIs (Level A) ensures maximum stability, cloud readiness, and long-term support. - Custom Code Can Hinder Progress: Legacy customizations and undocumented modifications can slow down upgrades and increase maintenance challenges, making clean core compliance even more important. - Tools to Support Your Journey: Resources like the SAP Discovery Center, Guidance Framework, and ABAP Test Cockpit (ATC) help developers assess, govern, and improve the cleanliness of their codebase. - Methodology for Extension Planning: A structured three-phase approach—assess use case, assess technology, and define target solution—guides teams in making informed, strategic extension decisions. - Continuous Learning and Best Practices: SAP provides detailed white papers, open-source projects, and recommended reading (like “Talk Like TED”) to help developers stay informed and continuously improve their skills and solutions. Listen on Spotify: https://sap.to/6053f4sBN Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://sap.to/6055f4sBf Listen on SAP Podcasts: https://sap.to/6056f4sBA Learn more about clean core extensibility: https://sap.to/6058f4sBC 0:00:00 - Introduction & Hosts 0:01:22 - What is Clean Core and Why Does It Matter? 0:02:42 - Benefits of Clean Core for SAP Customers 0:03:01 - The Challenge of Custom Code 0:03:48 - The Five Dimensions of Clean Core 0:04:27 - New Clean Core Extensibility Levels Explained 0:06:41 - Motivation for the New Model & What’s Changed 0:06:54 - Deep Dive: Level A – Cloud Development with SAP Build 0:07:49 - Deep Dive: Level B – Classic APIs and Best Practices 0:09:42 - Level C & D – Internal Objects and What to Avoid 0:11:17 - Recap of All Levels 0:13:07 - Tools and Best Practices for Clean Core 0:14:51 - Methodology: Planning and Implementing Extensions 0:16:21 - Resources: SAP Discovery Center & Guidance Framework 0:17:35 - The Clean Core White Paper 0:18:19 - Book Recommendation & Presentation Skills 0:18:57 - Closing Remarks & Call to Action