In previous blogs on streamlining SAP processes with Azure OpenAI, Copilot Studio, and the Power Platform and then enhancing the scenarios using Principal Propagation and Adaptive cards we explored how these tools can transform business workflows. Since then, there has been an exciting new change in the SAP Power Platform connector space that simplifies and cuts down on many of the steps it takes to implementing Principal Propagation. The SAP OData connector now supports Single Sign-On (SSO) support on the Power Platform. After taking into account the feedback and requirements from customers, the SSO capability of the connector proved to be the most in-demand feature during our previews. This enhancement not only simplifies the login process but also brings a host of benefits to SAP users.
Simplified Access with Single Sign-On
The OData connector now allows users to log in using their Microsoft Identities, streamlining the authentication process. This means that users no longer need to remember multiple credentials for different systems. With SSO, once you are logged into your Microsoft account, you can access SAP data through the Power Platform or through your bot deployed on Copilot Studio without additional logins. This integration enhances security and user experience by reducing the friction associated with multiple logins.
Benefits of the OData Connector
- Enhanced Security: SSO ensures that user credentials are managed centrally, reducing the risk of password-related security breaches and complications. The SAP authorizations for the Microsoft user are preserved, ensuring compliance is maintained.
- Improved Productivity: With easier access to SAP data, users can focus more on their tasks rather than dealing with login issues while using Copilot Studio bots or Power Automate flows.
To demonstrate how easy it is to use and what goes on behind the scenes, let’s see how the Copilot Studio scenarios shown in the previous blogs work by replacing the ERP connector with the OData connector in Power Automate. The new architecture looks like the image below, with the addition of the Single -Sign on through the OData connector.
To implement the Single -Sign on using Microsoft Entra ID, you can follow the comprehensive guides here on the Power Platform Community post as well as the Microsoft Learn article.
After you set that up, all you need to do is add in the OData connector into the Power Platform flow and choose Entra ID as the sign-on method (as shown in the example below) and create the connection.
To access the Power Automate flows and the instructions on how to recreate the scenario in the previous blogs using the new OData connector, you can visit the GitHub repository here.
These guides will help you seamlessly integrate SSO OData Connector into your workflows, ensuring a smooth and secure user experience.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, by simplifying the authentication process and centralizing user credentials, The OData Connector with Single Sign-On (SSO) not only improves security but also boosts productivity by reducing login-related friction. The seamless access to SAP data through Microsoft identities ensures a smooth and secure user experience, enabling users to focus on their tasks without the hassle of multiple logins. This advancement marks a significant step forward in streamlining SAP processes and enhancing overall efficiency.