Preparing for Business Objects 4.3 End of Life: What You Need to Know

Preparing for Business Objects 4.3 End of Life: What You Need to Know

The end of life (EOL) of a software product usually means that its manufacturer will no longer provide support and maintenance, leaving customers with security risks, vulnerabilities, and limited functionality. Business Objects 4.3, a popular analytics and reporting platform from SAP, is nearing the end of its mainstream maintenance, which means that users who don’t upgrade to a newer version will soon face various challenges. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know to prepare for Business Objects 4.3’s EOL and upgrade to a more secure and reliable solution.

What is Business Objects 4.3?

Business Objects 4.3 is an enterprise-level business intelligence and reporting platform that helps organizations collect, analyze, and present data in meaningful ways. It includes various components, such as the Web Intelligence, Crystal Reports, and Dashboards tools, and can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud. Business Objects 4.3 is used by thousands of companies worldwide, ranging from small businesses to large enterprises.

Why is Business Objects 4.3 Reaching End of Life?

Like any software product, Business Objects 4.3 has a lifespan that is determined by its manufacturer. SAP, the company behind Business Objects, has announced that mainstream maintenance for version 4.3 will end on December 31, 2022. After this date, SAP will no longer release updates, bug fixes, or security patches for Business Objects 4.3. While customers can continue to use the software, they will be at risk of security breaches, data loss, and compliance violations.

What Are the Risks of Continuing to Use Business Objects 4.3?

If you decide to keep using Business Objects 4.3 after its EOL, you’ll face several risks and challenges. First, you’ll be vulnerable to security threats that can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities in the software. Hackers can gain unauthorized access to your data, steal sensitive information, or even plant malicious code that can harm your systems. Second, you’ll miss out on new features and enhancements that newer versions of Business Objects offer. This can make it harder for you to compete in the market, deliver insights to your stakeholders, or comply with regulations. Finally, you may run into compatibility issues with other software or hardware that you use, as newer technologies may not be compatible with Business Objects 4.3.

What Are Your Options?

If you’re currently using Business Objects 4.3, you have several options to prepare for its EOL. The most straightforward solution is to upgrade to a newer version of Business Objects, such as 4.4 or 4.3 SP8. These versions are currently supported by SAP and offer the latest features, security updates, and improvements. Upgrading to a newer version may require some planning, testing, and training, but it’s a worthwhile investment to protect your data and stay competitive.

Another option is to switch to a different business intelligence and reporting platform altogether. Numerous alternatives to Business Objects are available in the market, each with its strengths, weaknesses, and pricing models. Some popular alternatives include Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, QlikView, and Looker. Before choosing a new platform, make sure you evaluate your requirements, budget, and user feedback to pick the one that best fits your needs.

How to Upgrade to a Newer Version of Business Objects

If you decide to upgrade to a newer version of Business Objects, here are some essential steps to follow:

1. Determine the version you want to upgrade to: Consult with SAP or an authorized partner to determine which version of Business Objects is right for your organization.

2. Plan your upgrade: Develop a project plan that outlines the scope, timeline, budget, and resources required for the upgrade. Ensure that you involve all stakeholders, including IT, business users, and project managers.

3. Prepare your environment: Ensure that your hardware, software, and databases are compatible with the new version. Check that your third-party applications and plugins are also up to date.

4. Test and Validate: Conduct thorough testing to ensure that your reports, dashboards, and data sources are functional and accurate. Validate that your security, user roles, and permissions are correctly aligned.

5. Train your users: Provide training to your end-users to help them understand the features, functionalities, and benefits of the new version. This will help them get up to speed faster and use the platform effectively.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the end of life of Business Objects 4.3 requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. By upgrading to a newer version of Business Objects or switching to another BI platform, you can mitigate risks, unlock new features, and stay competitive in your market. Regardless of your choice, make sure you evaluate your options thoroughly, involve all stakeholders, and follow best practices for a successful transition.