SAP CDS view as Custom - give steps - 1

While you can't directly copy a CDS view's code and paste it into a new one, you can achieve a similar result by referencing the original view in your new custom view. Here's how:

1. Create a New CDS View

• In your ABAP Development Tools (ADT), right-click on your package and select "New > Other ABAP Repository Object".
• In the wizard, search for "CDS View" and select it. Click "Next".
• Provide a name for your new custom CDS view, ensuring it follows naming conventions. Choose the appropriate type (basic, composite, consumption, or extension) based on your needs. Click "Finish".

2. Define the Data Source

• In the new CDS view definition, use the WITH clause to define a data source based on the existing CDS view you want to copy. This essentially creates a "view on a view".

  define view Z_CUSTOM_VIEW as select from I_EXISTING_VIEW {      // Select the fields you need  }  

  Replace Z_CUSTOM_VIEW with your custom view name and I_EXISTING_VIEW with the name of the CDS view you want to copy.

3. Select Fields and Add Logic (Optional)

• Within the curly braces {}, specify the fields you want to include from the original view. You can select all fields with * or list individual fields.
• This is also where you can add custom logic to your new view. You can:
  • Add calculated fields using expressions.
  • Apply filters using WHERE clauses.
  • Join with other data sources if needed.
  • Add annotations for analytical consumption or OData exposure.

4. Save and Activate

• Save your new CDS view definition and activate it.

Example:

Let's say you want to copy the standard CDS view I_Product and add a calculated field. Here's how your custom CDS view might look:

define view Z_Custom_Product as select from I_Product {      key Product,      ProductName,      ProductPrice,      ProductPrice * 1.10 as IncreasedPrice // Calculated field  }  

Important Considerations:

• Dependencies: Your custom view will be dependent on the original view. Any changes to the original view may affect your custom view.
• Performance: Consider the performance implications of building views on top of existing views, especially with complex logic or large datasets.
• Extensibility: If you only need to add fields or logic to an existing view, consider using CDS view extensions instead of creating a completely new view.
• Standard vs. Custom: Be aware of the differences between standard and custom CDS views, especially regarding upgrades and modifications.

This approach allows you to leverage existing CDS views while tailoring them to your specific requirements. Remember to thoroughly test your custom view to ensure it functions as expected.