Q&A from EPM 11.2 Webinar

During our ODTUG EPM 11.2 Webinar on March 12th, we weren’t able to get to everyone’s questions, so we had to rush through it. Without further ado, here’s the questions submitted in writing by attendees. I’ll discuss them in no particular order and exactly as they were submitted.

Q: Does 11.2 still have rapid deployment option?
A: Yes.

Q: So no more CopyApp Utilities to migrate HFM Apps between environments?
A: No, the venerable HFMCopyApplication utility was deprecated in 11.1.2.4. In theory, the latest patch of the utility from 11.2.3.7xx could work, followed by running the HFMUpgradeApplication utility. In practice, I believe Oracle Support would advise migrating via the HFM LCM Snapshot instead (if, and only if, you are on 11.1.2.4). Or, use the Import Application link in Navigate->Administer->Consolidation Applications.

Q: Is RCU schema/database needed per application server or per environment?
A: One per application server. A pure Essbase server with no WebLogic web apps wouldn’t need it.

Q: Is Windows Server 2019 only supported or okay to install Windows Server 2012 or 2016?
A: In theory, yes you can put 11.2 on either Server 2012 R2 or 2016. I’ve done it myself. In practice, I’d advise against it using 2012 and 2016. You want to use server operating systems specifically vetted and certified by Oracle Corporation. Oracle has only certified Server 2019 at this time for 11.2.

Q: Any word on Oracle 18c or 19c support?
A: Terrific question and I’m getting asked this more and more. I’m told by DBAs that 19c is essentially 12c technology with bugfixes sitting on top of it. I know of at least one customer who is using 19c successfully for their EPM 11.1.2.4 system. I would love to see certification from Oracle on 19c.

Q: Understand Financial Reports with Essbase connection cannot be migrated from 11.1.2.4 to 11.2? Is that right?
A: The Essbase connection type is visible as a drop-down in Database Connection Manager. I’ll need one of my report developers to kick the tires to see if it works. Sorry I don’t have a definitive answer yet!

Q: Hello, how can I save the nodemanager password so when I start OHS I don’t have to type the password in windows?
A: Yes!  The syntax is all on one line:
\Oracle\Middleware\user_projects\epmsystem1\httpConfig\ohs\bin\startComponent.cmd ohs_component storeUserConfig
You only need to do this one time per OHS server. Be mindful that if a different userID needs to perform restart maintenance, that person either needs to be trained on this process, or you put it in a script for them to double-click. You will be prompted to type in epm_admin’s password, and then you won’t be asked again.

Q: Will you be supported by oracle if you install 11.2 on ANYTHING other than Windows 2019 server.
A: I can’t answer for Oracle on this point. Depending upon who is assigned to work on your SR, someone might kick it back at you. My personal recommendation is to use certified operating systems only – especially where Production is concerned.

Q: Any word on when Rhel7 server version for EPM 11.2 will come out? Other than soon?
A: “Soon”.  🙂  I have not received any specific guidance beyond what is available for public consumption.

Q: Users will probably miss the Home page in 11.2. Any workaround, or plan for bringing that back?
A: As a workaround, users can set their preferences so a specific app launches upon login. The loss of the Home page is a byproduct of the architectural change that removed Reporting & Analysis Framework.

Q: What is the replacement for the HFR studio thick client?
A: The Reporting Web Studio is available within EPM Workspace and was first introduced by Financial Reporting patch set update 11.1.2.4.700. In 11.1.2.4.7xx there’s a manual OHS configuration step before it appears to users. It works out-of-the-box in 11.2 without needing to manually update OHS. Several PSUs were issued since then which improved parity with the thick client. Customers who are on 11.1.2.4.700 or higher are urged to become familiar with the web studio before making the jump to 11.2. Alternatives would be saved SmartView templates or other technology.