If there is a requirement to restrict the key figures in the variable screen of a BEx Query, you have to work with some sort of workarounds ( formula variables, zero suppression and so on). With BW 7.4 SP8 another option is now available. It is called Visibility of Structure Members. Once activated a new selection in the variable screen of a BEx query is visible.

How does it look like?

Following example is based on a sales query from business content. If the query is called in the usual way, the variable screen will look like this:

Once the Visibility of Structure Members is activated, you’ll find a new key figure section where you can select the required key figures:

How does it work?

The new option can be found under the properties of the Key figures (Structure), second Tab Display:

If this is set to “Switchable via Default Variable” the key figure selection is automatically being added to the variable screen. The logic for displaying  key figures is explained in the corresponding SAP Help section Visibility of structure elements.

There it is also mentioned that the technical name of the query element is specified which can be found under the key figure properties:

So far I have not seen many systems where the technical name has been used for reporting. But for this feature it is pretty important as otherwise only the generated query element id (UID) would be displayed which might be confusing for the users.

Summary

I think this is a useful alternative where selection of key figures is required. Compared with other solutions it is very easy to use. The only thing which I personally do not think is optimal at this point, is the fact, that the order of new variable can’t be influenced as with the other variables (Query Properties / Variable Sequence).

As mentioned before this is only available from 7.4 SP8 onwards. If you are on this release you should also check that a recent version of the query designer is being used (BI Addon for 7.3 SP8 or BI Addon for 7.4 SP1).