What is the preferred way to create a procedure?

The preferred way to create a procedure in SAP HANA is to create a .hdbprocedure file. Using a .hdbprocedure file aligns with SAP HANA’s development guidelines, which emphasize the use of repository-based development. This method allows developers to effectively manage object definitions, version control, and the deployment of database artifacts within the HANA environment.

When you create a procedure using a .hdbprocedure file, you can define the input parameters, logic, and output parameters in a structured way that integrates seamlessly with HANA's development workflows. This approach empowers developers to take advantage of HANA's features such as code reusability, modular design, and better organization of database objects.

Other options like the Import menu in SAP Web IDE, creating a .procedure file, or using the CREATE PROCEDURE statement directly in the SQL console can be used for creating procedures, but they do not adhere as closely to best practices for development within the HANA ecosystem as creating a .hdbprocedure file does. This means that while they may be valid methods, they are not the preferred or most efficient ways to establish procedures in a way that optimally leverages HANA's development capabilities.