Book excerpt: Now you can proactively avoid administration problems with CRM Middleware - whether they be performance losses or even complete system freezes - using this comprehensive book, based on the extensive experience of SAP Active Global Support. You'll learn the basics of data processing in the Middleware (input processing, validation, output processing) and get concrete troubleshooting advice. Plus, uncover a vast array of optimization options for all critical parts of the Middleware, as well as practical instruction on how to avoid system freezes and on how to handle those freezes once they've occurred. Based on CRM Release 5.0, this book is also highly useful for those still working with the older Release 4.0. In addition, wherever possible, the authors also provide you with sneak previews of the upcoming release 6.0 as well. Highlights Include: * Input processing and validation * Output processing * BDoc modelling and storage * Groupware integration * Exchanging your own data * Replication & Realignment * XML * Reorganizing the Middleware * Mass changes * Roadmaps for analyzing the Middleware