Seeking Efficient Alternatives to SAP's "Distance" String Function for Long Inputs

[chongarian]

Dear Experts,

I am currently utilizing SAP's standard string function "distance" to identify words similar to given inputs. However, I've encountered a significant issue when processing long inputs, as the function takes an extended duration to execute, often exceeding 30 minutes. I suspect this is due to the large number of combinations involved in these instances.

Could you kindly suggest more efficient alternatives to this function that can handle long inputs more effectively?

Your assistance in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

[patrick_winkler · Accepted solution]

The complexity of the function distance( val1 = text1 val2 = text2 [max = max] ) increases in line with the product of the lengths of the two strings. The calculation time can be limited by specifying max.

[chongarian · Accepted solution]

Thank you, Patrick. We will keep it as a default solution. Could you please advise if there is an alternative function or class available that offers improved efficiency?

[patrick_winkler · Accepted solution]

@chongarian: maybe you can try fuzzy search https://community.sap.com/t5/technology-blogs-by-members/what-is-fuzzy-search-how-to-implement-fuzzy...