A recent Oracle HFM update introduces a significant change for your financial consolidation processes: Business Script Language (BSL). Released in April 2025, this update provides a modern alternative to VBScript and marks a turning point for organizations using HFM.
This transition raises several questions: What does it mean for the scripts that have supported your reports for years? Do you need to take immediate action, or is there still time? How do you ensure a smooth transition without disrupting your financial processes? In this article, you'll find a clear action plan to help your organization prepare for this change.
What is Business Script Language (BSL)? The New Standard
Business Script Language (BSL) is a completely new programming language directly integrated into Oracle HFM. Its introduction is a strategic move by Oracle to ensure the continuity of the HFM platform. The rationale for this shift is that Microsoft is gradually phasing out support for VBScript, the language that has been a standard for decades. By developing its own language, Oracle takes control of HFM’s technological future, offering long-term stability and security.
A Clear Roadmap: The Phasing Out of VBScript
The introduction of BSL follows a carefully planned timeline. While you can currently choose between VBScript and BSL, Oracle has announced two key dates:
- October 2026: Starting with the October 2026 patch, BSL will become the default language. VBScript will only receive critical fixes from that point onward.
- October 2027: A year later, with the October 2027 patch, VBScript is expected to be fully phased out of HFM and will no longer be supported.
Keep in mind that this schedule is partly dependent on Microsoft’s plans to phase out VBScript, so it may still change. However, the message is clear: the future of scripting in HFM is Business Script Language.
VBScript vs. BSL: What Really Changes for You?
The major question during a transition like this is how it will impact your existing work. How much effort will it take to migrate your current scripts? Oracle has tried to make this transition as seamless as possible. The syntax and core functions of BSL are very similar to VBScript, allowing much of the existing logic to be carried over with ease.
A Key Detail: The Nuance of 'Most'
However, there is a crucial nuance. In the official documentation, Oracle states: “Business Script Language (BSL) uses the same syntax as VBScript, supporting most built-in VBScript functions...”
The word "most" is of great importance here. It implies that not all VBScript functions are supported one-to-one in BSL. A specific function that is critical to your unique consolidation or reporting logic might work slightly differently or require an adjustment. This underscores the need for thorough testing before making the final switch. Blindly migrating your scripts is not an option if you want to guarantee the reliability of your financial data.
How to Prepare for the Switch to BSL
A successful migration requires a structured approach. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:
- Take Inventory of Your Scripts: List all active VBScript files and their functions.
- Set Up a Test Environment: Create a secure testing environment to install the update and experiment with BSL.
- Test Extensively: Run all your scripts in BSL and check for discrepancies in calculations or validations.
- Optimize Your Code: Adjust your scripts and improve your code wherever possible.
The Future of Oracle HFM: More Stable Than Ever
The latest Oracle HFM update sends a clear message that Oracle is committed to the future of the Hyperion 11.2 suite. The investment in Business Script Language (BSL) and the extension of Premier Support through at least 2036 highlight this dedication.
For organizations relying on HFM for financial consolidation and close processes, this provides much-needed reassurance. The introduction of BSL ensures the platform’s technological longevity, giving you a stable, secure, and fully supported application for delivering reliable financial insights.
Ensure a Future-Proof HFM Environment with Finext
With the right preparation, transitioning to BSL doesn’t have to be a complex project. Finext can help you inventory, test, and migrate your scripts to ensure your HFM environment runs smoothly and is ready for the years ahead.
Want to make sure your HFM application performs at its best? Contact us to see how we can support you in building a stable and future-proof system.
