SAP Analytics Cloud

Basic Information

SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) is a comprehensive, cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution that unifies business intelligence (BI), augmented analytics, predictive analytics, and enterprise planning in a single platform. It is the analytics layer of the SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP).

• Model: SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC)
• Version: Updates are released quarterly for productive customer tenants. For example, Q1 2025, Q2 2025, Q3 2025, and Q4 2025 releases occur in February, May, August, and November, respectively.
• Release Date: Initially released in November 2015, then known as SAP Cloud for Analytics, and later SAP BusinessObjects Cloud.
• Minimum Requirements: Primarily web browser-based, requiring an internet connection.
• Supported Operating Systems: Not dependent on a specific operating system for its core functionality, as it is accessible through a web browser. For client-side access, it supports Microsoft Windows 10 or higher and Apple macOS Catalina (10.15) or higher. Mobile apps are available for iOS (15.0 or above) and Android.
• Latest Stable Version: Follows a quarterly release cycle (QRC).
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly defined as a fixed date due to its SaaS model with continuous updates. Support is ongoing with the subscription.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly defined due to its SaaS model with continuous updates.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Updates are automatically applied quarterly for productive customer tenants.
• License Type: Subscription-based, typically per user per month. Common tiers include Business Intelligence (BI), Planning Standard, and Planning Professional, with capabilities building upon each other.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). It can be deployed in an "enterprise" (standalone) scenario or an "embedded" scenario within other SAP applications like SAP S/4HANA Cloud or SAP SuccessFactors.

Technical Requirements

SAP Analytics Cloud is a web-based application, so client-side technical requirements are minimal and primarily revolve around internet connectivity and browser compatibility.

• RAM: For mobile iOS devices, a minimum of 2 GB RAM is required, with 3 GB recommended for optimized stories and analytic applications. For desktop clients, specific RAM requirements are not detailed beyond general browser needs.
• Processor: For mobile devices, a fast processor is recommended for the best experience. For desktop clients, general processor capabilities sufficient for modern web browsing are adequate.
• Storage: A minimum recommended browser cache size of 250 MB is advised.
• Display: XGA 1024x768 (high color) or higher, with widescreen 1366x766 or higher recommended. A browser zoom level of 100% is supported for designing or viewing stories.
• Ports: Requires standard HTTP/HTTPS ports for internet connectivity. Specific port requirements for data connections depend on the source system (e.g., tunnel connections for SAP BW/S/4HANA).
• Operating System: Client access is supported on Microsoft Windows 10 or higher and Apple macOS Catalina (10.15) or higher. Mobile apps are available for iOS (15.0 or above) and Android.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for SAP Analytics Cloud are predominantly client-side and lightweight, reflecting its SaaS nature. The emphasis is on a stable internet connection and a modern web browser. This design minimizes the burden on end-user hardware, making it accessible across a wide range of devices. Mobile access is well-supported with dedicated applications, indicating a focus on flexibility and on-the-go analytics. The requirements for browser cache and display resolution are standard for modern web applications, ensuring a smooth user experience.

Support & Compatibility

SAP Analytics Cloud offers extensive support and compatibility options, leveraging its position within the SAP ecosystem and its cloud architecture.

• Latest Version: Quarterly Release Cycle (QRC) ensures regular updates with new features and bug fixes.
• OS Support: Client access supports Microsoft Windows 10+ and Apple macOS 10.15+. Mobile apps are available for iOS 15.0+ and Android.
• End of Support Date: Continuous support is provided as part of the SaaS subscription model.
• Localization: The add-in for Microsoft PowerPoint is available in all SAP Analytics Cloud languages supported by Microsoft 365.
• Available Drivers: SAP Analytics Cloud connects to various data sources, including SAP BW, SAP BW/4HANA, SAP S/4HANA, SAP HANA, SAP Datasphere, and non-SAP applications. Connections can be live or via data import.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

SAP Analytics Cloud demonstrates strong support and compatibility, primarily due to its SaaS delivery model and deep integration with the SAP landscape. Regular quarterly updates ensure users always have access to the latest features and security patches. Its browser-agnostic nature for core functionality, coupled with dedicated mobile apps, provides broad accessibility. The extensive list of supported data sources, both SAP and non-SAP, highlights its versatility as a central analytics platform. The continuous nature of support, inherent in a subscription model, offers ongoing assistance and maintenance.

Security Status

SAP Analytics Cloud incorporates robust security features designed to protect data and ensure compliance within its cloud environment.

• Security Features: Includes built-in settings for securing models and limiting data access. It offers user and role-based authorization, access control, and audit trails.
• Known Vulnerabilities: The platform undergoes regular security updates to address potential vulnerabilities.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable as a service; security reputation is maintained through certifications and continuous updates.
• Certifications: Leverages the security of the SAP Business Technology Platform. Specific certifications like ISO, SOC, or GDPR compliance are typically part of the broader SAP cloud offerings.
• Encryption Support: Data is encrypted both in transit (between user device and server) and at rest (stored on the server).
• Authentication Methods: Supports various authentication options, including Single Sign-On (SSO) using SAML or OAuth, and password-based authentication.
• General Recommendations: Administrators can define precise control over user permissions and access to data and functionality. Managing security for a large user base can be complex, requiring careful configuration of roles and data access controls.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

SAP Analytics Cloud provides a strong security posture, with comprehensive features for data protection, access control, and authentication. The encryption of data in transit and at rest, coupled with robust authorization mechanisms, helps safeguard sensitive information. Its foundation on the SAP Business Technology Platform further enhances its security framework. While managing granular security for large organizations can be complex, the tools are available to implement stringent controls. Regular updates and adherence to industry best practices contribute to a high overall security rating.

Performance & Benchmarks

As a cloud-based SaaS solution, performance for SAP Analytics Cloud is experienced through user interaction and data processing capabilities, rather than traditional hardware benchmarks.

• Benchmark Scores: Publicly available benchmark scores are not typical for SaaS platforms like SAP Analytics Cloud. Performance is measured by real-world user experience.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Users report that the interface is clean and intuitive, making navigation easy. It centralizes and simplifies data collection, analysis, and presentation, providing real-time insights. However, performance can slow down when handling very large datasets or with multiple concurrent users.
• Power Consumption: Not directly applicable to end-user devices. Power consumption and carbon footprint are managed at the data center level by SAP as the cloud provider.
• Carbon Footprint: Not directly applicable to end-user devices. Managed by SAP as the cloud provider.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: SAP Analytics Cloud is a competitor to analytical tools like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Qlik Sense, offering a unified platform for BI, planning, and predictive analytics. It distinguishes itself by combining analytics and planning in a single cloud solution and its deep integration with SAP applications.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

SAP Analytics Cloud generally delivers good real-world performance, particularly in its ability to centralize data and provide real-time insights for business intelligence and planning. Its cloud-native architecture allows for scalability and flexibility. However, like many cloud solutions, performance can be impacted by the volume of data and the number of concurrent users, leading to potential slowdowns with very large datasets. Its strength lies in its integrated approach to analytics and planning, offering a comprehensive solution that can streamline processes and improve decision-making.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for SAP Analytics Cloud highlight its strengths in data visualization, integration, and comprehensive analytics capabilities, while also noting some areas for improvement.

• Strengths:
  • User-friendly interface and easy navigation.
  • Effective and efficient data analysis capabilities.
  • Exceptional data visualization capabilities, making insights accessible and actionable.
  • Strong predictive analytics and AI features for enhanced decision-making and dashboard creation.
  • Ability to unify data from various sources into a single platform, saving time and providing a clear, real-time view of performance.
  • All-in-one platform for BI, planning, and predictive analytics, reducing the need for multiple tools.
  • Robust support system with documentation, tutorials, and responsive customer support.
• Weaknesses:
  • Can feel complex to navigate, especially for new users.
  • Performance can slow down when handling very large datasets or with multiple users.
  • Information can sometimes be not very summarized, requiring additional refinement.
  • Integration with services outside the SAP ecosystem can be challenging.
  • Downloading extensive information can be time-consuming.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Centralizing and simplifying data collection, analysis, and presentation.
  • Spotting trends, tracking KPIs, and making quick, informed decisions.
  • Budget planning and predictive analysis.
  • Creating data reports and visualizing data from various sources.
  • Collaborative planning and forecasting across business units.

Summary

SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) is a powerful, cloud-native SaaS solution that integrates business intelligence, planning, and predictive analytics into a single platform. Its core strength lies in providing a unified environment for data analysis and decision-making, leveraging its deep integration with the SAP ecosystem and supporting a wide array of data sources, both SAP and non-SAP.

Strengths: SAC offers a user-friendly interface, robust data visualization capabilities, and advanced predictive analytics powered by AI and machine learning. It excels at centralizing data, providing real-time insights, and streamlining planning processes, making it a valuable tool for strategic decision-making. The subscription-based model with continuous quarterly updates ensures access to the latest features and ongoing support. Security is a key focus, with comprehensive features like data encryption, role-based access control, and various authentication methods.

Weaknesses: Some users find the platform complex, especially when new to it. Performance can be a concern with extremely large datasets or high concurrent user loads. Integration with non-SAP systems, while possible, can sometimes present challenges. The level of detail in some reports may require additional refinement, and downloading large data volumes can be slow.

Recommendations: SAP Analytics Cloud is highly recommended for organizations seeking a comprehensive, cloud-based solution for integrated analytics and planning, particularly those already invested in the SAP ecosystem. It is ideal for businesses looking to consolidate their BI, planning, and predictive capabilities into a single platform to drive agile decision-making. Organizations should plan for user training to mitigate the initial learning curve and optimize data models for performance when dealing with very large datasets. For businesses with significant non-SAP data sources, thorough planning for integration strategies is advisable.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.