SAP Concur

Basic Information

SAP Concur is a suite of cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions designed for integrated travel, expense, and invoice management. It operates as a continuously updated platform rather than having distinct model or version numbers in the traditional sense.

• Model: Cloud-based suite of solutions (Concur Expense, Concur Travel, Concur Invoice, Concur Request).
• Version: Continuously updated cloud service.
• Release Date: Not applicable; continuous development and deployment.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires modern web browsers with JavaScript and AJAX support.
• Supported Operating Systems: Supports operating system versions that are actively maintained and supported by their original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This includes modern desktop operating systems like Microsoft Windows and macOS, and mobile operating systems such as iOS and Android.
• Latest Stable Version: As a cloud service, it is always the latest deployed version.
• End of Support Date: Not applicable for the service itself; tied to OEM support lifecycle for client operating systems and browsers.
• End of Life Date: Not applicable for the active service.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable; updates are continuous and automatic as part of the SaaS model.
• License Type: Subscription-based (Software-as-a-Service).
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based.

Technical Requirements

SAP Concur, being a cloud-based application, primarily relies on client-side hardware and network capabilities for optimal performance. Specific hardware requirements for the client device are general, focusing on modern computing standards to ensure smooth operation of web browsers and mobile applications.

• RAM: For general SAP cloud solutions, a minimum of 6 GB is recommended for client devices.
• Processor: For general SAP cloud solutions, an Intel Core 2 Duo (2.4 GHz) or better is recommended for client devices.
• Storage: Minimal local storage required, as data is primarily cloud-based. Mobile apps require storage for installation and cached data.
• Display: A minimum resolution of 1280 x 768 is recommended for optimal display of web interfaces.
• Ports: Standard network ports for internet connectivity.
• Operating System: Modern desktop operating systems (e.g., Windows 10/11, macOS) and mobile operating systems (e.g., Android 7.0+, recent iOS versions) that receive active support from their respective manufacturers.

Analysis of Technical Requirements: The technical requirements for SAP Concur are largely client-side and align with those of any modern web or mobile application. The platform leverages AJAX and JavaScript for a responsive user interface, necessitating up-to-date browsers and operating systems. This approach minimizes specific hardware demands on the end-user, shifting the computational burden to SAP's cloud infrastructure. Network bandwidth is a more critical factor, with a minimum of 500-800 kbit/s per user suggested for general SAP cloud applications to ensure a responsive experience. The system's reliance on OEM-supported browsers and OS versions ensures compatibility with evolving web standards and security protocols.

Support & Compatibility

SAP Concur maintains broad compatibility and offers comprehensive support as a cloud service.

• Latest Version: The service is continuously updated, ensuring users always access the latest features and security enhancements.
• OS Support: Compatible with currently supported versions of Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. As of January 2021, the minimum supported Android OS version was 7.0.
• End of Support Date: Support for client operating systems and browsers is aligned with the respective OEM's end-of-life policies. SAP Concur discontinues support for browser and OS versions no longer supported by their manufacturers.
• Localization: Supports multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese, and Brazilian Portuguese. Thai language support is available with the Thailand country pack.
• Available Drivers: Not applicable; as a cloud-based SaaS solution, it does not require specific hardware drivers. It relies on standard web browser and mobile device functionalities.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: SAP Concur demonstrates a robust support and compatibility posture, primarily due to its cloud-native architecture. The continuous update model ensures users benefit from the latest functionalities and security measures without manual intervention. Compatibility is maintained by adhering to the support lifecycles of major operating system and browser vendors, which is a standard practice for SaaS applications. This strategy offloads the burden of compatibility management from the end-user and IT departments. Extensive localization options cater to a global user base, enhancing usability and adoption across different regions. The absence of traditional driver requirements simplifies deployment and maintenance, as the service functions through ubiquitous web and mobile interfaces.

Security Status

SAP Concur prioritizes data security and compliance, integrating various features and adhering to international standards.

• Security Features: Data encryption (in transit and at rest using AES-256), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On (SSO) with SAML-based support, regular security updates, mobile device management (MDM) support, and biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) for mobile applications.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities are publicly detailed in the provided information, but SAP Concur conducts annual vulnerability assessments and regularly updates its mobile app to address potential issues.
• Blacklist Status: No information available regarding blacklist status.
• Certifications: ISO 27001, ISO 9001, ISO 27017, ISO 27018, ISO 22301, PCI DSS Level 1, SOC1 Type II, SOC2 Type II, KRITIS, CSA STAR, FedRAMP (for Public Sector), ACSC IRAP, Spain ENS, ISMAP, BS10012:2017, and GDPR compliance.
• Encryption Support: Supports encryption of data both in transit and at rest, utilizing AES-256, one of the strongest available encryption algorithms.
• Authentication Methods: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On (SSO) via SAML, and biometric authentication (fingerprint and facial recognition) for mobile access.
• General Recommendations: Beyond built-in safeguards, proactive access governance, continuous monitoring, automated remediation, and enforcement of access policies are recommended for comprehensive security.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: SAP Concur maintains a strong overall security posture, evidenced by its extensive list of certifications and compliance with global security and privacy standards. The implementation of robust security features like AES-256 encryption for data at rest and in transit, MFA, SSO, and biometric authentication significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches. Regular internal and third-party audits, along with continuous updates, demonstrate a commitment to identifying and mitigating potential vulnerabilities. While no specific known vulnerabilities are detailed, the proactive approach to security updates and assessments is a positive indicator. The emphasis on access governance as a critical layer beyond basic controls highlights a mature understanding of enterprise security challenges. This comprehensive approach positions SAP Concur as a secure solution for managing sensitive financial and personal data.

Performance & Benchmarks

SAP Concur focuses on operational efficiency and provides tools for performance analysis rather than raw computational benchmarks.

• Benchmark Scores: No specific numerical benchmark scores for the software's processing speed or resource utilization are publicly available.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Users report increased efficiency, reduced manual workloads, streamlined expense reporting, and faster processing of invoices. However, some users note issues with slow performance, glitches, and frequent crashes, particularly with the mobile app.
• Power Consumption: Not applicable for a cloud-based software service. Client-side power consumption depends on the user's device.
• Carbon Footprint: SAP Concur offers features to help organizations analyze and reduce their carbon footprint related to business travel. This includes highlighting sustainable travel options, integrating with tools like TripIt for carbon offsetting, and providing data for emissions reporting.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Benchmarking reports are available to allow customers to compare their travel and expense program performance against global peers. Some user feedback suggests that the user interface can feel dated compared to competitors like Expensify.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: SAP Concur's performance is primarily measured by its ability to streamline business processes and improve operational efficiency. Many users experience significant benefits in terms of time savings and automation in expense and travel management. The platform's ability to provide data for carbon footprint analysis also adds a modern performance dimension related to sustainability. However, the user experience is sometimes hampered by reported issues such as a clunky interface, glitches, and slow performance, particularly within the mobile application. This suggests a disparity between the system's core functional efficiency and its user-facing responsiveness. While the backend processing and data management are robust, improvements in UI/UX and mobile app stability could significantly enhance perceived performance.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for SAP Concur highlight both significant strengths and notable weaknesses, influencing recommended use cases.

• Strengths: Users frequently praise SAP Concur for its ease of use in managing expenses, efficient mobile receipt capture, and overall automation of travel and expense processes. It is valued for providing detailed reports, being accessible from anywhere, and integrating well with other systems. The platform's ability to streamline travel booking, enforce company policies, and offer real-time analytics is also highly regarded.
• Weaknesses: Common criticisms include a steep learning curve, a non-intuitive and clunky user interface, and occasional glitches. Users report slow performance, frequent crashes (especially with the mobile app), difficulties in uploading receipts, and a cumbersome login process. Some feedback also points to a dated feel compared to newer competitors and dissatisfaction with customer support.
• Recommended Use Cases: SAP Concur is widely recommended for expense management, travel booking, and invoice management. It is particularly beneficial for organizations looking to automate and streamline accounts payable processes, enforce compliance with company policies, and gain better visibility into spending for businesses of various sizes.

Summary

SAP Concur is a comprehensive, cloud-based suite of solutions designed to automate and streamline travel, expense, and invoice management for enterprises. Its primary strength lies in its ability to centralize and automate these critical business functions, leading to increased efficiency, reduced manual errors, and improved compliance with company policies. The platform offers robust security features, including AES-256 encryption, multi-factor authentication, and extensive certifications (e.g., ISO 27001, PCI DSS, SOC2), ensuring a high level of data protection and regulatory adherence. Additionally, SAP Concur provides tools to help organizations analyze and reduce their carbon footprint related to business travel, aligning with modern sustainability goals.

However, the asset faces challenges primarily in its user experience. Frequent user feedback highlights a steep learning curve, a clunky and sometimes unintuitive interface, and performance issues such as slow loading times and occasional glitches, particularly within the mobile application. These aspects can lead to user frustration and impact productivity despite the underlying functional benefits.

Recommendations: Organizations considering SAP Concur should leverage its strong automation capabilities for expense and travel management to achieve significant operational efficiencies and compliance. It is particularly well-suited for companies needing robust security and extensive regulatory compliance. To mitigate the reported user experience issues, companies should invest in thorough user training and change management initiatives. SAP Concur could benefit from focusing on modernizing its user interface and improving mobile app stability to enhance overall user satisfaction and performance perception. Furthermore, actively utilizing the platform's sustainability features can help businesses meet environmental objectives.

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.