SAP Analytics Cloud – updates in the third quarter of 2024

To use SAP Analytics Cloud effectively, it is crucial to regularly monitor the latest updates from SAP. Therefore, in this article I will present the three most important enhancements and new features introduced in Q3 2024 in SAP Analytics Cloud from a user perspective.

Just Ask – improvements to the “just ask” function

“Just Ask” is an AI-based feature that allows users to ask questions in natural language and receive answers in the form of graphs or tables based on data available in the system. It was introduced to SAP Analytics Cloud earlier this year, with additions this quarter including:

1. Hint guide – providing guidance to users on how to use the Just Ask feature, such as:

• Sample questions,
• key features of key functions,
• tips for optimising performance.

2. Comparability:

• Two measures (e.g. Comparing sales with expenditure),
• two measures and a dimension (e.g. Comparing sales with expenditure by location),
• time (e.g. Comparing sales with expenditure by location in the current year),
• a version of a dimension with a measure (e.g. Comparing actual sales with forecast sales by location).

Data file upload: User upload of flat files

A new, even groundbreaking, feature for SAP Analytics Cloud users is the ability to load new data (from an excel or csv file) directly from within the story by using the data import button, meaning no model is required. This could apply, for example, if you want to import output data for budget planning.

Without going into technical details, this option will be possible, among other things, after SAP consultants have prepared the model in advance, created a sample excel file with a suitable structure for data mapping (the number and names of columns are particularly important), set up the import method and inserted for end users in the story an import button for such data.

Integration with Microsoft PowerPoint

The integration of SAP Analytics Cloud with Microsoft PowerPoint allows users to intuitively add data visualisations to their PowerPoint presentations using charts available in existing stories in SAP Analytics Cloud. To do this, connect to SAP Analytics Cloud in PowerPoint, then select the chart of interest and add it to the slide. In addition, in the PowerPoint presentation it is possible, for example, to change the hierarchy of the displayed data and refresh the data.

Summary

A number of interesting improvements and new features have been introduced this quarter that go beyond the scope discussed in this article. The full list of updates can be found at SAP.