In order to gain deep insights into the data, many users now rely on embedded analytics. The most common tool for evaluations is Fiori. In addition to Fiori, Embedded Analytics also offers standardized ways to read data with external tools. One of these tools is Analysis for Office.
Self-developed reports with long runtimes are a thing of the past. The new Embedded Analytics solution promises real-time data at the push of a button. But what exactly is Embedded Analytics and how can users access it?
What is Embedded Analytics?
Embedded Analytics is a bundle of analytical applications that allow real-time analysis and reporting thanks to new technologies. Embedded Analytics uses the functionalities of embedded BW, which is integrated in S/4HANA.
Embedded Analytics can communicate with classic BW/4HANA and SAP Analytics Cloud. To further delineate the reporting capabilities in S/4HANA, see our blog post Three questions about Embedded Analytics.
How does embedded analytics work?
Since Embedded Analytics is located directly in S/4HANA, it is activated there and can be used across modules. The possible applications range from purchasing and sales to finance and controlling. The most common tool used is Fiori. Predefined Fiori apps are available to the user, which can be accessed via the SAP Fiori Launchpad. Users can customize the preferred apps to their needs, create their own views or bookmarks, and create a user-specific group on the home screen. The good news is that end users can customize the default apps on their own, without having to ask the IT department for help.
Although Fiori offers unmistakable advantages and is very intuitive to use, its use still represents a hurdle for many users. Reasons for this can be of different nature: Rejection of a new software, undesirable change in the way of working or pressure in the daily business and lack of time for familiarization. Many users also like to work with Excel for a long time, especially in finance and controlling, and are extremely satisfied with reporting via Excel. Good news for those who like to work with Excel: Reporting on the fly with Embedded Analytics can also be used with Excel. The solution is called Analysis for Office (AfO).
Analysis for Office
Analysis for Office is a Microsoft Excel add-in, historically introduced under SAP Business Objects. The tool can be installed on the PC in a few minutes. It accesses the data in BW/HANA, SAP Analytics Cloud and S/4HANA with Embedded Analytics and outputs analyses in Excel in real time. AfO is interactive and easy to use thanks to its familiar presentation as an Excel workbook.
Reports are defined directly in Excel via the "Analysis" tab. The required key figures can be entered and selected in the search window. Excel highlights the hits. The user saves the desired key figures and creates a report. Multidimensional reports or, in Excel language, pivot tables with different dimensions can be displayed via the "Analysis" tab. In SAP language, dimensions are objects such as general ledger account, cost center or profit center and the key figures form values such as a credit or debit balance.
The result is a data area in which the analyses can be performed. In the process, the data area can also be adjusted for better clarity, for example by hiding repetitive elements.
Here the user is faced with further exciting functionalities e.g. diagram creation and integration in PowerPoint or adding a comment.
Fiori or AfO?
Which tool is the right one for reporting from embedded analytics is an individual decision. Both Fiori and Analysis for Office are solid reporting solutions that can be used with a clear conscience, depending on the corporate strategy. However, which solution offers greater added value for your company and your user groups must be examined in detail. The following points can help with an initial assessment:
- Innovations: While only occasional minor updates are made in AfO, Fiori is part of SAP's future roadmap, allowing users to benefit from innovative technologies.
- Costs: There are license costs for installing AfO, while Fiori reporting apps do not require any extra costs if you are already using Fiori.
- Interface: Fiori has a modern and intuitive interface, while with AfO you will find users who have years of experience with Excel and SAP Business Explorer-Analyzer (BEx Analyzer for short).
- Customizability: Both Fiori and AfO can be customized for specific users by hiding information that is not needed.
In most cases, CONSILIO recommends the use of Fiori in reporting. Nevertheless, a company can definitely benefit from using AfO, especially if user acceptance of Excel is incomparably high. CONSILIO will gladly support you in making the right decision for your company. Please contact us!
Summary
In most cases, CONSILIO recommends the use of Fiori in reporting. In addition to the cost issue, the fact that Fiori, as a strategic SAP product, is constantly being further developed and equipped with new features also plays a role. Fiori apps can also be used on all end devices - for example, on a tablet or smartphone. In terms of graphical representation, more diagram options are available to the user here. This is particularly helpful for presentations. While AfO end users convert figures into charts using PowerPoint, Fiori users can present analyses as charts directly in the Fiori app at the touch of a button. Nevertheless, a company can definitely benefit from using the AfO, especially if user acceptance of Excel is incomparably high. CONSILIO will be happy to support you in making the right decision for your company. Please contact us!
