BI Expert

Implementing SAP HANA: Experiences and First Impressions

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:17:06 EST

Get a first-person account of an SAP HANA installation, including initial impressions with the software�s features, challenges encountered during the implementation, and lessons on SAP HANA�s integration with SAP BusinessObjects BI tools.

Administration Duties are Modern and Flexible in Planning and Consolidation 10.0

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:02:09 EST

Get a brief overview of the new administration setup in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation 10.0, version for SAP NetWeaver, including updated features that affect models, dimensions, properties, hierarchies, script logic, transports, and more.

Track User Changes Using a Change Log in Integrated Planning

Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:57:03 EST

Learn how to create a change log in a planning application using SAP NetWeaver BW Integrated Planning (IP). This process helps track the changes made in an IP application, creating data that you can use for audit purposes and performance assessment.

Preview of BI 2012 with Speaker Dan Kearnan: Expect SAP NetWeaver BW to Run Soon on SAP HANA

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:49:08 EST

Beyond its touted ability to accelerate the speed of information analysis, SAP HANA is evolving into other uses, including as a replacement for the traditional relational databases that SAP NetWeaver BW typically runs on top of.

A Boost to the Web Client Simplifies Planning and Consolidation 10.0, Version for NetWeaver

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:31:52 EST

Take a tour of the new and enhanced Web client features of SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation 10.0, version for SAP NetWeaver. Find out how improvements to the Web client functions can change your planning and consolidation and reporting activities.

Sets Can Satisfy Your Financial Reporting Requirements While Minimizing Maintenance

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:42:36 EST

When you need a structured report for regulatory and statutory reporting, consider using a method based on creating data sets in SAP ERP Central Component (SAP ECC). It is more flexible and requires less maintenance than the traditional approach of creating a hierarchy/financial statement version in SAP ECC using transaction OB58 and then loading it to SAP NetWeaver BW using the standard business content extractor.

3 Time-Saving Results of Using SAP HANA with SAP NetWeaver BW

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:18:54 EST

Gain an understanding of how using SAP HANA as part of SAP NetWeaver BW may reduce the time IT and your system spend on data loading, maintenance, and modeling.

How SAP NetWeaver BW Running on HANA Changes Business Processes

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:54:36 EST

Gain an understanding of how SAP HANA works with SAP NetWeaver BW, and examine the business process changes that come from the release. Learn about how SAP NetWeaver BW powered by SAP HANA differs from SAP NetWeaver BW on a traditional relational database management system, and the new capabilities that are available within the release. In addition, find how this offering provides a simpler environment to manage when compared to traditional relation database management systems.

Explore The Differences Between Two Available HANA Versions

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 11:53:57 EST

Take an introductory tour through the SAP HANA environment from a consultant�s perspective. Find out the details behind SAP HANA 1.0 and SAP HANA 1.0 Support Package 03, how the new technology differs from existing SAP offerings, and potential scenarios for implementing SAP HANA.

Display External RSS Feeds Without Loading Them Into SAP NetWeaver BW

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 14:45:14 EST

See an example of how to combine SAP NetWeaver BW data with data coming from almost any RSS feed. You can display the data inside SAP Web Application Designer without having to upload it into SAP NetWeaver BW, which gives the user the ability to display online information side-by-side with internal data coming from SAP NetWeaver BW.

Create Dashboards and Other BusinessObjects Reports in Languages Not Supported by SAP

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:01:28 EST

Find out how to develop a dashboard using SAP BusinessObjects Dashboards (formerly Xcelsius) into a language other than the standard 19 languages that SAP provides, with Arabic used as an example. The development of Web Intelligence reports and Crystal Reports in Arabic is also explored. Such language additions make reports and charts more user-friendly globally and save time otherwise spent on translating data.

Quick Tip: Use Dashboards to Think Ahead, Not Just Review the Past

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:33:24 EST

Through integration with SAP NetWeaver BW, companies can use SAP BusinessObjects Dashboards to monitor BI processes in real time, thereby flagging any problems for immediate improvement.

Deliver Tangible Benefits to Performance and Flexibility with Layered, Scalable Architecture

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 13:18:26 EST

Get ahead of industry confusion by learning what Layered, Scalable Architecture (LSA) is and learn how it can improve your systems. Discover how many LSA concepts are familiar techniques with new names. LSA offers many business benefits, the most important of which is a stable foundation on which to grow your systems. Also, HANA has implications for LSA.

Discover Best Practices to Integrate SAP BusinessObjects BI 4.x with SAP NetWeaver BW and SAP ERP

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 11:01:04 EST

Learn best practices to use when implementing SAP BusinessObjects BI 4.x in combination with SAP NetWeaver BW and SAP ERP, including in the areas of data connectivity, hierarchical reporting, and BEx query design.

Use BAdIs to Create Master Data-Driven Validation Rules in BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for NetWeaver

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:13:06 EST

Data integrity is essential in the budget or forecasting process. By enforcing data integrity, you can ensure that reliable reporting is available when used for business decision making. Using a typical forecast scenario as an example, follow the steps to implement a master data driven validation rule in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for SAP NetWeaver, as a way to enforce data integrity.

Planning and Consolidation, Version for NetWeaver, Part 2: Automate Execution of Data Manager Packages

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:18:17 EST

Take away pointers to automate the execution of Data Manager packages by following an example of the detailed process to automate the loading of data using a flat file. Learn the benefits of running SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for SAP NetWeaver process chains from the enterprise data warehousing layer using SAP NetWeaver BW as part of the Data Manager package automation.

Planning and Consolidation, Version for NetWeaver, Part 1: How to Load Data from an InfoProvider Using the Data Manager

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:17:26 EST

Discover tips and tricks to better load data from a business warehouse InfoProvider to SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for SAP NetWeaver. Learn the pros and cons behind various alternatives, including useful features that you can use while creating transformation and conversion files.

Planning and Consolidation, version for Microsoft: Add an Excel Tool to Your Monitoring Capabilities

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:59:24 EST

Learn how to simplify the monitoring and logging of the performance of SAP Business Planning and Consolidation, version for Microsoft jobs using an Excel-based tool. It fills in gaps in Management Console monitoring.

Pull Sales Document Data Using a Delta Extract to Better Measure Partner Activity

Tue, 6 Sep 2011 12:06:39 EST

See how to build a pseudo delta extract mechanism so that you can pull sales document partner function data from SAP ERP Central Component and move it to SAP NetWeaver BW. This concept allows the business to see the respective partners on sales documents or alternatively allows business users to see and measure a partner activity in various sales documents.

Check your SAP Business Explorer Query Database Tables in a Single Step

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:46:05 EST

Learn how to use ABAP ANALYZE_RSZ_TABLES to perform consistency checks on SAP Business Explorer tables.

Create a Web Service with SAP BusinessObjects Data Service to Deliver Real-Time Data Quality

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 8:47:32 EST

Learn how to create a real-time data quality Web service to deliver accurate and reliable customer data. Explore time-saving tips and tricks for developing a flexible data flow that any application can use to cleanse and standardize data and for configuring an SAP BusinessObjects Data Services server.

Use the APD to Reduce Your BEx Query�s OLAP Time

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:57:08 EST

Find out how you can use the Analysis Process Designer as an alternative way to reduce high OLAP time for SAP Business Explorer queries, especially when using them as a Business Intelligence Consumer Services or Query as a Web Service connection to feed dashboards.

Improve WAD Reports by Adding the Ability to Filter with an External List of Values

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:05:35 EST

See how to create a template that allows users to filter a Business Explorer Web Application Designer report by any list of values, even if they are not grouped in SAP NetWeaver BW.

5 BEx Analyzer Tips to Make the Lives of End and Power Users Easier

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 8:46:50 EST

Here are five tips to try if you are using Business Explorer Analyzer 7.0 and Microsoft Office 2007 and higher.

New Features and Functions of SAP BusinessObjects Dashboards 4.0

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:53:20 EST

Learn about some of the new capabilities of SAP BusinessObjects Dashboards 4.0 and how you can leverage the newly integrated features in combination with the semantic layer.

Next Generation Self-Service Reporting with SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence 4.0

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:11:17 EST

Learn about some of the new capabilities of SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence 4.0 and how you can connect the tool to your SAP NetWeaver BW data.

Understanding the Deployment Options for the SAP Employee Interaction Center (EIC)

Thu, 5 May 2011 12:30:19 EST

SAP offers multiple deployment options for the Employee Interaction Center (EIC). Find out about the functionality contained in each option so you can choose the best match for your organization.

ABAP, BEx, Process Chains and Scheduling, SAP NetWeaver Portal

Wed, 4 May 2011 13:38:49 EST

See how to create one process chain to control the schedule, reschedule, and stopping of multiple broadcasts.

Use the Information Life Cycle to Determine Your Archiving Strategy

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:56:40 EST

Understand the three most popular methods for archiving SAP NetWeaver BW data: SAP Archive Development Kit (ADK), SAP NetWeaver Near-Line Storage (NLS), and the not-so-well-known ADK with NLS. Equip yourself to choose the appropriate method for your needs.

Experience the Next Level of Forecasting the Future Using Xcelsius Dashboard Applications

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:29:14 EST

Xcelsius dashboard applications present facts graphically, providing insight that helps in making business decisions. However, the future is uncertain and decisions should take that into account. Learn how Xcelsius can transform business facts into statistically valid probability models that give a more accurate view of the future using Monte Carlo simulation techniques.

How to Migrate Custom ABAP Code Routines from 3.x Data Flow to 7.0 Data Flow Automatically Without Manual Re-Work

Thu, 7 Apr 2011 14:02:35 EST

Learn how to migrate your custom SAP NetWeavere 3x ABAP code used in rules to SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 without additional coding, thereby saving time and protecting your investment as you upgrade your system landscape.

Custom Program Enables You to Transport IP Lock Characteristics Settings Between Two Systems

Thu, 7 Apr 2011 13:58:07 EST

Find out how to create a custom program and use it to transport SAP NetWeaver BW integrated planning (IP) lock characteristics from one system to another. This process helps you avoid manually creating the lock characteristics in multiple systems.

SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, OLAP Edition � Your First Steps

Tue, 1 Mar 2011 16:15:06 EST

Learn how to perform your first steps with SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, OLAP Edition in combination with your SAP NetWeaver BW landscape.

Quick Tip: Extract InfoSet Technical Names Using the MultiProvider Layer

Fri, 4 Feb 2011 14:07:57 EST

When building reports, ensure that you have the correct technical names for the InfoObjects to avoid incorrect references and extra development effort.

SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, OLAP Edition � BEx and Voyager Combined

Fri, 4 Feb 2011 13:39:19 EST

Ingo Hilgefort, Director Solution Management, SAP

Best Practices in SAP BusinessObjects Data Services Data Flow and Job Design

Fri, 4 Feb 2011 11:04:18 EST

Review these best practices in developing a data flow and understand the importance of reusability in SAP BusinessObjects Data Services job design. When constructing a good data flow, it is important to minimize the effort by thinking in terms of reusability up front in the design process. Considering the code as a reusable object is the best way to approach extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) and development with SAP BusinessObjects Data Services.

5 Steps to Real-Time Data Analysis with Virtual InfoProviders and Xcelsius

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 8:54:25 EST

Engage executives, management, and end users with real-time data visualizations using Virtual InfoProviders and Xcelsius.

A Quick and Easy Guide to Building a Dashboard in SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:53:19 EST

Walk through how to use SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer to build and deploy attractive Web-based reporting dashboards � without the need for coding.

Accelerate Highly Granular Date Range Reports by Creatively Using Aggregates

Fri, 3 Dec 2010 16:57:17 EST

Many companies run highly granular YTD/PTD/WTD date range reports to track sales performance at the material/store level. These date ranges involve complex calculation and can be time consuming to run. To improve report performance, try this innovative approach of creating dynamic aggregates based on fixed hierarchy levels.

Quick Tip: Uncover the Basics of Life Cycle Analytics Between SAP CRM and SAP NetWeaver BW

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 9:54:50 EST

A quick and easy-to-understand guide to the connection among the Analysis Process Designer (APD), SAP NetWeaver BW, and SAP Customer Relationship Management (SAP CRM).

SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, Edition for Microsoft Office � Your First Steps

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 11:38:03 EST

Find out how to install and configure SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, edition for Microsoft Office as part of your SAP NetWeaver BW landscape. Then take a look at several workflows in this new application.

Too Many Status Calls? Provide Data Status in the Logon Screen for Quick User Reference

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:37:15 EST

Reduce internal help desk times and unnecessary questions concerning the status of reporting data. Use SAP NetWeaver BW statistics and logon screen technology to provide information to users as soon as they log on to SAP NetWeaver BW.

Case Study: How to Use APD to Extract and Transform High-Volume Data from SAP NetWeaver BW

Thu, 4 Nov 2010 16:47:20 EST

In addition to its traditional use for data mining purposes, you can also use Analysis Process Designer (APD) for data extraction when you have large amounts of data and complex queries. Find out how one company set up this process.

Discover SAP BusinessObjects Analysis � the New BEx Analyzer

Tue, 2 Nov 2010 11:22:01 EST

Find how you can use the newly released SAP BusinessObjects Analysis, edition for Microsoft Office � formerly known as project Pioneer � as part of your overall SAP BusinessObjects BI landscape. Uncover which BEx applications SAP BusinessObjects Analysis replaces and discover what functionality will be available with its initial release as part of SAP BusinessObjects BI 4.0.

4 Options for Using UoM Conversion During Query Runtime: Which Is Right for You?

Mon, 1 Nov 2010 11:57:27 EST

Deciding where to apply the unit of measure (UoM) conversion logic in your BEx queries in your SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 system requires the consideration of factors such as performance during query runtime. Discover four options you have for applying UoMs, from using a central table conversion with table T006 to enabling users to select the UoM variable during query runtime.

Quick Tip: 5 Misconceptions about Integrating SAP BusinessObjects and SAP NetWeaver BW � and How to Overcome Them

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:11:43 EST

Get the facts about some common misconceptions about SAP BusinessObjects, including fallacies about data management and which SAP BusinessObjects applications replace which SAP NetWeaver BW tools. Then review three tips to help you get the most of your SAP BusinessObjects BI implementation and ensure widespread adoption.

Overcome Challenges with Unit of Measure Conversion During Transformations

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST

Unit of measure (UoM) conversion functionality can add significant flexibility and enhanced analysis capabilities. Instead of having to create custom ABAP programs, you can use the new standard functionality in SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0. Here are the steps to implement UoM conversions in transformations.

Quick Tip: Swiftly and Easily Test Security Roles for SAP NetWeaver BW Reports

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:09:55 EST

Using transaction RSRT with transaction RSUDO enables you to test reports for different users to ensure they have the correct security settings. Find out how these two transactions work together to save you time by mimicking BEx Analyzer.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Read Dimension Members and Their Properties from an AppSet Using a BAdI

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 12:19:50 EST

Find out how to use a Business Add-In in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation to read the dimension members and their properties within the same AppSet or any other AppSet. This enables you to create reports from data that you access in two different applications.

SAP BusinessObjects XI 3.1 Service Pack 03: 3 Key Pieces of New Functionality for Web Intelligence and Xcelsius

Thu, 9 Sep 2010 10:53:47 EST

Understand the improvements offered in Service Pack 03 for SAP BusinessObjects XI release 3.1. See how to use the new query stripping feature in SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence and the new service components with Xcelsius.

3 Hidden Gems that Boost Your Use of SAP NetWeaver BW

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:44:45 EST

Find out about three programs that help you analyze all the components of a query, simulate SAP NetWeaver BW data for testing or prototyping, and keep track of transformations applied to source data in your BW system.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Use Data Manager Effectively

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:08:17 EST

Data Manager in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation enables you to import and export data as well as execute background tasks and planning logic. Discover best practices for setting up Data Manager, including setting up packages, working with transformation files, and working with conversion files.

Simplify Your SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 Upgrade with This Comprehensive Checklist

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:41:05 EST

Upgrading an SAP NetWeaver BW system includes many detailed steps and customizations that depend on your business requirements. Creating a comprehensive checklist allows you to customize the process and ensures that you cover every base to end with a successful implementation. In this case study, I describe the steps my team and I took during such an implementation and tell you the lessons we learned and the tips and tricks we took from our experience.

Secure Data Using Multiple Characteristics in SAP BusinessObjects Explorer

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:32:39 EST

Design and populate information spaces for authorizations and use the personalization feature in SAP BusinessObjects Explorer to overcome the single authorization object limitation. In this example, the business scenario required authorization on two characteristics. This is not possible to do with standard authorization settings available in the SAP BusinessObjects Explorer index maintenance screen.

The Transaction ID Finds Corrupt Data and Saves You Time

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 10:15:58 EST

Re-initializing the delta queue is a time-consuming, resource-intensive activity, but it is necessary to maintain the data integrity and accuracy of information. Follow step-by-step instructions for an alternative process that avoids the re-initialization, yet maintains the data integrity and accuracy of information.

Keep ABAP Routines in Sync for Global SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 Implementations

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:57:21 EST

Discover effective practices and methodologies to consider when designing and implementing start and end routines in transformations, customer exits for query variables and DataSources, and routines in data transfer processes in SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0. These methodologies and practices can help reduce the risks of keeping the data model in sync during implementation.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: An Introduction to Data Manager

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:27:33 EST

Find out about the Data Manager component in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, which is used for importing and exporting data as well as executing background tasks. See how using dynamic process chains in Data Manager helps you complete planning tasks more quickly.

Jet Power Your Decision Making with Visual What-If Scenarios Using Xcelsius

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 13:07:55 EST

Using an interactive Xcelsius report to conduct what-if scenarios allows users to quickly see the effects of business decisions in an engaging manner. Find out how to create your own what-if analysis report. A sample data file and a working what-if analysis report are provided as download files to help you get started.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Integrate Jobs into Your Existing Enterprise ETL

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 11:22:19 EST

See how to set up controlled batch jobs for SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for the Microsoft platform, with any corporate scheduling tool. This allows you to load end-to-end data from SAP NetWeaver BW to SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation and vice versa. Follow the steps for creating a batch file on the SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation application server to execute the scheduled SQL Server Integration Services package on the SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation data manager.

8 Tips for Building Efficient BEx Queries for SAP BusinessObjects

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:45:08 EST

After the acquisition of Business Objects, SAP has increased the integration between SAP NetWeaver BW and SAP BusinessObjects very quickly. However, some challenges with regard to performance still remain. Find out how you can improve the usability of BEx queries with SAP BusinessObjects to increase report performance.

Use This SAP NetWeaver BW Data Model for Easy Fill Rate and Cycle Time Reporting

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:13:17 EST

Discover an SAP NetWeaver BW data model that you can use to generate fill rate and cycle time reporting using standard data sources from sales and distribution. This generic data model uses ABAP transformations, which you can modify to align with your specific business process flow.

Start Routines Bogging Down Your System? Try These Alternatives

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:05:56 EST

The presence of a start routine changes the selected data structure and granularity. It has a negative impact on the source data retrieval process, even if you have not implemented it. In some scenarios, a start routine can change execution time from minutes to hours and even produce a different result. In most cases, you can implement an alternative solution to obtain the best loading performance.

Dynamically Integrate SAP NetWeaver BW Query Data into PowerPoint

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:55:32 EST

Using existing SAP technology to integrate your live BW Query data within Microsoft PowerPoint helps you avoid extra work. You can achieve this direct data connectivity without the need for third-party software. Instead, you can use basic Microsoft Office functionality with the SAP NetWeaver BW Object Linking and Embedding Database provider, which is standard with SAP GUI 7.10.

BW Performance: Are You Getting the Best Out of Your System?

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 9:32:32 EST

Walk through the process of undertaking a comprehensive performance audit of a BW system, from reviewing your queries to training super users. A variety of improvements, both technical and team-focused, can result from this inside-out and front-to-back guide to managing the performance of a BW system. While individually these changes may have a relatively small effect, together they can lead to a substantial and permanent improvement.

Best Practices for Web Intelligence Combined with SAP NetWeaver BW

Tue, 25 May 2010 13:17:50 EST

Take a look at a set of common best practices that you should follow when you integrate SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence with SAP NetWeaver BW. The best practices are grouped into the areas of universe, BW query, and report design.

A Methodical Approach to Creating an Xcelsius Dashboard

Fri, 21 May 2010 13:36:52 EST

Discover a systematic approach to dashboard development using Xcelsius. Realize typical challenges in dashboard user interface design and data modeling. Learn how to simplify the development cycle and reduce the time frame needed to generate dashboard applications.

Hidden Tool Provides Query Information on a Single Screen

Wed, 19 May 2010 14:52:00 EST

SAP NetWeaver BW has a little-known transaction called the query definition tool that provides a comprehensive view of any query. Discover where to find this tool and how to use it to your advantage.

Use BW Queries to Display Comments on BW Data

Mon, 17 May 2010 13:58:19 EST

Find out how to implement a BW InfoCube to enable users to query comments out of the BW Document Repository Manager that have been created on BW transactional data.

Quick Tip: Use a Standard Hidden Gem to Create Your Development Landscape Data

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 17:08:17 EST

Many development systems have small incomplete data sets, and some (Greenfields sites) have none. Find out how to effectively create data in InfoCubes in a timely manner by using the little-known SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 program CUBE_SAMPLE_CREATE.

Case Study: How to Optimize Performance for Large-Scale ETL Processing

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 13:05:44 EST

Discover steps that you can take to expand your performance tuning toolkit. The tips provided help you performance tune an extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) process with a complex transformation in the start routine.

SAP NetWeaver BW 7.1: Hidden Feature Enables End Users to Define Ad Hoc Formulas in Web Analyzer

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 11:13:25 EST

Ad hoc formulas can be a useful tool to empower end users to customize existing reports without altering the existing query. Find out about a new feature available in Web Analyzer with SAP NetWeaver 7.1 that provides ad hoc functionality to end users.

Integrate Custom Development with Standard BI Content to Reduce System Maintenance

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:16:50 EST

Discover the necessary development activities that BI developers must carry out during the functional and technical design phases of a project life cycle. These tasks ensure that system redundancy is optimized to reduce system maintenance costs. In addition, the tasks enable you to maintain a single version of the truth for sharable master data.

Join the BI Expert LinkedIn group!

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:19:52 EST

Join the BI Expert LinkedIn group to interact with editors, authors, and other readers.

Uncover Performance Improvements When Working with Aggregates Based on Master Data

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 13:04:19 EST

Apply these tips to master data-based aggregates to improve your system�s performance.

Quick Tip: Avoid Misinterpreting Your BI-IP Data After Currency Conversion

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 12:42:38 EST

Here�s a simple solution to avoid excess records in BI-Integrated Planning when you have multiple currencies in your plan. Unlike more involved processes that involve programming code, these four steps enable you to handle currency translation without coding.

Custom Program Enables You to Transport Query Variants Between Two Systems

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:46:04 EST

Find out how to create a custom program and use it to transport multiple SAP NetWeaver BW query variants from one system to another. This process can also apply to transporting variants used with Analysis Process Designer.

Quick Tip: Hidden Function Enables You to Copy Data from InfoProviders to InfoCubes

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:45:23 EST

Find out how to copy the pure data stored in an InfoProvider using the function RSDRI_INFOCUBE_DATA_COPY. This function allows you to create fast backups of data in target InfoCubes.

Survey Says: BI Expert Survey Responses Rolling In

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:05:21 EST

Discover some of the results of our recent subscriber survey.

12 Best Practices for Information Lifecycle Management Using the NLS Interface

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:44:13 EST

Using Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) and Nearline Storage (NLS) techniques enables organizations with SAP NetWeaver BW implementations to improve warehouse performance while considerably reducing database administration costs. In addition, using ILM with NLS improves your ability to manage and satisfy service level agreements. Discover the important aspects of ILM and garner best practices for using ILM with NLS.

BI Expert Live at SAP NetWeaver/BI and Portals 2010

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 13:02:34 EST

Join us at SAP NetWeaver/BI and Portals 2010 for a new forum, BI Expert Live. This new experience offers attendees the opportunity to meet leading authors from BI Expert, discuss topics from recent articles, and network with peers.

Seamlessly Apply Your SAP NetWeaver BW Data to Your Xcelsius Dashboards

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:14:15 EST

The SAP NetWeaver BW connectivity for Xcelsius 2008 allows you to connect Xcelsius 2008 directly to your SAP NetWeaver BW queries. Discover how to use the new SAP NetWeaver BW connectivity and create a simple dashboard using Xcelsius.

Set Up Intuitive and Automated Reporting Functionality with Crystal Reports

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:30:10 EST

Discover a strategy for configuring and developing Crystal Reports for your organization�s SAP BusinessObjects GRC solutions, such as SAP BusinessObjects Process Control. Walk through key installation requirements and configuration steps for your SAP BusinessObjects GRC solutions related to the SAP BusinessObjects Enterprise server, and identify key configuration settings that need to be put into place. Know the other aspects of developing new Crystal Reports to meet your additional needs for SAP BusinessObjects GRC solutions.

Best Practices for Creating a Sound Strategy for Your SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator Go-Live and Support

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:39:17 EST

Find out how to approach the final phases of an SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator implementation, including cutover, go-live, and support. In addition, learn some tasks that you can carry out after the accelerator go-live to get the most out of your investment.

SAP NetWeaver BW and Xcelsius: Excel 2007 PivotTables Provide Enhanced Interactive Reporting and Analytics Options

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:32:50 EST

See how you can use Microsoft Excel 2007 PivotTables with SAP NetWeaver BW and Xcelsius to create a low-cost but highly functional reporting and analytics system. Learn how Xcelsius uses Excel 2007 as its data binding source for dynamic dashboards and data visualizations.

SAP BusinessObjects Universes: A Key to Reporting Integration with SAP NetWeaver BW

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:08:20 EST

See how to display SAP NetWeaver BW queries in SAP BusinessObjects applications with two basic options via universes and direct access.

Share Data More Easily with SAP NetWeaver BW Connectivity for Xcelsius 2008

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:37:43 EST

Learn about the new SAP NetWeaver BW connectivity for Xcelsius 2008 from SAP BusinessObjects. This new connectivity allows you to connect Xcelsius 2008 directly to your SAP NetWeaver BW queries. Find out about the connection functionality and how you can use Xcelsius on top of your data from SAP NetWeaver BW.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Administrator and Power User Best Practices for Configuring Authorizations and Authentication

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:00:41 EST

When a power user creates an application in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, users must be assigned and given authorization to read and write data that they own. Take an in-depth look at how authentication and authorization are set up to ensure users can only work with the regions of data they own. This information can help you ensure that your data remains accurate and that you aren�t violating any data governance policies your company may have.

Advanced Energy Industries Streamlines Planning with SAP BusinessObjects

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 18:10:08 EST

Savvy planning is key to achieving efficiency in your business processes, but for many companies the planning process itself is fraught with enough inefficiency to cause problems. Such was the case at Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (AE), where the central finance department once constructed quarterly and annual planning reports from a flurry of emailed documents, revisions, and approvals.

Discover the Advantages of Using EvDRE with SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:40:28 EST

Learn how to design and develop reports and input schedules using EvDRE. Also find out best practices for reporting and performance improvement tips when using EvDRE with SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation (both Microsoft and SAP NetWeaver versions).

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: An Overview of What to Expect When Upgrading from SAP BPC 5.1

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:46:41 EST

Take a high-level look at the updates in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for SAP NetWeaver. See how the new functionality compares to functionality previously offered in version 5.1 and how these changes affect reporting, data transfer modeling, and data and transport management.

SAP BusinessObjects XI R3.1: Save Time and Add Reporting Flexibility with New Features in Service Pack 02

Mon, 2 Nov 2009 17:44:06 EST

Find out about the new features in SAP BusinessObjects XI Release 3.1 Service Pack 02 for the Universe Designer and SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence. Learn about new features for creating and updating OLAP universes. Discover new reporting features for SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence, such as input controls and hierarchical fold and unfold in reports.

Share Strategy Management Data Easily Using SAP BusinessObjects Voyager and Xcelsius

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:05:48 EST

Publishing strategy data beyond just your strategy analysts and managers helps you proactively respond to changing business requirements, ensure alignment at all levels within your organization, and instill confidence in people making decisions. You can provide access to this data by using SAP BusinessObjects Voyager and Xcelsius on top of your SAP BusinessObjects Strategy Management platform.

Quick Tip: Preserve Data Consistency in Write-Optimized DSOs

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:07:31 EST

SAP enhancement package 1 for SAP NetWeaver 7.0 includes a new feature to prevent a delta package from being deleted inadvertently and therefore causing inconsistency in a downstream InfoProvider. Find out how and when to use this Check Delta Consistency option.

Ensure Business Access Segregation by Automatically Generating SAP NetWeaver BW Analysis Authorizations

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:03:02 EST

Learn about an alternative method for creating and maintaining complex business access segregation rules that does not involve having your employees manually assign and revoke SAP NetWeaver BW roles with every employee job transfer. Through the use of analysis authorizations and security data models, you can update your SAP NetWeaver BW security automatically to reflect the latest changes to users as well as business rules governing data access.

Lessons Learned: How to Keep Your BW Team Tuned Up In a Down Economy

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 11:04:25 EST

Find out some tried and tested methods to ensure your BW team builds knowledge and relationships with other departments, even when projects are delayed. These tips will keep your team ready to go when projects begin again.

Maximize the Value of Your BEx Reports with Custom Exception Symbols

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:25:36 EST

It can be difficult to interpret the standard traffic-light exception symbols when you quickly scan a report. Find out how you can replace these symbols with something more meaningful, such as a medal to indicate sales success.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Gain a Better Understanding of Application Management

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:55:51 EST

When a user creates an application, much of what happens in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation is hidden from the user. Take an in-depth look at how applications are created and see how InfoCubes and applications differ. This information can help you quickly troubleshoot any issues your users may encounter.

Integrate Your SAP Data into SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:27:44 EST

The purpose and the semantics of transaction level data in SAP ERP can differ significantly from what business users expect to see in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation when they perform their forecasting and consolidation activities. Taking these differences into account when integrating data into SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation is often more complex than it seems at first glance. The key to successful data integration is to understand the semantic and technical aspects of it, as illustrated by several examples.

Experience Faster Enhancements with the Remodeling Toolbox

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:26:45 EST

The new remodeling toolbox in SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 enables you to decrease your enhancement delivery times and increase end-user satisfaction. Find out when you should use it and learn tips for overcoming issues you may encounter.

Get More from APD: Gather and Store Query Result Sets for Complex Analysis

Wed, 9 Sep 2009 17:19:51 EST

When carrying out complex analysis, such as trend analysis, you may need to use a query as a DataSource. In these situations, rather than using transformation logic, try using Analysis Process Designer, which provides more flexibility and enables you to use queries as DataSources.

Give Managers Detailed, Visual Dashboards for Improved Decision Making

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:54:54 EST

Find out how you can use Xcelsius, SAP BusinessObjects Live Office, SAP NetWeaver BW, and Crystal Reports to provide compelling data visualizations and dashboards. For example, you can add simple drop-down selection boxes to your charts to allow users to easily manipulate the data views in real time.

Combine SAP NetWeaver BW, Xcelsius, and Crystal Reports for Personalized Reporting

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:32:39 EST

Find out how you can combine Xcelsius 2008 and Crystal Reports 2008 with your SAP NetWeaver BW system to show aggregated data in your dashboard and then navigate to the detailed data in Crystal Reports. By combining these two applications, you can show highly summarized data to your executives and managers, while allowing analysts to drill down to a Crystal Reports object to view more details about the data.

SAP NetWeaver BW and Xcelsius Develop Eye-Catching Reports with Real-Time Updates

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:54:02 EST

Discover how to develop a Web service with Microsoft .NET that you can use to create Xcelsius applications that access SAP NetWeaver BW data dynamically. This allows you to develop applications that are always relevant and current. Downloadable sample data to try out this process is included.

Bookmarks and Query Views Demystified

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:24:04 EST

Bookmarks can improve performance, reduce query proliferation, and give users more of what they want: easily accessible targeted information. Find out how you can publish them through SAP NetWeaver Portal. Also, take a deeper look at bookmarks and query views to see how you can integrate both into dashboards.

SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence and Voyager: When Should You Use Each?

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:25:25 EST

SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence and SAP BusinessObjects Voyager offer different ways to approach reporting. Find out how these two front-end options compare and who the target user is for each one.

Quick Tip: Enable Little-Known ALL_FIELDS Parameter to Update Every Field in a Transformation

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 16:09:37 EST

SAP designed the end routine to update only the fields that are specifically mapped in the transformation. This can be frustrating if you need to update other fields. Find out about a simple workaround using the ALL_FIELDS option.

Keep Your Business Going During an SAP NetWeaver BW Go-Live

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 16:02:26 EST

During an SAP NetWeaver BW go-live, one of the most difficult tasks is the initial data load. By using the zero downtime approach, you can avoid taking your SAP source system (e.g., SAP ERP) down during the initial data loads as well as during data reloads. Find out how to follow the zero downtime approach for both logistics and non-logistics extractors.

Quick Tip: Hidden Transaction Simplifies Data Cleanup

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 15:58:48 EST

Find out about the little-known transaction, DELETE_FACTS, which can help speed up the data cleansing process.

Create Engaging, Error-Free Xcelsius Dashboards with SAP NetWeaver BW Queries

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 16:35:56 EST

By using a remote function module and the Web service wizard, you can enable Xcelsius to display data from SAP NetWeaver BW. Walk through each part of the process step by step. Annotated code for the remote function module is included as a download to help you get started more quickly.

Take the Challenge Out of BEx Report Formatting: It�s Easier than You Think

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 13:49:54 EST

Companies often want their reports to have a certain look and feel. Using an example of formatting your BEx reports so that negative numbers appear red, find out how you can easily modify your report parameters. You can use this three-step process for other reporting needs, such as changing the exception icon.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Business-Owned Administration: AppSet and Dimension Management

Tue, 19 May 2009 16:11:08 EST

Look at how administration works from a business perspective in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation, version for SAP NetWeaver. Learn about application set management and dimension management and see how they relate to SAP NetWeaver BW.

An Insider�s Guide to SAP BusinessObjects and SAP NetWeaver BW: What Tools Should You Use Going Forward?

Thu, 14 May 2009 13:41:39 EST

Delve into the reporting and analysis tools available with SAP BusinessObjects and SAP NetWeaver BW. Find out when to use which tool, where to find it, and who should be the one using it. Learn which BEx tools SAP will continue to develop and which SAP BusinessObjects tools you should consider for your long-term reporting and analytics needs.

Quick Tip: Improve System Performance by Deleting Obsolete and Incorrect Hierarchy Variables

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:41:44 EST

Find out tips for using transaction RSZDELETE with hierarchy variables in both SAP BW 3.x and SAP NetWeaver BW 7.x.

Quick Tip: Hierarchy Variables Save Time and Frustration When Creating Reports

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:18:35 EST

A hierarchy variable enables users to simply select the desired hierarchy when running reports. Find out how to create one in both SAP BW 3.5 and SAP NetWeaver BW 7.0 using BEx Query Designer.

6 Steps to Enhance a CRM DataSource Using a BDoc BAdI

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:02:30 EST

Learn about a new method you and your BW team can use to report on information obtained when you add new partner functions to SAP CRM � the Business Document Business Add-In. This six-step process allows you to collect data in real time and enables you to load the data into SAP NetWeaver Business Intelligence to use for reporting. You can also use this process to add other customized fields to SAP CRM.

Formula Variables Offer a Low-Cost Alternative to Cell Definition in Financial Reports

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 11:00:17 EST

Find out how you can use formula variables with hierarchies to define individual cells in a report. This six-step process offers a low-maintenance alternative to developing custom query structures in BEx Query Designer, a pre-requisite for the cell definition feature.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: Get to Know It Before Migrating

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:55:43 EST

Learn about the architecture of SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation. This helps you understand the migration options available for the different SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation releases.

SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence Plus SAP NetWeaver BW Equal Empowered Users

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:12:03 EST

Find out how you can use SAP BusinessObjects Web Intelligence with your SAP NetWeaver BW system and learn how you can use the �Track data changes� feature to identify time-dependent changes in your data.

How to Select the Best Tool for Developing Management Scorecards from SAP NetWeaver BW

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 13:47:18 EST

When you don�t need a comprehensive management scorecard application, consider options beyond SAP BusinessObjects Strategy Management or Strategic Enterprise Management-Corporate Performance Monitor Balanced Scorecard. Depending on your requirements, BEx Web Application Designer, SAP NetWeaver Visual Composer, or Xcelsius can also address your company�s management scorecard requirements. Find out when to use each option and how to create optimized scorecards for your management teams, with particular emphasis on using Xcelsius.

SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation: An Overview of How It Works with SAP NetWeaver BW

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:35:16 EST

Gain an understanding of what SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation is about and the heavy focus on making this a business-user-driven application. Learn about the two different products (the version for SAP NetWeaver and the version for the Microsoft platform) and the different releases of each one. In addition, find out about the various clients that exist, and get a basic grasp of the terminology used in SAP BusinessObjects Planning and Consolidation.

Best Practices for Creating a Sound Strategy for Your SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator Implementation

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:45:44 EST

Deciding to add SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator is a major step for organizations. Although the benefits include much faster query performance, you need to ensure that you fully plan your project. Find out how to approach the initial phases of an SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator implementation, including project preparation, blueprint, and realization. In addition, learn some tasks you can carry out before go-live to get the most out of the implementation.

Quick Tip: Constant Selection Option Helps You Meet Unique Reporting Needs

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 9:14:22 EST

Find out about a hidden front-end option, Constant Selection, that allows you to easily add ratio-based calculations to your reports.

Custom Data Slices Protect Your BI Integrated Planning Data

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 16:35:42 EST

You can use a custom data slice and standard exit functionality to create a data slice that you can lock and unlock. This allows the person responsible for BI Integrated Planning (BI-IP) configuration to set up a BI-IP layout in which users cannot update data cells manually.

Navigate the Complexities of Currency Conversion for More Accurate Management Reporting

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:33:38 EST

Since dealing with multiple currencies has become commonplace in a global economy, it�s no surprise that currency conversion is needed everywhere in global organizations that implement and run SAP software solutions. While currency conversion was mainly the purview of the ERP system in the past, ERP systems no longer carry that burden alone. Today�s managers want reports on aggregated data in various currencies. Uncover the hidden complexities of currency conversion in management reporting, and discover easy-to-understand examples that help you communicate these complexities to project stakeholders to ensure that your solution will meet all multi-currency reporting requirements.

Archiving for Performance Improvement: Part 2

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:36:41 EST

Discover phases 2 and 3 in the archiving process: archiving and retrieving the archive data by restoring it to an InfoCube.

Take Advantage of Association Analysis and See Your Sales Grow

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:18:47 EST

Most people are familiar with the �customers who bought this item also bought...� concept popularized by Web giants such as amazon.com. Association analysis, a data mining algorithm available in the Data Mining Workbench, helps you identify these related product sets. Find out how to set up association analysis in three steps.

Develop Dynamic Dashboards with BEx

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:39:26 EST

SAP BW has all the tools necessary to deploy a dynamic dashboard that shows custom content for each user. Discover some of the concepts inherent to making a dashboard successful and how you can use SAP BW to deliver them.

A Better Way to Manage User Exits: The Flexible Approach

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:21:34 EST

The SAP NetWeaver BI environment involves many developers in many different areas (such as finance, logistics, and HR). In the traditional approach, all developers share the same user exit. Discover another way to handle this work � the flexible approach � that can save you time (and money), while reducing the potential problems of sharing user exits.

Protect Your SAP BPC Data in Just 4 Steps

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:50:18 EST

To ensure that only authorized users have access to sensitive data and that system administrators have the access they need to SAP Business Planning and Consolidation (SAP BPC), follow these four simple steps within the SAP BPC security console.

SAP NetWeaver BI and BusinessObjects: Integrate Crystal Reports with SAP NetWeaver BI for Enhanced Report Formatting

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:49:38 EST

Find out which type of data connectivity is available for SAP NetWeaver BI and Crystal Reports. Then see how you can use the BW MDX connectivity to design a report in Crystal Reports that includes groups, hierarchies, and net sales data from SAP NetWeaver BI.

Tips and Techniques for Optimal Query Performance with SAP NetWeaver BI Accelerator

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:48:50 EST

SAP NetWeaver BI Accelerator, available with SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0 and later, can reduce reliance on aggregates and improves how the system reads data, resulting in faster query performance. Find out which scenarios work best with the accelerator and learn which tasks you should perform for the best possible accelerator performance.

Migrate Your SAP BW 3.x Data Flow to Upgrade to SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0's New Features and Functionalities

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:47:52 EST

When you upgrade from SAP BW 3.x to SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0, the data flow doesn't automatically migrate with the system. Find out how to migrate your DataSources, transformations, and Web templates to the new format.

5 Steps to Create More Interactive Dashboards in Web AD 7.0

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:47:13 EST

To develop nimble dashboards that adapt to the requirements of multiple users, you need complex script commands. Find out how you can combine the new standard script commands in Web Application Designer 7.0 to create these adaptable dashboards more easily.

Get Smart: What You Need to Know About SAP and Business Objects BI Tools

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:41:58 EST

Along with similar moves by Oracle and IBM, SAP�s acquisition of Business Objects has completely realigned the marketplace for business intelligence on an SAP ERP system. Find out why SAP made its move � and what the experts say you should be doing to prepare for the fallout.

Enhance Report-Report Interface: Create Custom Report Type as Receiver

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:39:33 EST

With the proliferation of front-end reporting tools comes the challenge of achieving a seamless navigation within applications composed of multiple report types. It also results in a greater need to pass complex sets of parameters from one report to another. When standard methods offered by Report-Report Interface fail to support such requirements, users often must manually execute related reports and copy and paste the necessary parameters. Find out how you can achieve seamless integration by defining custom report types.

How to Make a Near Real-Time InfoCube

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:38:14 EST

Near real-time data is not possible as standard with InfoCubes in SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0. Only DataStore objects can use real-time data acquisition (RDA). However, InfoCubes provide better performance than DataStore objects. Find out how you can model InfoCubes to facilitate near real-time data.

Accelerate the Creation of Powerful Dashboards in Xcelsius

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:37:25 EST

Get to know Xcelsius, a BusinessObjects tool that you can use with SAP NetWeaver BI to create dashboards quickly. See how to set up a simple dashboard, from preparing the Excel file to customizing the dashboard design.