Top 4 Takeaways from my first 30 Days with SAP BusinessObjects Cloud (fka SAP Cloud Analytics)

[Former Member]

Note:

I was first introduced to BusinessObjects a little over a month ago. Since then I've spent 50+ hours in the tool creating various customer data visualizations. BusinessObjects Cloud is SAPs premier cloud-based data visualization tool that offers a unique set of features. If you want to check out my initial experience with the tool, check out my other post "SAP Cloud Analytics: My First Impressions". Today, I bring you my top four takeaways after spending 30 days working with BusinessObjects Cloud.

The Tool is focused on the Business User

In my first impressions blog post I mentioned that the learning curve was fairly low for BusinessObjects Cloud. The ease of use comes from having a User Interface that is catered toward the business user. Functionalities that may require IT knowledge don't plague the tool. This allows business users to more efficiently create and manage their data visualizations and lessen their dependence on IT.

There is Still Development Happening in the Background

During my time with Cloud Analytics, I enjoyed a rather smooth experience. The only crashes I experienced came when trying to use the Digital Boardroom with the Data Modeler and Story functions. At times, the tool would not allow me to import data. I would get errors when building a data visualization story as well. The good news is that when an error occurs the tool does not stop, and you are able to save your work and refresh the page. Lastly, there is still no "Undo" or "Redo" buttons when building a data visualization, which is frustrating if a mistake is made in development. With that said it is clear that although the tool has been released, the team is still working out internal issues.

The Development Team is Listening

So far with each new release of BusinessObjects Cloud, new useful features have been added that have enhanced the tool. It is evident that the development team is listening to the users and the community. I use SAP Network Community (SCN) as a resource for community knowledge about the tool and I do see the feedback from the community being implemented in the new updates. This is a hopeful sign that functional improvements will continue to enhance the tool over time.

A Solid Foundation has been Laid

Overall, BusinessObjects Cloud has laid a solid foundation thus far. I see areas for improvement to make the tool more complete. I don’t see it completely ready for mass user adoption. However, if SAP continues to improve on the platform they have created, I am excited to see the future and evolution of the tool

You can also follow my BusinessObjects Cloud journey on Twitter by following me @dariusknott and using the #BIBAcademy hashtag!

Other Posts you May Find Interesting:

• 10 Tips on How I Executed my First SAP Cloud Analytics Dashboard


• SAP Cloud Analytics: My First Impressions


• 3 Design Hacks for SAP Cloud Analytics You Need to Know