What is SAP Dashboards?
SAP Business Objects Dashboards is the 4.x equivalent to what we’ve formerly called Xcelsius. SAP has made some improvements to this newer version, amongst other things there is now an integrated Query Builder option reducing the dependency on LiveOffice and/or Query as a Web Service.
For more information about SAP BusinessObjects Dashboards, click here
Difference between SAP Dashboards & SAP Design Studio
SAP Business Objects Dashboard, as previously mentioned, is the newer version of the Xcelsius tool. While it connects all data sources, there have been some idiosyncratic issues with connecting it to OLAP sources. This is where SAP Design Studio takes over. It was developed by SAP with the strict purpose of providing a dashboarding tool for OLAP data sources. (Although, newer versions will allow you to connect to Universes and Relational sources as well.)
For more information about SAP Design Studio, click here
SAP Dashboard Tips & Tricks
Tip #1 – Reduce: Less Data in Dashboard Using Integrated Query Builder
Traditional dashboards have a few major pitfalls and using them as a data collection/aggregation point is a performance destroyer. In order to streamline the performance of your dashboards, stop using them as Database Servers and start using them as Visualization tools.
Tip #2 – Recycle: Content Recycling with OpenDoc Links
The second major performance pitfall is the overcrowding of dashboards with lots of components. This is easy to fall into as the business asks for “everything” on a single screen. Rather than giving them everything, give them the ability to interact using links powered with Open Document URLs to pass parameters between Dashboards, WEBI reports, Crystal Reports, etc.
Tip #3 – Reuse: Stagger Data Refresh Rather than “Big Bang” Refresh
Not all data is required when the dashboard opens, especially the data for the drill downs/pop-ups. Data in a Dashboard can be loaded based on any activity, clicking a button, hovering over an icon, etc. Load the data at the appropriate time to deliver the appearance of a streamlined data refresh. If your initial load times are quick, then the dashboard has a greater chance of success.
What next?
Let Axian come to the rescue and help define your BI strategy, develop a roadmap, work with your business community to identify the next project, and provide clarity and direction to a daunting task. For more details about Axian, Inc. and the Business Intelligence practice, click here to view our portfolio or email us directly to setup a meeting.
