In the previous blog in this series, we learnt about Passing Filter Parameter to Story. In this blog, let us take a closer look at how to instantly analyze Live data without creating a data model.

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In SAP Analytics Cloud when you need to examine data from live data sources, you have to create a data model based on the live query and consume it in the story. But starting with update 2019.14, you can view and examine data from live data sources without the need to create a data model. In this blog let us see how you can utilize Data Analyzer to quickly explore live data.

Please note that Data Analyzer only supports BW Live queries as of version 2019.22.

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Data Analyzer is a new feature you can use to connect live BW queries. See the Data Analyzer in action below where you can explore BW query without creating a data model.

Data Analyzer

You can access the Data Analyzer using scripting in application design of the SAP Analytics Cloud.

As you run the application, a pop-up opens where you can select a connection and data source. Since Data Analyzer only supports BW as of now, you cannot change the system. You can choose the BW connection and then select the BW query under Data Source. You can also quickly access a recently used data source from the list on the left side.

We also have the option to pass the connection type and the data source through scripting. In this case, the user will be able to analyse data only from a specific data source.

You must enter the credentials when prompted.

Explore Data

Once you select the data source the data is shown in a table. By default, the initial view of the query is shown.

The Designer panel shows the existing objects in Rows and Columns.

To add or remove objects select the Available Objects icon. The list of objects available will be shown in a separate panel.

You can unselect the measures, move the objects to rows or columns.

Filters and Parameters

In the canvas, you also have a Filter Line where you can select a dimension and apply filters as needed.

A separate pop-up allows you to select the members similar to applying filters inside a Story.

Even dynamic time filters are possible if there is a time dimension in the data source

Other Table properties like Freeze, Rank are also available.

On the top left there are options to pause refresh or refresh the data which is similar to the option that is available in Analysis Office. You can also access the query parameters or enter Full-Screen mode.

Data Analyzer is a nice addition to SAP Analytics Cloud for quickly exploring BW queries live. And it would be great if the support is extended to other live sources like HANA.

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In the next blog, we will discuss in detail about the Container Widgets.

Click here to evaluate if SAP Analytics Cloud is right for you. To know about the Analytic Applications of SAP Analytics Cloud, please check out our blog series here.