There are two ways to combine data sources in SAP Analytics Cloud. One is by combining data sources at the model level at the time of model creation – the details of which can be seen in this blog. The other is by blending datasets in SAP Analytics Cloud, which we will look at in detail here.
SAP Analytics Cloud offers this key capability to blend multiple data sources into the same chart or table by linking or joining common dimensions between them. Any filters passed or selections made are reflected in all the linked components in the page. Also, for blended datasets, the consolidated list of dimensions and measures from the two models are displayed in the Designer.
SAP Analytics Cloud now supports data blending between live data models and data models based on imported data stored in the SAC.
Blending between these different sources is supported – as seen in the image below:
For this blog, as an example, let us see how blending works between Live and Acquired data models.
Data Sources used:
- Live Connection – HANA
- Acquired data – BW
Create a new story by consuming these datasets in two different charts as shown below:
Linking Dimensions
Here are the steps to link dimensions:
1. Click on the ‘Link Dimensions’ option in the ‘More’ menu. Alternatively, you can find this option in the Data Source area of the Builder panel when you are creating or editing a chart.
The ‘Link Dimensions’ dialog box appears.
2. In this dialog box, you must link the primary model on the left to the secondary model on the right. Expand the drop-down list in the left pane and click on the ‘Add model’ option. In the ‘Select a model’ dialogue box, select the model ‘HBS_TEST’, and click on ‘Set’ to close the dialog box.
After linking, the dimensions and measures from both models (linked) will appear on the right of the panel.
Note: The Links that are created between data sources are available only in the stories and do not impact the underlying models.
There are a few options available to configure the ‘Link Type’. You can also define which dimensions are to be unlinked.
3. As shown below, there are three types of Linking based on data.
‘All primary data’ – Includes all data in the primary model, and only the corresponding matching data in the secondary model (similar to left outer join)
‘All data’ – Includes all data in the primary and secondary models (similar to full outer join)
‘Intersecting data only’ – Includes only matching data (similar to inner join)
Summary
The matrix below summarizes data blending possibilities between various types of models based on live data, acquired data, flat files, and non-SAP data.
Reach out to us here today if you are interested to evaluate if SAP Analytics Cloud is right for you.
