SAP Analysis for Office (AO) is a widely adopted Excel add-in that allows users to connect directly to SAP data sources such as SAP BW and SAP HANA. It enables powerful multidimensional data analysis within the familiar Excel environment. One of AO’s key strengths is the ability to customize report layouts leveraging Excel’s native flexibility, empowering users to create visually appealing, tailored reports that fit unique business requirements.
This article explores how to effectively customize report layouts using Excel in SAP Analysis for Office, helping you deliver insightful, well-structured, and user-friendly reports.
While SAP Analysis for Office automatically generates basic reports from SAP queries or models, business users often require more refined layouts to:
- Highlight critical KPIs and trends
- Integrate charts and visualizations alongside raw data
- Apply corporate branding and formatting standards
- Simplify complex data for executive consumption
- Create dynamic reports that facilitate data-driven decisions
Excel’s robust formatting capabilities combined with AO’s live data connectivity provide an ideal environment for such customizations.
¶ 1. Using Pivot Tables and Crosstabs
AO uses Excel pivot tables to display multidimensional SAP data:
- Rearrange rows, columns, and filters easily to change data perspectives.
- Use Excel’s pivot table options to group data, add subtotals, and create calculated fields.
- Format pivot tables with styles to improve readability.
Add custom calculations alongside SAP data:
- Use Excel formulas referencing AO cells for ratios, growth rates, or forecasts.
- Combine AO data with external data sources by referencing cells outside AO pivot tables.
- Apply conditional formatting based on formula results to highlight exceptions or trends.
¶ 3. Embedding Charts and Visual Elements
Enhance reports with Excel charts and graphics:
- Insert column, line, pie charts, and sparklines linked to AO data.
- Use dynamic named ranges to make charts update automatically when data changes.
- Add shapes, icons, or images for branding and clarity.
Create professional, polished reports:
- Adjust fonts, colors, borders, and shading to emphasize key areas.
- Use custom number formats for currency, percentages, or dates.
- Apply cell styles and themes consistent with corporate identity.
¶ 5. Using Templates and Workbook Protection
- Develop reusable Excel templates with pre-set layouts and AO data connections.
- Protect worksheets or workbooks to prevent accidental changes while allowing data refreshes.
- Enable AO’s “Workbook Lock” features to control user interaction.
- Keep it User-Friendly: Avoid overcrowding reports; use white space and clear headings.
- Optimize Performance: Large Excel formatting or complex formulas can slow down AO refreshes. Balance aesthetics with performance.
- Leverage Named Ranges: Use named ranges in Excel for easier formula maintenance and dynamic referencing.
- Document Changes: Maintain version control and document customizations for team collaboration.
- Test with Real Data: Always validate layout behavior using actual SAP data to ensure accuracy and responsiveness.
- Automate repetitive layout adjustments using Excel VBA macros.
- Trigger macros on workbook open or after AO data refresh for dynamic formatting.
- Use SAP BW BEx query variables and formulas embedded within AO for advanced analytics.
- Combine with Excel formulas to extend calculation capabilities.
- Link AO reports into SAP BusinessObjects for centralized report management and distribution.
- Use BusinessObjects scheduling and bursting features to deliver customized reports at scale.
Customizing report layouts in SAP Analysis for Office by leveraging Excel’s powerful features transforms standard data extracts into meaningful, visually compelling reports tailored to business needs. By combining pivot table manipulation, Excel formulas, charts, and professional formatting, users can create dynamic, insightful reports that improve decision-making and user engagement.
Investing time in designing effective report layouts not only enhances usability but also maximizes the value extracted from your SAP data.