SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) is a robust platform that enables organizations to transform raw data into insightful, interactive, and visually compelling Stories. A well-designed Story not only delivers analytics but also tells a clear, persuasive data-driven narrative. To maximize the effectiveness of your SAC Stories, following design best practices is essential.
This article outlines key best practices for Story design that help you create engaging, user-friendly, and impactful analytics experiences in SAP Analytics Cloud.
Before building your Story, clarify its purpose and target audience. Understand what questions the Story should answer and who will consume it.
Effective layout guides users smoothly through the narrative:
Select chart types and visual elements that best represent the underlying data and insights:
Avoid overcomplicating visuals—simplicity often enhances clarity.
Enhance data comprehension by pairing visualizations with supporting narratives:
Design with performance in mind to ensure fast load times and smooth interaction:
Enable users to explore data on their own:
Interactivity improves engagement and helps users find personalized insights.
Align the Story’s look and feel with your organization’s branding guidelines:
Consistency builds professionalism and trust.
Before publishing:
Regular testing helps ensure your Story meets user needs and expectations.
Provide metadata or documentation within the Story or as a supplementary document:
Transparency fosters confidence in the data.
Designing effective Stories in SAP Analytics Cloud requires a balance of technical know-how and creative storytelling. By following these best practices—defining clear objectives, planning layouts, choosing suitable visuals, optimizing performance, enabling interactivity, and maintaining consistency—you can craft compelling analytics narratives that drive informed business decisions.
Great Story design enhances user experience, encourages data-driven collaboration, and ultimately unlocks the true value of your organization’s data assets.