SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is set to revolutionise the business intelligence landscape. This new release promises to continue the modernisation efforts started with version 4.3, focusing on core components and providing alternatives for unsupported ones. Users will be able to choose between on-premise and cloud options, making it more flexible and accessible than ever before.

The upcoming version aims to streamline the suite and reach more business users. With support for mainstream maintenance until the end of 2029 and priority 1 support until 2031, it guarantees long-term reliability. With this, organisations should begin preparing their upgrade paths now to ensure a smooth transition.

Significant changes will come with BI 2025, including the deprecation of certain technologies. This means users must adapt and take advantage of the new features and improvements. Whether your focus is on enhanced reporting, increased collaboration, or improved administration and security, BI 2025 promises to deliver valuable tools for your business.

Key Takeaways

• Choose between on-premise and cloud options.
• Streamlined suite focused on core components.
• Long-term support guaranteed through 2031.

Overview of SAP BusinessObjects BI

SAP BusinessObjects BI is a powerful business intelligence platform by SAP designed to help businesses make informed decisions. It has evolved significantly over the years, and the upcoming SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 promises further advancements.

Historical Context and Evolution

SAP BusinessObjects started as a suite of front-end applications for business intelligence. Initially, it focused on providing ad hoc reporting, data visualisation, and dashboards. Over the years, it has expanded its capabilities to include advanced analytics and better integration with other SAP tools.

The evolution of SAP BusinessObjects has been marked by the release of major versions. Each version introduced new features and improvements. This progression included enhanced user interfaces, better performance, and more robust data processing capabilities. With each iteration, the platform aimed to streamline business processes and improve decision-making.

Introduction to SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025

Scheduled for release by the end of 2024, SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is the latest version in the BI platform's evolution. It will continue the modernisation initiatives started in version 4.3. This new release will focus on the most-adopted tools within the platform.

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 will offer customers the choice to stay on-premise or move to the cloud, either on SAP Analytics Cloud or the Private Cloud Edition. It will support mainstream maintenance until 2029 and priority one support until 2031. This release will include significant enhancements in data visualisation and analytics capabilities, making it easier for users to gain insights and make data-driven decisions.

Key Features and Components

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 offers several cutting-edge features that enhance data analytics, integrate advanced AI capabilities, and improve user experience. Below, I outline the principal components and tools making up this platform.

Advanced Analytics and AI Integration

One of the most notable features of SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is its integration with advanced analytics and AI. The platform utilises machine learning algorithms to predict trends and analyse data. This means improved accuracy in forecasting business outcomes. By streamlining processes through automation, I can save time on repetitive tasks and focus on strategic decision-making.

Enhanced BI Solutions and Tools

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 brings enhanced BI solutions and tools that cater to diverse business needs. It includes enhancements in data visualisation and reporting tools, allowing for more interactive and insightful dashboards. The platform works seamlessly with SAP Analytics Cloud, ensuring I can leverage both on-premise and cloud solutions effectively. This hybrid approach increases flexibility in managing and deploying BI resources.

Universe Design and Web Intelligence

The universe design component has seen significant improvements in BI 2025. This involves transitioning from .unv universes to more advanced formats, enabling better data modelling and management. Web Intelligence has also been updated, offering more powerful and user-friendly reporting options. This combination ensures that the data structures are robust and the reporting is precise, tailored to the specific needs of my organisation.

Mobile and Cloud Capabilities

Mobile and cloud capabilities are critical in today's fast-paced environment, and SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 excels in this aspect. With enhanced mobile features, I can access important data and reports on-the-go, ensuring I never miss crucial business insights. The platform's integration with private cloud solutions provides flexibility and security, allowing for scalable and efficient data management.

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is designed to meet the needs of modern businesses by combining advanced technology with user-friendly tools. Whether it's through improved analytics, better BI solutions, upgraded data models, or robust mobile and cloud functionalities, the platform enhances my ability to make informed, strategic decisions based on accurate and timely data.

Installation and Upgrade Path

I'm providing guidance on installing and upgrading to SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, covering key preparation steps, migration strategies, and operating system and database support.

Preparing for SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025

Before starting the installation of SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, perform a detailed assessment of your current setup. Begin by reviewing existing infrastructure, including operating systems like Linux and Windows. Make sure your hardware meets the new system requirements.

Create a comprehensive plan that includes resource allocation and timelines. Ensure that all stakeholders are informed about the upgrade schedule and any potential downtimes. It’s essential to check compatibility with existing databases to avoid any disruption.

Upgrade Processes and Migration Strategies

Upgrading to SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 involves several critical steps. First, back up all data to prevent losses during the transition. Next, follow the official guide to upgrade from SAP BusinessObjects BI 4.3 or earlier versions.

A clear roadmap, detailing every phase of the upgrade, will help manage the complexity of this process and minimise disruptions.

If you want to learn more about you various upgrade paths and strategies then feel free to read this article I wrote called SAP Business Objects Upgrade: What you need to know.

Support for Operating Systems and Databases

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 provides ongoing maintenance, including regular support packages. The platform supports various operating systems, including modern versions of Linux and Windows. Make sure your system is updated to the required versions to avoid compatibility issues.

For databases, ensure that your current environment aligns with supported versions. This will involve reviewing support documents and guides to confirm compatibility. Regular updates and maintenance checks are crucial to staying within support boundaries and ensuring optimal performance.

Focus on these key areas will ensure a successful installation and upgrade of SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025.

User Experience and Accessibility

With SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, the focus is on enhancing user experience and improving accessibility. This includes making business intelligence (BI) tools more intuitive and ensuring seamless integration with commonly used software like Microsoft Office.

Role of User Experience in BI Adoption

User experience (UX) is vital for any BI tool. In my experience, if a tool is hard to use, people won't adopt it, no matter how powerful it is. SAP BI 2025 aims to make BI tools not just functional, but also enjoyable to use.

One of the key elements here is the improved dashboard feature. This feature makes reports not only visually appealing but also interactive. This is crucial for engaging casual users and power users alike. Another positive change is the streamlined report creation process, making it easier than ever to generate and share insights.

Focus on core workflows like report generation and information access ensures that users can get the data they need quickly and efficiently. By enhancing these workflows, SAP makes it simpler for users to make data-driven decisions.

Accessibility and Integration with Microsoft Office

Accessibility is another essential component. For many organisations, Microsoft Office is a staple. By integrating with Microsoft Office, SAP BI 2025 makes it easier to access and manipulate data within familiar tools like Excel and Word. This means users do not have to switch between different platforms to get their work done.

This integration includes features like embedding BI reports into Microsoft Office documents. This allows users to view and interact with BI data without leaving the Office environment. Additionally, SAP has worked on making these features accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the enhanced BI tools.

The ease of access to information extends to the cloud, allowing users to work from anywhere. This is essential for today’s mobile and remote work environments. The aim is to bring analytics closer to the decision-making process and reduce the time taken to move from insight to action.

Reporting and Data Visualisation

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 enhances both report creation and data visualisation capabilities. This section will discuss the improvements in generating reports and the tools available for creating engaging visuals.

Report Creation and Modification

Creating and modifying reports in SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is more streamlined. 

Web Intelligence is a tool that enables ad-hoc reporting, allowing me to generate quick insights from live data. It's flexible, supporting both novice and advanced users with its easy-to-navigate interface and powerful query capabilities.

Additionally, the new integrations simplify accessing data from various sources, ensuring all necessary information is available for comprehensive reports. This seamless process enhances productivity and accuracy by reducing the time needed to gather and format data.

Visualisation Tools and Capabilities

The visualisation capabilities in SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 are designed to make data more accessible and engaging. The platform supports various chart types, including line, bar, and pie charts, enabling the creation of interactive and visually appealing reports.

Advanced visualisation tools such as geospatial mapping and heat maps allow for deeper insights into data patterns and trends. Integrating these tools with SAP Analytics Cloud means I can leverage AI and machine learning to generate predictive analytics and dynamic visuals.

Furthermore, the focus on user experience means that visuals are not just informative but also intuitive. Interactivity features, like drill-downs and hover-over details, make it easier to explore data further, providing a richer understanding of the information presented.

Connection and Collaboration

In SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, the focus is on ensuring seamless data integration and fostering teamwork among users. I will look at single source and multi-source universes and the collaborative features present in the business intelligence suite.

Single Source and Multi-Source Universes

SAP BusinessObjects BI supports both single source .unx universes and multi-source universes. Single source .unx universes are built using a single database, making them straightforward. They enable faster query performance as there’s only one data source.

Multi-source universes, on the other hand, can connect multiple databases. This is critical for organisations needing to merge data from different systems. Multi-source universes provide a more comprehensive view of data by pulling information from various sources.

The support for both types ensures flexibility. Organisations can choose the method that best meets their needs. Moving from UNV to UNX universes is essential. This shift allows users to benefit from better performance and new features available in BI 4.3 and beyond.

Collaborative Features in the Business Intelligence Suite

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 enhances collaboration through several key features. BI 4.3 introduces improved shared workspaces where team members can work on reports and dashboards together. This fosters real-time collaboration.

Crystal Reports and other BI tools support commenting functions. Users can leave notes and feedback directly on reports, making it easier to review and discuss insights.

The suite also includes version control for reports and universes. This functionality is important for teams working on complex projects. It ensures that everyone is working off the most recent data and report versions. Enhanced role-based access control is another feature that improves collaboration. It allows users to share insights securely, ensuring only authorised personnel can access sensitive information.

Links] for reference:

SAP Analytics Business Intelligence Statement of Direction – May 2024 update

Administration and Security

The administration and security of SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 are critical to ensuring the platform runs smoothly and securely. Maintenance and support cover ongoing updates while robust security measures protect data.

Maintenance and Support Overview

SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 will follow a structured maintenance plan. The initial release is scheduled for Q4 2024, with Support Packages provided annually. According to SAP, mainstream maintenance will continue until at least the end of 2029, with priority 1 support extended until 2031.

Mainstream maintenance includes regular updates and patches, while priority 1 support focuses on critical issues that need immediate attention. This ensures the BI platform remains reliable and up-to-date. Users must be aware of these timelines to plan necessary upgrades and support packages.

Key Dates:

• First Release: Q4 2024
• Mainstream Maintenance: Until 2029
• Priority 1 Support: Until 2031

Security and Authentication Mechanisms

Securing the BI platform is crucial for protecting sensitive data. SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 includes several authentication mechanisms to ensure only authorised users have access to the system.

Authentication Methods:

• Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows users to access multiple applications with one set of login credentials.
• LDAP/Active Directory Integration: Uses existing directory services for user verification.
• Token-Based Authentication: Secures API interactions.

Security Features:

• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Limits access based on user roles, ensuring minimal rights necessary.
• Encryption: Protects data both at rest and in transit.

These mechanisms collectively enhance the security of the BI platform, safeguarding data from unauthorised access and ensuring compliance with security standards.

Future Roadmap and Innovations

The future of SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025 is focused on new releases, support schedules, and a clear direction for long-term planning. This ensures businesses can rely on continuous improvements and innovations.

Upcoming Releases and Schedule

SAP plans to release the first version of BI 2025 in the fourth quarter of 2024. Following this, there will be annual Support Packages to enhance features and address any issues. This schedule provides a structured approach to keep the system updated and aligned with user needs.

Mainstream maintenance for BI 2025 will be available until at least the end of 2029. There will also be priority 1 support until 2031. By sticking to this schedule, SAP ensures stability and extended support for businesses that depend on their business intelligence solutions.

Statement of Direction and Future Planning

The future planning for SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence includes making SAP Analytics Cloud the strategic focus for analytics and planning. This move aims to integrate data analysis and planning into a single cloud-based solution, enhancing decision-making processes.

SAP will provide alternatives for components not supported after version 4.3, ensuring a smooth transition for users. The involvement of early adopters through special programs encourages feedback directly from users, helping shape the development and future trajectory of BI 2025.

By committing to ongoing innovations and clear future planning, SAP aims to deliver a comprehensive business intelligence solution that evolves with the needs of its users.

On Premise vs Cloud

When considering SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, it's important to weigh the alternatives and supplementary solutions available. These options include comparing on-premise versus cloud solutions and expanding the BI toolkit with third-party applications.

Comparing On-Premise and Cloud Solutions

One major decision is whether to use an on-premise or cloud-based solution. On-premise solutions offer control and security, where your data stays within your own infrastructure. This can be crucial for industries with strict data regulations. With SAP BusinessObjects Private Cloud Edition, you get a middle-ground option allowing for cloud flexibility while maintaining some control.

In contrast, cloud solutions like SAP Analytics Cloud offer more scalability and reduce the need for extensive hardware investments. Cloud solutions also often provide easier updates and maintenance, making them appealing for companies looking for hassle-free implementation. This can greatly reduce IT overhead and allows for quick adjustments based on business needs.

Training and Resources

To help users transition to SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025, there are several training and support options available. These include structured educational materials, informative webinars, and active community support networks involving user groups.

Educational Materials and Webinars

SAP offers a variety of educational materials and webinars to ensure users are well-equipped to use SAP BusinessObjects BI 2025. The SAPBI course, for example, focuses on analysis and reporting tools within the SAP BusinessObjects BI Platform. This course covers key features, target users, and practical use cases.

Webinars are another valuable resource. These live sessions often feature expert presenters who can answer questions in real-time. Many webinars are archived, allowing users to revisit the content at their convenience.

Community Support and User Groups

The SAP community provides critical support through discussion forums, user groups, and blogs. The SAP BusinessObjects BI community page is a central hub where users can connect with peers and SAP experts. This interaction helps in exchanging technical information and tips.

User groups are also vital. They host meetings and events that focus on sharing experiences and solutions. Participation in these groups fosters a collaborative environment where users can learn from each other's successes and challenges.