Essbase vs SAP Profitability and Performance Management

Essbase is a multidimensional database with a fast querying engine and an intuitive interface. Available both in the cloud or on-premises, it enables users to build and manage analytic applications, which can be migrated to the cloud. It features a robust set of tools to perform planning, forecasting and analytics. Users can slice and dice intersections easily to find specific data. It can be integrated with Excel, enabling users to build budget and forecasting models, with ad hoc reporting capabilities. Users liked the flexibility offered when designing reports, or changing hierarchies. With access to all optimization and tuning options, users are given control of hardware utilizations and other settings. However, users complained that they needed to learn multiple languages, such as Calc scripts, MDX, business rules and Groovy, to leverage the platform’s capabilities. They also found it difficult to export data or integrate it with a data warehouse. Some users reported performance and stability issues, with rare instances of crashes and connection loss. Reviewers also complained about the low level of support provided when critical tickets are submitted, some of which are closed without providing any solution. Overall, it’s a flexible solution with a powerful calculation engine to drive business insights.

Can SAP Profitability and Performance Management make your business perform better, or is it just a lot of hype? User reviews from the last year reveal a mixed bag. On the plus side, SAP Profitability & Performance Management consistently wows users with its robust financial analytics and ability to handle complex cost allocations, such as step-down allocations for warranty reserve management, without breaking a sweat. This, coupled with its lightning-fast performance on the SAP HANA platform, makes it a darling for businesses dealing with large data volumes and intricate calculations. Users especially love how it simplifies financial planning and reporting, allowing them to generate detailed insights and make data-driven decisions faster. The software's integration with other SAP systems, like SAP ERP, is also praised for streamlining data flow. However, it's not all sunshine and roses. The learning curve is steep, and users frequently cite the need for extensive training during implementation due to the system's complexity. One user even compared it to learning a new language! The lack of comprehensive documentation only adds fuel to the fire, leaving users feeling lost and frustrated. Additionally, while not a deal-breaker, some users have reported encountering occasional bugs and quirks that require attention. For example, the connectivity with SAP Analytics Cloud, while promised, is still in development, limiting its full potential. Despite these hiccups, SAP Profitability & Performance Management stands out from its predecessor, SAP PCM, and other similar products with its superior flexibility, enhanced performance, and advanced simulation capabilities. The visual modeling and step-by-step data transformation functions are particularly noteworthy, providing crystal-clear insights and simplifying model maintenance. This makes it ideal for businesses looking to ditch error-prone spreadsheets and embrace a more robust, transparent, and repeatable process for profitability and performance management. In conclusion, SAP Profitability & Performance Management is a powerful tool, best suited for large enterprises with complex business processes and a dedicated IT team to support implementation and training. While it requires a significant investment of time and resources upfront, the long-term benefits in terms of improved profitability, streamlined financial planning, and data-driven decision-making are undeniable.