Qlik Sense or SAP Analytics Cloud: Which Is Right for You?

Published on 02.04.2025
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BI-Blog

Choosing between Qlik Sense and SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) largely depends on the specific use case, the existing IT landscape, and the needs of the users.

Qlik is a powerful platform for data analysis and visualization that can be deployed both in the cloud and on-premises—depending on the specific needs of the organization. With Qlik Sense as its modern BI tool, the solution enables real-time data analytics through direct connections to a wide range of data sources, including ERP systems, databases, cloud services, and local files. One of its standout features is the Associative Engine, which allows users to intuitively explore data relationships rather than follow predefined query paths. Qlik supports hybrid scenarios and offers high flexibility for integration into existing IT landscapes—including SAP environments, thanks to certified connectors for SAP BW, S/4HANA, and SAP HANA.

SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) is a cloud-based all-in-one solution for analytics, planning, and reporting, particularly known for its seamless real-time integration with SAP systems. It connects directly to sources like SAP S/4HANA, SAP BW, and SAP HANA—whether in the cloud or on-premises—enabling instant analysis and visualization of up-to-date enterprise data. With these live data connections, users always work with the latest information without the need for duplication or exports. This empowers fast, data-driven decision-making and promotes cross-departmental collaboration within a central, intuitive platform.

  Qlik Sense versus SAC SAP Analytics Cloud

Here is a comparison of the two BI tools across various levels:

General Description

AspectQlik SenseSAP Analytics Cloud (SAC)
ProviderQlikSAP
FocusSelf-service BI, data visualization, data discoveryIntegrated cloud platform for BI, planning, and predictive analytics
DeploymentCloud & On-PremisesCloud (Public or Private Cloud)

Data Analysis and Visualization

AspectQlik SenseSAC
UI & DashboardsHighly interactive, associative data modelingTypical SAP look & feel, good integration with SAP Fiori
Data ModelAssociative model, highly flexibleOptimized for HANA, but less exploratory
Self-ServiceVery strong: drag & drop, easy data combinationMore limited, especially with complex data models

Data Integration

AspectQlik SenseSAC
SAP IntegrationPossible, but additional effort needed for e.g. BW, S/4Seamless with BW, S/4HANA, HANA, etc.
Third-PartyBroad support (SQL, APIs, Excel, etc.)Good, but SAP-centric
Live Data AccessPossible, often via Qlik Data GatewayVery strong for SAP sources with live connections

Form

Planning & Forecasting

AspectQlik SenseSAC
PlanningVia extensions or external toolsIntegrated: BI + Planning + Predictive in one tool
ForecastingAdd-ons with custom modelsIntegrated: e.g. predictive scenarios, time series forecasting

Artificial Intelligence & Augmented Analytics

AspectQlik SenseSAC
AI SupportInsight Advisor (automated analyses, chat)Smart Insights, Smart Discovery, Natural Language Query
AutomationGood, via scripting and extensionsBuilt-in, with strong focus on business users

Security & Governance

AspectQlik SenseSAC
GovernanceRole-based, highly configurableVery strong within SAP landscapes
Data Lineage / TraceabilityPossible, but more technicalHighly integrated, e.g. with data catalogs

Licensing & Costs

AspectQlik SenseSAC
Licensing ModelUser-based or capacity-basedUser-based, plans available for BI/planning
CostsRelatively flexible, but add-ons may be neededDepends on SAP contract, often included in SAP Cloud Suite

Extensibility

AspectQlik SenseSAC
Extendable via ExtensionsVery strong (Open API, Qlik Branch)Possible, but rather limited
CommunityActive and creative (e.g. Qlik Branch)Strong within SAP circles, but less open-source oriented

Conclusion – When to Use Which Tool?

If you...Then better choose:
have a heterogeneous data landscape (SAP + non-SAP)Qlik Sense
need deep, exploratory analysesQlik Sense
are already heavily integrated into the SAP ecosystem (BW, S/4) and are not aiming for a neutral data platformSAC
want BI, planning & forecasting in one toolSAC
want a high degree of self-service freedomQlik Sense
want predictive & planning with a single clickSAC
aim to work cost-efficientlyQlik Sense
want to create dashboards within your controlling departmentQlik Sense

At Informatec, we have the expertise to support companies in making an informed decision between SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) and Qlik. We have successfully implemented numerous SAP projects across various industries and understand the specific characteristics and integration possibilities of both solutions in detail. Based on this experience, we have bundled our best practices into a powerful tool: iVIEW for SAP. This tool simplifies the connection to SAP systems, data processing, and visualization—without any coding. With solution templates for over 50 SAP-compatible modules, iVIEW enables fast and easy integration based on the plug-and-play principle. Curious? Discover the benefits of iVIEW for SAP and learn how to make smarter use of your SAP data.

Read more about iVIEW for SAP

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