SAP BW4HANA Reviews

Vendor: SAP

3.8 out of 5

43 reviews
86% willing to recommend

What is SAP BW4HANA?

SAP BW4HANA is a data warehouse solution developed by SAP for businesses looking to analyze big data in real time. It is designed to run on the SAP HANA database, offering improved performance and optimized processing of large data sets. SAP BW/4HANA provides an array of advanced analytics capabilities, including predictive analytics, text analytics, and spatial data processing. It also offers a modern, intuitive user interface and streamlined data modeling and administration tools, making it easier for businesses to access, manage, and utilize their data.

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SAP BW4HANA is the #9 ranked solution in top Data Warehouse solutions. PeerSpot users give SAP BW4HANA an average rating of 7.6 out of 10. SAP BW4HANA is most commonly compared to Teradata: SAP BW4HANA vs Teradata. SAP BW4HANA is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 69% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 16% of all views.

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Featured SAP BW4HANA reviews

AjayKumar7

Manager, Business Analytics, BI Lead at Capgemini

I like the modeling and reporting capabilities. Real-time processing isn't BW/4HANA's strongest point. We typically run batch jobs for this purpose. So, it's not good for real-time reporting. BW/4HANA's modeling is quite intuitive because even those without technical database knowledge can model data from a business perspective. The tool can still be done without knowing the database functionalities of the data warehouse. Even if someone doesn't understand the database functionalities, you can still model. It provides the functions in a way that even a less technical person can do the modeling. The tool facilitates modeling for non-technical users, ensuring good modeling results.

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Csaba Grünblatt

Senior Data, Data warehouse and BI/Analytics Architect at Techwave.

SAP BW4HANA improved data reporting processes significantly. Performance on HANA database is good. Well-built data models ensure consistent and fast reporting. Reusable models enhance efficiency, even for SaaS services. In-memory computing, especially since HANA, has greatly improved performance in data analysis tasks. It eliminates the need for complex optimizations like creating indexes or aggregates. Queries that once took minutes now run in seconds, enabling real-time reporting, especially for SAP ECC on HANA. SAP BW4HANA's integration capabilities are streamlined with a simplified architecture and more virtual layers. You can directly load data into optimized layers, reducing the need for extra storage. The introduction of Open ODS Views allows for additional logic and master data inclusion, making integration faster and simpler. The learning curve for SAP BW4HANA is much faster now compared to ten years ago, thanks to abundant free resources like documentation, videos, blogs, and learning journeys provided by SAP. It is simpler to learn with these resources available compared to the past when you had to attend courses and rely on books. I would recommend SAP BW4HANA to users looking to implement it, especially if they want to keep their systems on-premise and already have SAP systems. Those with BW on HANA have two choices: BW4HANA or DataSphere, depending on their cloud strategy. If they are advanced in their cloud strategy and want to migrate off-premise, DataSphere is a good choice. However, for a robust solution on-premise or in a private cloud, BW4HANA is an excellent option. Overall, I would rate BW4HANA as a nine out of ten. It performs all necessary data warehouse tasks and offers additional functionalities. We use it traditionally, with complex transformations and models but with less emphasis on real-time processing and third-party sources.

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DilipRoshantha

Head Of Information Technology at Noratel

There have been no hiccups for my company when it comes to integrating SAP products with the data analytics and the transactional systems since my company uses SAP PI for it, but lately my organization has been using SAP Process Orchestration for data integration. With SAP, there is a small visualization part inside SAP BW4HANA. I can visualize some of the reports with the help of SAP BW4HANA. The tool can be configured and is compatible with all SAP applications, which makes it a good product. I believe that the product has the capabilities to cater to various business requirements. The product does offer value for money. There are big customers along with medium or small customers. Small and medium-sized customers cannot afford the cost of the tool's licensing. From a value point of view, in business terms, it is good. I rate the tool a nine out of ten.

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SAP BW4HANA mindshare

As of July 2025, the mindshare of SAP BW4HANA in the Data Warehouse category stands at 4.3%, down from 4.8% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Data Warehouse

PeerResearch reports based on SAP BW4HANA reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Data Warehouse	Jul 11, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Jul 11, 2025	Download
Comparison	SAP BW4HANA vs Snowflake	Jul 11, 2025	Download
Comparison	SAP BW4HANA vs Oracle Exadata	Jul 11, 2025	Download
Comparison	SAP BW4HANA vs Teradata	Jul 11, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Teradata	4.1	15.5%	87%	76 interviews Add to research
Snowflake	4.2	14.0%	97%	100 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

SAP BW4HANA's strengths include robust and flexible processes, user-friendly interface, efficient integration with SAP products, and high-performance data reading. It supports real-time and predictive analytics, simplifies reporting, and enables data transformation and visualization. Its agile framework and ease of administration enhance value. Preconfigured business content and the ability to handle big data and complex calculations provide distinct benefits. Suitable for various enterprise data needs, it promotes customization and planning efficiency.

"I rate this solution a 10."
"Technology-wise, it is a very robust tool."
"I like the tool's robustness and security."

Room for Improvement

Users are concerned about SAP BW4HANA's complex setup and integration difficulties, especially with non-SAP tools. They seek improved performance, graphical reporting, better mobile and automated reports, and simplified interfaces. Cost is a major consideration as many find it high compared to competitors. Migration processes and dynamic updates need simplification. Enhanced AI integration and user-friendly interfaces would be beneficial. Users desire improved licensing clarity and more responsive technical support.

"Regarding SAP support, I have raised many support tickets but did not receive adequate support. It took more than months to get responses."
"The problem is the expensive pricing of technical support, making it an area where improvements are required."
"The interface could be more user-friendly, as we often need to do low-level coding to get things done."

ROI

SAP BW4HANA provides a centralized data platform enhancing decision-making and productivity through high-quality data and in-memory databases. Although full ROI assessment occurs over a few years, some companies have already achieved tangible returns, including savings in time and money. Initial phases focus on user adoption and intangible advantages, with internal metrics focusing beyond immediate financial returns.

Pricing

SAP BW4HANA is generally considered expensive, with additional costs beyond standard licensing fees, including support and migration expenses. Pricing varies based on usage plans, negotiation skills, and corporate discounts, making it crucial for enterprises to evaluate their specific investment needs. While larger organizations may find it affordable, the cost challenges smaller companies. Different licensing models, such as perpetual or subscription-based options, offer flexibility. The solution's value depends on how effectively enterprises negotiate and leverage contracts with SAP.

"The tool is affordable."
"We have a broad licensing arrangement, which is expensive but worth it for sizeable businesses."
"The cost of ownership is higher. It's resource-intensive, and naturally, that increases costs."

Popular Use Cases

SAP BW4HANA is used primarily for data warehousing, reporting, and analytics. Users leverage it for ERP purposes, generating sales, service, financial, and operational reports. It acts as a central data repository for integrating data from various sources, providing insights via dashboards and visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. Organizations utilize it for business intelligence, KPI analysis, and decision-making, with both on-premise and cloud deployments available to support real-time analytics and data consolidation.

Service and Support

SAP BW4HANA's customer service and support receive mixed feedback. Technical support is often rated well, though users note response times can vary, with some experiencing delays in issue resolution. Successful support may depend on contract terms and ticket priority. While many users find SAP's resources and knowledge base valuable, others face challenges in getting timely answers, sometimes turning to self-solution. Third-party partners or internal teams may supplement support effectively.

Deployment

SAP BW4HANA's initial setup varies in complexity. It is considered complex by some, requiring specialist knowledge. Complexity depends on customization needs and business factors. Deployment durations range from a few days to a year, determined by project size and requirements. Managed services simplify the process, minimizing user involvement. Maintenance generally involves several people, while expertise in SAP architecture can ease challenges. Prior experience facilitates smoother implementation, though specific components may demand additional skills.

Scalability

SAP BW4HANA offers scalability with effective support for large user bases and enterprise-level organizations. Its scalability relies on hardware, often requiring additional servers for increased user loads. While cloud options simplify scaling, on-premises configurations demand careful planning for data volume. The tool's architecture adapts well to increasing needs, though hardware costs can be significant. It empowers diverse industries and handles varying numbers of users, making it suitable for both medium and large companies.

Stability

SAP BW4HANA demonstrates strong stability, with users affirming its reliable, bug-free performance. Most evaluations highlight its robust stability, with some recommending improvements. While primarily on-premises, scalability limits are noted; however, SAP BW4HANA remains favored for its mature development and seamless functioning. Users appreciate its integration, data presentation flexibility, and enduring reliability, particularly when paired with HANA. Its stability rating is often eight or nine out of ten, though scalability in cloud environments is a growing consideration.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our SAP BW4HANA Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Manufacturing Company

16%

Financial Services Firm

10%

Computer Software Company

10%

Retailer

Energy/Utilities Company

Government

Transportation Company

University

Educational Organization

Comms Service Provider

Wholesaler/Distributor

Real Estate/Law Firm

Construction Company

Hospitality Company

Insurance Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Consumer Goods Company

Healthcare Company

Engineering Company

Media Company

Non Profit

Performing Arts

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Logistics Company

Mining And Metals Company

Outsourcing Company

Non Tech Company

Compare SAP BW4HANA with alternative products

Learn more about SAP BW4HANA

SAP BW4HANA Features

SAP BW4HANA has many valuable key features. Some of the most useful ones include:

In-memory data processing: The solution runs on the SAP HANA database, providing fast and efficient data processing.

Advanced analytics: SAP BW4HANA includes capabilities for predictive analytics, text analytics, and spatial data processing.

Data modeling and administration: The solution provides streamlined data modeling and administration tools for efficient data management.

Modern user interface: SAP BW4HAN is designed with a modern, intuitive user interface for easier data access and analysis.

Data warehousing optimization: The solution is optimized for big data warehousing, offering improved performance and scalability.

Integration with SAP ecosystem: SAP BW4HAN integrates with the SAP ecosystem, including SAP S/4HANA and SAP Cloud Platform, for seamless data exchange.

Real-time data processing: It supports real-time data processing and analysis, enabling businesses to make data-driven decisions.

Data governance and security: With its robust data governance and security features, SAP BW4HAN can be used for secure data management and compliance.

Automated data loading: SAP BW4HAN supports automated data loading from various sources, including SAP and non-SAP systems.

Advanced data visualization: With its advanced data visualization capabilities, users can generate better data insights and make more informed business decisions.

SAP BW4HANA Benefits

There are many benefits to implementing SAP BW4HANA. Some of the biggest advantages the solution offers include:

Improved data processing speed: Running on the SAP HANA database, SAP BW/4HANA provides fast and efficient data processing, resulting in improved performance and reduced downtime.

Streamlined data management: The solution's streamlined data modeling and administration tools make it easier for organizations to manage their data, improving overall efficiency and reducing the risk of errors.

Improved data governance: SAP BW/4HANA includes robust data governance and security features, helping organizations meet regulatory requirements and protect sensitive data.

Cost savings: By optimizing data warehousing processes, SAP BW/4HANA helps organizations reduce costs and improve their bottom line.

Reviews from Real Users

SAP BW4HANA is a solution that stands out when compared to many of its competitors. Some of its major advantages are its hierarchical alert slicing, real-time insights, and its ability to transform large amounts of data.

PeerSpot reviewer, Srivatsav A., SAP BW/4HANA Specialist at a government, is very happy with the solution. He explains, "You can do hierarchical alert slicing and dicing out-of-box, which is not available in other solutions. I haven't come across that in Oracle or any other software provider."

“It has got wonderful features in terms of analyzing your production data, and it gives you real-time insight into productive maintenance. You can plan your budget, and you can map them against actuals. It gives you good insights on overall performance and processes,” says Amrit J., ERP Application Manager at an energy/utilities company.

In addition, a Technology Analyst at a tech services company mentions, "The most valuable feature is that we can transform a huge amount of data and apply business logic as per the requirements."

SAP BW4HANA was previously known as SAP BW/4HANA.