Creating Datasets

Objective

After completing this lesson, you will be able to create a dataset.

Datasets

What is a dataset? A dataset is a simple collection of data, usually presented in a table. You can use a dataset as the basis for your story, and as a data source for Smart Predict. Datasets are a good choice when you want to create stories quickly and do not want to get into structure definition or when development does not demand IT governance.

Create Datasets

Access the Datasets menu option from the SAP Analytics Cloud side navigation. From there, you can create public datasets based on a file or an import data source.

How to open the Welcome to Datasets from the SAC navigation bar.

Public and Embedded Datasets

Public datasets are data sources that can be used in multiple stories by any users who have access to them. They can be created directly from the vertical toolbar and can also be used for Smart Predict.

Embedded datasets are created in and exist in only a single story, and cannot be shared or used in other stories or with Smart Predict. However, if you need others to be able to use this dataset, you can convert it to a public dataset.

Datasets are intended to supplement models and be used only for ad-hoc, ungoverned data analysis.

Datasets versus Models

CharacteristicsDatasetsLive ModelsImport Models
PurposeAd-hoc/Smart predictPlanning (BPC Embedded only)Planning and Analysis
Scheduled imports availableNoNoYes
Public or embeddedBothPublicPublic
Table1 data tableDimensions and data tablesDimensions and data tables
Calculated measuresNoNoYes
Data Security in SAP Analytics CloudNoNoYes

Create a Public Dataset

Business Example: You have a file with HR data and you need to create a public dataset so that it can be used in multiple stories.

Task Flow: In this practice exercise, you will:

  • Create a dataset based on a file.
  • Switch date columns to dimension data types.
  • Solve a data type issue.