Disaggregation and allocations are both used to distribute data in SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC)—but they serve very different purposes. Knowing when to use one over the other is key to building accurate, efficient, and scalable planning workflows. This article explains the distinction and helps you decide which tool best fits your planning needs.
Disaggregation vs. Allocation
| Feature | Disaggregation | Allocation |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
Spreads values from parent to leaf within the same dimension |
Redistributes values across dimensions or data slices using logic |
|
Triggered by |
Manual input in a story table |
Predefined step in a data action |
|
Scope |
Simple and local |
Cross-dimensional and structured |
|
Logic |
Equal, proportional, or rule-based (via planning panel) |
Fully customizable via drivers, filters, and source-target mapping |
|
Reusability |
Happens during input |
Reusable in data/multi actions |
Choosing Between Allocations and Disaggregation
| Use Allocations When… | Use Disaggregation When… |
|---|---|
|
You need to move data across dimensions |
You’re entering a value at a parent and want SAC to break it down |
|
Your logic involves reference data or drivers |
Your logic is straightforward (equal or proportional split) |
|
You want to automate the flow across models, versions, or time |
You’re doing one-off top-down input in a table |
When to Use Allocations.
Use allocations when your planning task requires more than just a breakdown of a number. Choose allocations if you need to:
- Move data across versions, time periods, or entities
- e.g., shifting Q1 values into Q2, or from “Working Budget” to “Forecast”
- Distribute overhead or shared costs using a driver
- e.g., spreading corporate marketing spend to regions based on sales contribution
- Allocate across dimensions
- e.g., moving data from one cost center to several others, or from product category to SKU level
- Apply structured, repeatable logic
- Allocations can be built into data actions and reused across planning cycles
- Enforce consistent logic across users and teams
- Since allocations are centrally defined, they ensure everyone uses the same rule set
