Add Data Models to a Story

Learn how to add, replace, or manage data models in SAP Analytics Cloud stories to power your visualizations and enable cross-model analysis.
Beginner
August 6, 2025

Introduction

To build impactful stories in SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC), you need to start with the right data. This is where data models come in. A model serves as the structured data foundation behind every chart, table, or calculation you create in your story. 

What is a Data Model in SAC?

A data model in SAC defines how data is structured, including dimensions (like region or product), measures (like revenue or quantity), hierarchies, and calculations. It can be based on: 

  • Acquired data (imported into SAC) 
  • Live data connections (such as SAP BW, SAP HANA, or other sources) 

Models provide the underlying logic and fields that feed into your visualizations. 

How to Add a Data Model to a Story

Option 1: When Creating a New Story

  1. Navigate to the Create > Story option in the SAC menu. 
  2. After selecting Blank Canvas or Template, you’ll be prompted to add a model. 
  3. Choose an existing model from your workspace or connect to a new data source. 

Option 2: From Within an Existing Story

  1. Open your story in Edit mode. 
  2. In the top toolbar, click the Add Data or Add Model option. 
  3. Select one or more models to add. You can add multiple models for blending or filtering across different datasets. 
  4. The attached models are visible in the Add New Data dropdown in the menu 

Tip

  • If you use a chart or table before adding a model, SAC will automatically prompt you to select one before continuing

Replace or Remove a Data Model

If your model structure changes or if you want to switch to a more updated version: 

  • Go to Add New Data > Select the model > Select [ Replace, Remove, or set as default] 
  • You can choose to Replace Model, which will update widgets that are compatible with the new structure. 
  • To remove a model entirely, make sure no widgets are using it and select Remove Model from the same menu.. 

Working with Multiple Models

You can add multiple models in a single story to support: 

  • Blending: Combine data across models to create unified charts. 
  • Linked Dimensions: Use common dimensions (like time or region) to enable cross-model filtering. 

Be aware that performance may vary depending on the size and type of models used (especially with live connections). 

Best Practices

  • Name your models clearly to avoid confusion when using multiple datasets. 
  • Pre-clean your data in the model layer before connecting it to your story. 
  • For live models, test response time and widget rendering early to avoid slow story loading. 
  • If you plan to use blending or filters across models, ensure consistent dimension naming and hierarchy setup. 

Learning Path

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