G2

James K.

GenAI Specialist

Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

9/16/2026

"Intuitive Excel Frontend with Fast, Scalable Planning on SAP HANA"

4/5

What do you like best about SAP Integrated Business Planning?

The Excel Frontend: SAP designed IBP with an Excel add-in user interface. Planners who spent decades working in spreadsheets find the transition highly intuitive because they can view and manipulate live cloud data using familiar Excel formulas and formatting. Speed and Scale: Because it runs on the SAP HANA in-memory database, it handles massive data sets across global networks rapidly, allowing for quick scenario analysis. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What do you dislike about SAP Integrated Business Planning?

Web UI vs. Excel Dissonance: While planners love the Excel interface for data entry, some administrative tasks, analytics dashboards, and configuration settings must be done via the Web UI, which can feel fractured. Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While basic forecasting is straightforward, advanced features like multi-echelon inventory optimization or complex response algorithms require deep mathematical and supply chain expertise to configure correctly. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What problems is SAP Integrated Business Planning solving and how is that benefiting you?

Data Silos and Fragmented Planning: Traditionally, sales teams, finance departments, and supply chain planners work out of isolated spreadsheets or separate software systems. SAP IBP provides a single source of truth by natively integrating with core ERP systems like SAP S/4HANA, ensuring everyone plans against the exact same data. The Bullwhip Effect and Poor Forecast Accuracy: Sudden shifts in consumer demand often amplify as they travel up the supply chain, leading to severe inventory shortages or massive gluts. IBP uses machine learning algorithms and real-time market signals to create highly accurate, automated demand forecasts. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.