How can you seamlessly automate data integration in Anaplan?

Pyry Peura, Customer Success Consultant and Data Integration SME. Pyry has deep knowledge of in API integration with Python, C#, and Java, including creating a custom script for SAP S4 HANA Cloud to Anaplan. He specialises in robust Anaplan solutions and demand planning for CPG customers.

Efficient data integration is the backbone of maintaining accurate and timely models in Anaplan. Businesses today have a variety of tools and approaches to automate data workflows, from built-in solutions like Anaplan Connect and Cloudworks to custom solutions using the Anaplan API. This post will explore different methods, including ETL tools, Anaplan Connect, Cloudworks, and how to build a Python-based solution using the Anaplan API.

Integration Methods for Anaplan

1. Anaplan Connect

Anaplan Connect is a command-line tool provided by Anaplan for automating data imports, exports, and process execution. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and ideal for batch data integrations.

Use Case:

• Automating nightly data imports from a database or flat files into Anaplan.

Setup Steps:

• Download and install Anaplan Connect.
• Configure a batch script that includes your Anaplan API credentials and the desired import or export actions.

Advantages:

• Simple and cost-effective.

• Best for scheduled batch updates.

2. Anaplan Cloudworks

Anaplan Cloudworks is a native integration tool within the Anaplan platform, allowing users to connect external systems (such as cloud data stores or data lakes) to Anaplan without coding.

Use Case:

• Synchronising data from cloud platforms like AWS or Azure into Anaplan in near-real-time.

Setup Steps:

• Access Cloudworks from within Anaplan’s user interface.
• Set up a new integration flow by selecting your cloud provider and configuring the data flow.

Advantages:

• Fully native to Anaplan, no external installations required.
• Excellent for seamless scheduled integrations with cloud platforms.

3. Custom Integration Using Anaplan API and Python

For businesses that need more flexibility, custom solutions using the Anaplan API and programming languages like Python offer full control over the data integration process.

Use Case:

• Real-time or batch integration where data is pulled from custom applications or APIs.

Setup Steps:

1. Install the Anaplan Python SDK or write custom Python code using the Anaplan REST API.
2. Authenticate using your Anaplan API credentials.
3. Send requests to import, export, or run processes in Anaplan.

Advantages:

• Fully customisable, works with any data source.
• Ability to handle complex workflows, triggers, or real-time integration.

4. ETL Tools

ETL tools such as Informatica, Dell Boomi, and MuleSoft remain popular for automating large-scale data integrations. These tools provide powerful data transformation features and connectors for a variety of systems, making them ideal for enterprise-level workflows.

Use Case:

• Automating data pipelines between ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and Anaplan.

Advantages:

• Extensive data transformation and cleansing capabilities.
• Integration with a wide range of systems.

Anaplan Data Orchestrator

Recently Anaplan has also launched Anaplan Data Orchestrator (ADO) which is exciting tool for data integration for Anaplan. Anaplan Data Orchestrator has prebuilt connectors to many widely used systems like SAP, Salesforce and Snowflake. Anaplan Data Orchestrator can be used for ETL processes within Anaplan and scheduling of data integration can be managed efficiently from ADO.

Use Case:

• Automating data pipelines between different source systems with prebuilt connects

Advantages:

• Data Integration and transformation handled within Anaplan
• Orchestration of data transfer to Anaplan Models
• Integration with wide range of systems

Conclusion

Each of these integration methods has its strengths depending on the business’s needs. For lightweight batch integrations, Anaplan Connect is a cost-effective solution. Cloudworks is ideal for seamless cloud-based data integration, while custom Python scripts using the Anaplan API provide full flexibility. For large enterprises, ETL tools and ADO offer powerful data transformation and automation capabilities.

Choosing the right tool for your Anaplan integration depends on the scale, complexity, and real-time requirements of your data flows. With these methods, you can automate data processes efficiently, ensuring your Anaplan models are always current and reliable.

FAQs about Data Integration in Anaplan

1. How does Anaplan handle data integration from existing spreadsheets or other systems?

Anaplan offers several methods for integrating data from spreadsheets or other systems:

• Manual Import: You can manually upload data from spreadsheets or other files into Anaplan using the import wizard.
• Anaplan Connect: This command-line tool allows you to automate data imports and exports from various sources, including spreadsheets and databases.
• Cloudworks: Anaplan’s native integration tool enables you to connect to cloud data sources and synchronise data seamlessly to Anaplan.
• Custom Integrations: For complex scenarios, you can use the Anaplan API and programming languages like Python to build custom integrations.
• Anaplan Data Orchestrator: Native ETL tool within Anaplan allowing Extract, Transform and Load capabilities within Anaplan.

2. Can we import data from multiple sources simultaneously?

Yes, you can import data from multiple sources simultaneously using Anaplan Connect, Cloudworks, or custom integrations. This allows you to create complex data pipelines that combine data from different systems.

3. Are there any limitations on the types or formats of data that Anaplan can work with?

Anaplan can work with a wide range of data types and formats, including:

• Numerical data: Integers, decimals, and percentages
• Text data: Strings, characters, and formulas
• Date and time data
• Boolean data: True/false values
• Lists and sets

4. Is there a limit to the amount of data that can be imported into Anaplan?

There is no strict limit to the amount of data that can be imported into Anaplan. However, performance may degrade as the volume of data increases. It’s important to optimise your Anaplan model and consider using data partitioning or summarisation techniques to improve performance.

5. How frequently can we update or refresh our data within Anaplan?

You can update or refresh your data in Anaplan as frequently as needed. The update frequency depends on the integration method you’re using and your specific requirements. For example, you can use Anaplan Cloudworks to synchronise data in real-time, while Anaplan Connect is suitable for batch updates.

You can also check out our other frequently asked questions for more information, including:

• Support and maintenance here
• Data driven decisions and streamline reporting here
• Save time and boost organisational efficiency here
• Increase collaboration whilst managing user access here
• Forecast accuracy and optimise performance here