Bridging the Gap: Extending Power BI into a FP&A Solution
What FP&A software is the best?
There is not a perfect FP&A software that magically aligns with every organization's processes. Most use Excel paired with an analytics tool like Power BI. Power BI is a powerful tool for analytics and reporting but has a key limitation – it struggles to be used as an FP&A solution where things like master data management, planning and forecasting, user collaboration, and commentary all become important. This gap has made it difficult for many organizations to fully transition away from home grown Excel solutions or expensive dedicated software.
If you are exploring FP&A solutions to integrate into your existing Power BI reporting framework, three leading options stand out: Aimplan, Acterys, and Power ON. These tools are designed to extend Power BI with features such as real-time data input and collaboration, scenario modeling, master data management, and advanced financial planning.
If your head is spinning as you read software vendor websites with terms like “real-time,” “streamlined planning,” and “improved productivity,” you are not alone. It can be difficult to know if a solution has an elegant and native functionality as you envision it, or if some custom-built workarounds need to be built to meet the requirements.
We are here to help clear the air on this.
Core Features Power BI-based Solutions
These tools extend Power BI with many rich features such as:
- Seamless integration within the Power BI environment as a custom visual
- Cloud SQL databases for planning data, comments, and user inputs
- Flexible table structures with customizable columns
- Input and view controls, including dropdowns, free text fields, checkboxes, role-based security (RLS), and input locking
- Built-in mathematical operations for planning and forecasting
- Custom visuals that resemble Power BI’s native Matrix and Table visuals
- Master data management & role-based security for governance
- End-user commenting and workflow processing for collaboration
- Audit logs to track and review data submissions
- Extensive product documentation to support implementation and training
While each solution offers real-time processing, streamlined planning, and improved productivity, the right choice depends on your specific needs. Even if a particular feature is not explicitly listed on a vendor’s website, these platforms are highly configurable, making it possible to tailor them to your business requirements.
Key Differentiators & Strengths
Aimplan
- Advanced matrix structure customization with isolated row and column filters, formatting, and field controls
- No need to duplicate dimensional hierarchies within the FP&A tool
- Intuitive copy-and-paste functionality within the Power BI service
- Transparent pricing—all features and visuals included without tiered subscription limitations
- Power BI Focus — enabling everything to be done within Power BI service rather than Excel
Acterys
- Pre-built solution templates (Rapid Results Packs) for faster implementation
- Excel add-in integration for users who prefer working within spreadsheets
- Specialized visuals for variance reporting and Gantt charts
- Tiered premium features based on subscription level
Power ON
- Excel-like interface and experience for a familiar feel
- Extensive formatting options to align with specific reporting needs
- Quantitative input through Line and Bar Charts
- Waterfall charting optimized for financial summaries
The table below highlights some of the differences when comparing the three tools.
Which FP&A Solution is Right for You?
The best choice depends on your organization's priorities, workflows, and user preferences. Whether you need structured FP&A capabilities, multi-source data integration, or real-time collaborative planning, each tool offers distinct advantages.
Need help finding the right fit? We can guide you in selecting the best solution for your team. Let’s discuss your specific requirements!
