Business Intelligence Tools and Technologies

Dashboard and Visualization Tools

• IBM Cognos Analytics is a cloud-based BI software powered by AI, offering self-service and geospatial capabilities, seamless access on desktop or mobile devices, and advanced analytics, customization, and scalable distribution.

IBM Cognos Analytics

• Preferred by cloud users
• Highly scalable and customizable
• Built-in AI features for accelerated and improved data blending
• Lacks comprehensive dashboard features
• Steep learning curve due to numerous features
• High-priced with additional paid features

Tableau

• Exceptional data visualization capabilities
• User-friendly interface for creating intuitive visualizations and interactive dashboards
• Drag-and-drop functionality for data exploration and insight gain
• Advanced analytics capabilities for complex calculations, statistical analysis, and forecasting
• Integration with R and Python for advanced analytics
• Seamless integration with various data sources
• Extensive library of pre-built visualizations and interactive elements
• Vast repository of resources and community support
• Limited data preparation capabilities
• Rely on other tools for data preparation
• Expensive licensing options
• Steep learning curve for navigating advanced features and complex data models

Power BI

• Specialized data visualization capabilities
• Seamless integration with Microsoft products (Excel, SharePoint, Teams, Power Automate, and Azure)
• Ability to leverage existing data sources and collaborate within the Microsoft ecosystem
• Question-and-answer feature for interacting using natural language
• Instant answers through visualizations
• Access to reports and dashboards on the go through Power BI Mobile apps
• Collection of pre-trained machine learning models enhancing data preparation efforts
• Popular with Microsoft Office users
• Robust sharing and collaboration capabilities with access control policies
• Cheap licensing costs attracting small and medium businesses
• Limited customization and data modeling capabilities
• Premium subscriptions for some advanced features

Looker

• Cloud-based self-service data visualization and exploration tool
• Powerful data modeling layer for defining relationships between datasets and creating reusable metrics and dimensions
• Data visualization integrations into applications or websites
• Granular access controls, auditing capabilities, and integration with single sign-on providers for securing sensitive data
• Favored by companies invested in cloud infrastructure
• Model customization and complex calculations through LookML (Looker Modeling language)
• Capability to extend functionality as needed through comprehensive APIs
• Detailed user-interaction history through granular access control and auditing capabilities
• Need for SQL and database expertise
• Long render times for large data sets
• No budget-friendly pricing plan