BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER'S GUIDE 2020
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2020
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
BUYER’S GUIDE
1
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
MARKET OVERVIEW
The process for evaluating and selecting business intelligence software can be complex. These complexities
are growing even wider when organizations consider emerging analytic capabilities like AI and machine
learning. Augmented analytics – which uses machine learning to change how analytic content is developed
and used – is set to become the dominant driver of new BI buying by 2021, according to analyst house
Gartner, Inc. If your use cases involve a large degree of manual data analysis, augmented analytics products
may be an immediate consideration.
Automation is impacting virtually every industry and business process, and data analytics software is about
to become the next frontier. The technology behind automating analytics is heavily reliant on AI and machine
learning. While some organizations are using this functionality already to speed past manual data tasks, BI
solution providers are increasingly tying automation to natural language processing. This will soon enable an
entire swath of business users to run complex analysis just by asking a question.
Auditable (or explainable) AI is an emerging field in machine learning that addresses how black box decisions
of AI systems are made. In data analytics, users want to be able to inspect and understand the steps and
models involved in decision making. And given the pervasive nature of AI-powered business intelligence
tools entering the marketplace, this technology is quickly becoming mainstream. AI will continue to be a
game-changer for BI users, especially those without technical data science skills. However, the best AI-
focused data analytics tools can explain the processes behind each prediction.
Business user ease of use and complexity of analysis are two top-of-mind considerations for buyers in the
current space. Product support capabilities and services offered are also key attributes that require some
thought. Common support packages include assistance for non-technical users who require self-service,
but there’s also sometimes deployment assistance, dedicated use case representatives, and user training
modules that can be a great help.
The BI and analytics marketplace is mature and crowded with excellent software tools for a variety of use
cases, verticals, deployment methods, and budgets. There are very large providers we refer to as ‘mega-
vendors’, like Microsoft, Tableau Software and Qlik. There are also lesser-known innovators with interesting
products that play in niche areas, such as Looker, Pyramid Analytics and Yellowfin BI.
Cue the process of seeking out, evaluating, choosing, purchasing, and deploying a BI and data analytics
solution. Solutions come in a variety of flavors—ranging from traditional enterprise reporting to data discovery
and augmented analytic options. Each features a particular set of capabilities, strengths, and drawbacks.
Choosing the right vendor and solution is a complicated process—one that requires in-depth research and
often comes down to more than just the solution and its technical capabilities.
Solutions Review has developed this buyer’s guide to assist buyers in search of the best possible tool to fit the
needs of their organization. This resource features 10 important questions to ask during the buying process,
and full, one-page vendor profiles that provide a solution overview, three key features, contact information,
and our own ‘Bottom Line’ analysis. Companion research, including our popular vendor comparison matrix,
can be found at solutionsreview.com.
Timothy King, Senior Editor Map Key
Solutions Review
B This solution offers Embedded BI
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 2
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
5 Questions You Should Ask When
Evaluating A Business Intelligence Solution
What is my budget?
Your organization’s budget is going to play a major role in deciding the type of analytic tool you wind up selecting. Large solution
providers with expansive product portfolios for enterprise use cases are unlikely to be budget-friendly. However, startups and
emerging vendors trying to make a splash may offer more competitive pricing, especially in this marketplace where there are
plenty of excellent solutions. Matching your budget with a provider’s technical capabilities can sometimes reveal a bargain.
What business problem(s) am I trying to solve?
Purchasing a BI or analytics tool can be an overwhelming task. However, it is easier to narrow down the types of vendors and tools
under consideration when you outline specific business problems you are trying to solve. If you’re in a vertical-specific industry
that tracks against a distinct set of KPIs, that makes your search even easier. It’s best to align prospective solution providers with
overarching business goals.
Who are my BI users?
Are your users mainly going to be technical people like business analysts or data scientists, or line-of-business users? ‘Self-service’
has been one of the most popular buzzwords in the market for a several years now. Organizations are increasingly seeking software
tools that provide users of various skill levels to analyze data. Is that a relevant consideration for your situation?
What are my must-have capabilities?
Modern BI and analytic platforms offer a dizzying selection of features. Capabilities that were once considered advanced in nature
are now mainstream. Likewise, predictive analytics and visual data discovery are the industry-norm. This makes it difficult to pick
just one tool from the pack. Buyers are advised to jot down a shortlist of must-have features and then compare that against the
various offerings to see which best matches up to your specific use case.
What are my expectations?
It’s easy to get swept up in the hype that a flashy new BI platform will solve all of your company’s pain points overnight, but it’s best
to temper expectations. Vendor marketing campaigns and industry pundits sometimes inflate the true value that BI tools can bring
in the early stages. With nearly 3 in 4 BI initiatives set to fail within the first year, keeping a realistic outlook remains a key practice.
Its fine to get excited about solving critical problems, but the road to insight generation is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 3
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
5 Questions You Should Ask Your
Potential Business Intelligence Solution
Provider
Can your BI tool scale with my business?
Your current data sources, KPIs, business questions, and overall situation may very well change. It would be foolhardy to select a BI
platform based only on how it can serve you at the current time. Very little remains static, so what may seem like the best possible
solution now could be virtually useless in two, three or five years down the road. Weigh the vendor’s current capabilities with its
ability to scale as your organization grows.
Can you provide customer recommendations?
You’ll want to ask prospective vendors to provide references that can show how their software helped other customers achieve
positive ROI. In-vertical references are best, so we recommend seeking first-hand accounts from similar size organizations that do
business in related industries and analyze similar data sources. It’s not about securing the best overall tool; it’s about selecting the
best solution for your specific set of circumstances.
Is there a support package included? What does it include?
The rise in self-service has been a difference maker for many organizations. However, this requires solution providers to offer
support services to keep non-technical users on their feet. You’ll want to find out what types of services are offered with the
purchase of a license. Popular support add-ons range from deployment assistance and dedicated customer service representatives
to user training, certification, and even community forums.
What is the total cost of ownership (TCO)?
There are usually outside costs associated with the purchase of a new BI platform, but does that come with subscription pricing,
third-party expenses, or hidden operation fees? There can be many surprises hidden below the surface. Stakeholders will want
to find out whether there are expenditures for user training, upgrading, troubleshooting or consulting as a result of re-engineering
processes that are being automated.
How long does deployment take?
Once you decide on a BI and analytics product, it takes time to get up-and-running. Have a discussion with the vendor representative
about what that looks like, and how it will impact existing business systems and protocols in the interim. Does the solution provider
offer on-site or remote help with deployment? These are vital questions that have a direct impact on the cost of the tool and the
impact on ROI.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 4
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Solution Provider Profiles
7 ....................................................................................... Altair
8 ....................................................................................... Alteryx
9 ....................................................................................... AnswerRocket
10 ..................................................................................... BOARD
11 ..................................................................................... Chartio
12 ..................................................................................... Domo
13 ..................................................................................... Hitachi Vantara
14 ..................................................................................... IBI
15 ..................................................................................... IBM
16 ..................................................................................... Infor Birst
17 ..................................................................................... Looker
18 ..................................................................................... Microsoft
19 ..................................................................................... MicroStrategy
20 ..................................................................................... Oracle
21 ..................................................................................... Pyramid Analytics
22 ..................................................................................... Qlik
23 ..................................................................................... Salesforce
24 ..................................................................................... SAP
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 5
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Solution Provider Profiles
25 ..................................................................................... SAS
26 ..................................................................................... Sigma Computing
27 ..................................................................................... Sisense
28 ..................................................................................... Tableau
29 ..................................................................................... TARGIT
30 ..................................................................................... Tellius
31 ..................................................................................... ThoughtSpot
32 ..................................................................................... TIBCO
33 ..................................................................................... Yellowfin
34 ..................................................................................... Zoho
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 6
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Altair
Altair offers an open, scalable, unified, and extensible data analytics platform with www.altair.com
integrated data transformation and predictive analytics tools. Desktop-based
data preparation is available via Altair Monarch, while Knowledge Hub features
team-driven data prep and a centralized data marketplace to speed collaboration
and governance. Machine learning and predictive analytics are made available
inside Knowledge Studio. Altair Panopticon houses the company’s streaming
processing and real-time visualization capabilities.
Key Features
Data Preparation
Altair allows users to prepare data via desktop, server and web browser. Monarch lets you connect to data sources
and transform it while Monarch Server features self-service data prep across the enterprise. Altair Knowledge
Hub adds machine learning and collaboration to the mix for browser and cloud-based data preparation.
Machine Learning
Altair’s machine learning and predictive analytics visualizes data and generates explainable results without
requiring code. Knowledge Studio includes pre-build data preparation and data science functions and integrates
with common programming languages as well.
Data Visualization
Altair’s real-time data visualization enables users to program sophisticated business logic and data functions
using a completely visual user interface. The platform is designed with business users in mind, and includes a
stream processing engine called Panopticon Streams.
Bottom Line
Altair updated its entire line of data analytics software in June 2020, calling it “the most significant software update
release in company history.” As part of the release collection, the vendor added automated machine learning
(AutoML) to its Knowledge Studio predictive analytics solution. This update helps to optimize the modeling
process while also giving users insights and understanding into how results are achieved. The company’s April
2020 Panopticon release saw the company add speed and flexibility enhancements. Altair serves customers in a
number of verticals and is best used by technical data analysts and scientists.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 7
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Alteryx
Alteryx is a self-service data analytics software company that specializes in 3345 Michelson Dr
data preparation and data blending. Alteryx Analytics allows users to organize,
Irvine, CA
clean, and analyze data in a repeatable workflow. Business analysts find this tool
particularly useful for connecting to and cleansing data from data warehouses, United States
cloud applications, spreadsheets and other sources. The platform features tools +1 (888) 836 4274
to run a variety of analytic jobs (predictive, statistical, spatial) inside a single www.alteryx.com
interface. Alteryx went public in 2017.
Key Features
Data Preparation and Blending
Alteryx Designer provides access to all relevant data by connecting to and cleansing data from data warehouses,
cloud applications, spreadsheets and more. Users can create datasets for analysis or visualization using data
quality, integration, and transformation tools.
Scalable Sharing and Collaboration
Alteryx Server provides a flexible server architecture that can be deployed on-prem or in the cloud. It allows
users to schedule and automate workflow execution for data delivery, and offload data preparation, blending,
and analytics into a production-ready environment. Analysts can store, share and publish analytic workflows
and applications cross-organization while extending Alteryx processes with APIs and macros into internal apps.
Data Discovery
Alteryx Connect contains a variety of data discovery tools. It allows users to work with metadata to better
understand where data comes from and how it is being used. Included search capabilities provide analysts
with the ability to find and reuse information contained in analytic apps, workflows, macros, visualizations,
dashboards, and data science models.
Bottom Line
Alteryx offers an expansive platform with many noteworthy analytic features, and its foray into data science tools
figures to be a boon to citizen data scientists. In addition, the company acquired Menlo Park-based ClearStory
Data in April 2019. Most known for its smart data discovery and automated data preparation features, the merger
will enable Alteryx to create a natural extension of its own technology that will enable it to grow its data science
capabilities. Alteryx also launched a new version of its Analytic Process Automation platform in May.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 8
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
AnswerRocket
AnswerRocket offers a search-powered data analytics platform designed for 5775 Glenridge Dr
business users. The product enables you to ask business questions in natural
Atlanta, GA
language, and no technical skills are needed to run reports or generate analysis.
AnswerRocket features a combination of AI and machine learning, as well as United States
advanced analytic functionality. The platform can also automate manual tasks +1 (678) 608-0053
and answer ad hoc questions quickly. AnswerRocket is mobile-friendly and www.answerrocket.com
includes native voice recognition. The company was founded in 2013 and is
based in Atlanta, Georgia.
Key Features
Mobile-Responsive and Cloud-Based
AnswerRocket is a cloud-based platform that works across any operating system and device type on-demand.
The companion mobile application is available in the Apple App Store. Voice recognition enables you to ask
questions in natural language, and the built-in notification system alerts users when there are key updates or
changes to relevant data and performance in real-time.
IQ Boosters
AnswerRocket’s augmented analytics can answer the same simple questions as traditional business intelligence
tools plus more complex “why” and “how” queries. IQ Boosters explore the relationships between your data and
can evaluate hundreds of thousands of metric combinations within seconds to pinpoint business-critical insight.
Users receive a full diagnosis of variables impacting each answer.
Flexible Dashboards
Dashboards are customizable and self-service, and asking questions automatically builds a dashboard so users
can see an overview of answers, follow-ups, and drill-downs. Users can convert dashboards into presentations
without leaving the platform, as well as publish and share progress and projects across teams via the collaboration
suite.
Bottom Line
AnswerRocket features a breadth of augmented data discovery capabilities and was created for non-technical
users. IQ Boosters sift through thousands of variables to pinpoint the most important data points to explore.
Analytics can be accessed via desktop or mobile, and users can ask questions by typing or speaking. Dashboard
building can be automated on the fly from natural language questions as well. AnswerRocket can be run on-prem
or in the cloud via the major public cloud providers. The product is best suited for organizations in consumer
goods, e-commerce, and the financial services.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 9BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Board
BOARD combines business intelligence, performance management, and Piazza Bernasconi 5
predictive analytics into one platform. As a result, any change to data, data
6830 Chiasso
models, security profiles or business rules is immediately propagated to every
application. The solution provides all the tools required to create and update Switzerland
databases, data presentations, analyses, and process models. The company +41 91 697 54 10
also offers BOARD Cloud, a SaaS version of the platform, backed by Microsoft www.board.com
Azure.
Key Features
Data Discovery
Interactive search-based data discovery works across screens, data, metadata, and applications. BOARD allows
any search result to be used immediately as a driver for further analyses or as an element for creating new
reports using the tool’s drag-and-drop self-service analysis UI.
Simulation
Users can translate business processes into sophisticated analytical models that enable users to assess the
impact of decisions on their organization’s performance. BOARD offers the capability to manage real-time
changes to models, data allocation across dimension and hierarchies, and data calculation and aggregation.
The Reverse Algorithm extends these features also to calculated fields.
Scorecarding
BOARD offers all the functionalities needed to translate company strategy into scorecards and strategy maps
so organizations can communicate and roll out key objectives. The unified BI and Performance Management
environment allows users to analyze any trend highlighted by the scorecard and explore events affecting KPIs
the lowest level of detail.
Bottom Line
BOARD is offered on-prem or in the cloud, and the platform unifies any data source into a single logical view.
BOARD is based on a proprietary data management technology called HBMP that was designed to enhance the
performance of in-memory computing. The company’s flagship solution offers two authentication layers and
advanced security management so users can delegate security administration to other key users. BOARD was
founded in 1994 and has customers in a wide array of verticals. The provider was acquired by US-based private
equity investor Nordic Capital in early 2019.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 10BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Chartio
Chartio is a cloud-based data discovery platform that lets you create intuitive 222 Kearny St
charts and interactive dashboards. The product features a proprietary, visual
San Francisco, CA
version of SQL that enables any user to explore, transform and visualize data
via a flexible drag-and-drop interface. There is no need to build data models in United States
advance. Chartio includes a set of pre-built connections to data sources like hello@chartio.com
Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery and Snowflake, while also enabling direct www.chartio.com
access to CSVs and Google Sheets. There are also cloud application integrations
via Automated Cloud Data Stack Partners. Chartio was founded in 2010 and is
based in San Francisco.
B
Key Features
Visual SQL
Chartio’s unique interface to SQL enables a variety of user types to analyze data through one interface. The
interface provides flexibility for users to define data requests with sequential steps. An Interactive Mode lets
you drag-and-drop to create, edit, filter and share dashboards while the SQL Mode allows for direct database
communication through an SQL editor.
Security
Chartio is compliant with SOC2 Type II, an independent audit designed to ensure good policy and compliance in
five key areas of security. The vendor also uses a read-only connection to ensure that data remains unmodified
by your Chartio users. Chartio offers SSH tunnelled connections for databases behind firewalls as well.
Data Advisors
Data Advisors assist customers in implementing best practices for each data analytics and BI use case. Premium
customers gain an assigned specialist to advise and assist with account and support questions, as well as data-
related issues users may be having.
Bottom Line
Chartio is best suited for organizations with a wide range of technical and business users, as the platform features
two distinct modes for doing analysis. The platform includes data integration, exploration and transformation
capabilities as well. Users can easily share dashboards via scheduled emails or reports without having to install
software. Chartio also allows you to schedule alerts to track important metrics or view historical data with a
unique Snapshot feature. Reference customers enjoy the solution’s ease of deployment, use, and visualization
functionality.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 11BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Domo
Domo offers a cloud-based analytics and business intelligence platform for 772 E. Utah Valley Dr
decentralized use cases. The provider added new R and Python integration
American Fork, UT
capabilities, as well as support for embedded BI in recent months. Domo
Everywhere enables users to embed interactive Domo cards in portals, on United States
web properties and inside applications. The company’s platform is highly +1 (800) 899-1000
customizable, and the Analyzer feature can be tailored to filter out unnecessary www.domo.com
data. Domo went public in June 2018.
Key Features
Domo Publish
Domo Publish allows organizations to share data and insights with customers, partners and vendors, enabling
customers to build their own content based on shared data. The tool also provides users the ability to replicate
and publish Domo pages and cards securely leveraging personalized data permissions (PDP).
Domo Embed
Domo Embed enables viewers to explore data by drilling, filtering or choosing a different chart type. Users can
limit access to the intended audience with SSO authentication and user-level card sharing controls, as well as
personalize the data shown to individual users who are viewing the same card. Domo card embedding uses
iframes or JavaScript embed codes to ensure widespread compatibility.
ETL Magic
Domo Integration Cloud enables users to prepare data with visual integration flows and access and control
it through the tool’s governance framework. Integration Cloud also includes a new data pipeline tool called
Integration Studio, as well as its Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) Driver. The product is rounded out by an
API manager and third-party developer kit so users can build custom data connectors.
Bottom Line
Domo is a cloud-based executive management platform that enables organizations to see key data in real-time
from across the enterprise in one place and on any device. The company offers prepackaged dashboard content
and functionality for filtering and sorting data visually in Domo Analyzer. Within the last calendar year, Domo has
released an integrated suite of data science capabilities, a new Integration Cloud iPaas solution, and a certificate
program designed to help data and analytics leaders demonstrate proficiency with the platform. The vendor also
launched a new series of augmented analytic functionality in March.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 12BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Hitachi Vantara
Hitachi Vantara’s Pentaho Business Analytics platform allows organizations 2845 Lafayette St
to access and blend all types and sizes of data. The product offers a range of
Santa Clara, CA
capabilities for big data integration and data preparation. The Pentaho platform
is purpose-built for embedding into and integrating with applications, portals, United States
and processes. Organizations can embed a range of analytics, including +1 (866) 660-7555
visualizations, reports, ad hoc analysis, and tailored dashboards. It also extends www.hitachivantara.com
to third-party charts, graphs and visualizations via an open API for a wider
selection of embeddable analytics. Pentaho is offered in on-prem and cloud
versions.
B
Key Features
Data Integration
Data integration allows users to blend, orchestrate and analyze data from virtually any source. Pentaho can be
deployed on a variety of public or private cloud providers, including Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.
Users can also integrate and analyze Amazon Redshift, Hadoop and other big data sources in the cloud.
Graphical Dashboards
Graphical dashboards are web-based and feature a drag-and-drop design that includes rich navigation, drilling
and a library of filter controls. Users can custom-build dashboards that are uniquely tailored to their organization,
and portal and mash-up integration connects business analytics with other applications.
Security
Administrative capabilities include analytics security, content permissions, versioning, locking and expiration for
streamlined management. Backup, recovery and business continuity are also key tenets of the Pentaho Business
Analytics product.
Bottom Line
Pentaho was acquired by Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) in 2015. Post-merger, Pentaho had been offered as a
standalone software platform until recently when Hitachi combined the Pentaho, HDS and Hitachi Insight Groups
into a new unit called Hitachi Vantara. The Pentaho data platform is unique because it encompasses data
integration and BI and analytic capabilities. Hitachi announced new machine learning orchestration features in
March 2019, and a model management plug-in is available via the Pentaho Marketplace. For companies that want
to implement only a single product such as data prep, storage, or security, this product is an excellent choice.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 13BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
IBI
Formerly known as Information Builders, ibi is a New York-based solution Two Penn Plz
provider that offers a wide range of BI and data management software tools.
New York, NY
The company’s WebFOCUS platform features self-service analytics and data
discovery, a visual discovery insight mode, predictive capabilities, and more. United States
WebFOCUS can deploy secure applications to millions of users, and governance +1 (212) 736-4433
functionality enables metadata-driven delivery across an organization. The www.ibi.com
platform also extends beyond dashboards for executives and analysts by
operationalizing data and analytics for line-of-business users.
Key Features
Automated Insights
Insights can take the form of correlations for detecting where multiple measures show a similar trend, outliers
that identify unusual patterns in data, and time-based use cases for analyzing business data over time. Insights
are all available through the platform’s Designer by clicking the new “Insights” button. Users can also add Insights
to existing portals and dashboards to share them with others.
InfoApps
InfoApps are business-driven analytical apps for non-technical users. They typically focus on a specific business
context, and are often embedded within another application’s screen or portal. This feature allows user access
to actionable information without having to understand the underlying data and analytics.
Data Discovery
The visual data discovery tool allows non-technical business users to conduct data preparation, visually analyze
complex data, generate sophisticated data visualizations, and share content with others. “Insight” mode enables
instant visual discovery from a standard chart.
Bottom Line
ibi offers a complete portfolio of big data tools, from integration all the way to advanced analytics and data
management. The vendor recently re-branded and unveiled a major update to its flagship BI and analytics platform
that brings Automated Insights and new ways to connect to data sourced and third-party data visualization
tools. There are also new and enhanced customer service and support packages. ibi offers a cloud-optimized
version of WebFOCUS as well, which includes different deployment, data connectivity, data preparation, and data
visualization options.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 14BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
IBM
IBM offers an expansive range of BI and analytic capabilities under two distinct 1 New Orchard Rd
product lines. The Cognos Analytics platform is an integrated self-service
Armonk, NY
solution that allows users to access data to create dashboards and reports.
IBM Watson Analytics offers a machine learning-enabled user experience that United States
includes automated pattern detection, support for natural language query and +1 (800) 426-4968
generation, and embedded advanced analytics capabilities. Cognos is IBM’s www.ibm.com
‘flagship’ BI and analytics tool, where Watson is the vendor’s entry into the
emerging AI-powered tools arena.
Key Features
Reporting and Visualization
IBM’s intuitive interface enables any user to author content on the fly, and dashboards can be created using drag-
and-drop on desktop or mobile. The visual data explorer automatically recommends the best visualizations for
particular data templates. Users can take advantage of on-demand menus for access to full capabilities within
one interface in order to create ad hoc reports without IT oversight.
Data Modeling
Users can do data modeling via a completely web-based experience that features direct reporting from data
sources and automatic data model generation based on keywords.
Data Governance
Data is protected with layers of permissions, authentication, and history. Data protection controls are including
whether a user is creating one report for many or many are creating one report. Additional capabilities include
scheduling and alerts.
Bottom Line
IBM has made real strides to modernize its analytic offerings, and with great success. Cognos remains one of the
most widely adopted BI platforms in the enterprise, and Watson Analytics is on the cutting edge of AI-influenced
tools. IBM’s BI software can be deployed both on-prem or as a hosted solution via the IBM Cloud. The company’s
complete analytics portfolio also includes its SPSS Predictive Analytics, IBM Data Science Experience, and IBM
Planning Analytics tools.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 15BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Infor Birst
Birst offers a cloud-based analytics solution that connects an organization using 153 Kearny St
a network of interwoven virtualized BI instances. The provider’s flagship product
San Francisco, CA
is its Networked BI platform. The tool features an adaptive user experience,
multi-tenant cloud architecture, user data tier, and a completely virtualized data United States
ecosystem. These capabilities enable use of BI across multiple regions, product +1 (866) 940-1496
lines, departments, and customers. Birst was acquired by Infor April 2017. www.birst.com
Key Features
Adaptive User Experience:
The platform combines dashboards and data discovery into an integrated HTML5 interface. The interface is the
same weather it is viewed on the desktop or mobile version. Birst’s 2-tier analytics allow extension to other tools
like Excel, R, and Tableau.
User Data Tier
Birst automates data unification and refining from any enterprise source. The Infinite Connectivity Framework
allows scalable access to the chosen source. It uses ‘smart’ technologies to create a Unified Business Model (or
business-ready Data Tier) that all users can utilize.
Multi-Tenant Cloud Architecture
Birst can be deployed in the public cloud, AWS or the private cloud (as a virtual appliance) with the same code base,
upgrade path, and support level. It broadens query performance through intelligent caching, pre-aggregation, and
optimized SQL generation.
Bottom Line
Birst is a data warehouse, reporting and visualization platform that operates independent of its parent company
Infor. Customers most commonly use the product for BI provisioning, and because it is cloud-based, decentralized
analytics as well. Reference customers speak highly of Birst’s service and support offerings, though some users
note that interface integration needs some work. Birst introduces a new set of Smart Analytics solutions (powered
by Infor’s Coleman AI) in January 2019. In May 2019, the company unveiled Birst 7 featuring a new user interface,
enhanced data modeling features, and a new administration module with auditing capabilities.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 16BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Looker
Looker offers a BI and data analytics platform that is built on LookML, the 101 Church St
company’s proprietary modeling language. The company’s embedded analytics
Santa Cruz, CA
functionality in Powered by Looker utilizes modern database technologies and
an agile modeling layer that allow users to define data and control who can United States
access it. Analytics can be deployed as an embedded iFrame or using Javascript. +1 (888) 960-2331
Organizations can use Looker’s full RESTful API or the schedule feature to deliver www.looker.com
reports by email or webhook. Looker is based in San Francisco and was founded
in 2011.
B
Key Features
Agile Modeling Layer
The agile modeling layer allows users to define data and control who can access it. This assures that data means
the same thing to everyone regardless of how it is accessed. Complex join logic that is specified in SQL can also
be done in LookML, ensuring that all users are referencing the same centralized dimensions and metrics.
Data Modeling
LookML lets users define specific data models and reference it in other locations. Any complex join logic that
can be specified in SQL can be done in LookML once and be used by any user. The language also allows users
to define their organization’s business logic so it can be used by the entire company.
Looker Blocks
Looker Blocks are pre-built pieces of code that organizations can leverage to accelerate analytics projects. Users
can reuse the work others have already done instead of starting from scratch then customize the blocks to
exact specifications. Some examples include optimize SQL patterns, fully built-out data models, and weather
and demographic data.
Bottom Line
Looker can be embedded in websites, portals and applications. The product’s application for web analytics
touts filtering and drilling capabilities, enabling users to dig into row-level details at will. New sales analytics and
developer tools added in April 2019 expand Looker’s suite of purpose-built applications which already includes
Looker for Digital Marketing and Looker for Web Analytics applications. Looker 7 was released in early November.
The launch was highlighted by the addition of customizable BI experiences to drive collaboration, enterprise
security enhancements, and hosting and management capabilities. Looker was acquired by Google in June.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 17BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Microsoft
Microsoft is one of a handful of major players in enterprise BI and analytics. One Microsoft Way
The company’s flagship platform, Power BI, is cloud-based and delivered on the
Redmond, WA
Azure Cloud. On-prem capabilities also exist for individual users or when power
users are authoring complex data mashups using in-house data sources. Power United States
BI is unique because it enables users to do data preparation, data discovery, +1 (425) 882-8080
and dashboards with the same design tool. The platform integrates with Excel www.azure.microsoft.com
and Office 365, and has a very active user community that extends the tool’s
capabilities.
Key Features
Embedded Analytics
Power BI offers embedded analytics in two different iterations, first for ISVs and developers, and another for
enterprises. The platform’s Azure-based API set enables organizations to embed organizations even when
they’ve already designed an app. No matter where the data lies, Power BI allows users to embed visuals into
apps, portals, SharePoint, and Microsoft Teams.
Self-Service BI and Enterprise Reporting
Power BI Server provides organizations access to SQL Server Reporting Services in a single, on-prem solution.
Users can author reports with Power BI Desktop, publish them with Power BI Report Server, and share reports
for users to consume on the web and across a range of devices.
Community Support
Microsoft has an expansive web of partners, resellers, and individual users. The company’s products, including
the Power BI Suite, are extended as a result of this community framework. Prominent community resources
include prebuilt apps, video tutorials, visualizations, and individual user forums.
Bottom Line
Microsoft offers perhaps the most robust BI and analytic product portfolio of any provider included in this buyer’s
guide. The company’s Power BI platform is offered in ‘desktop’ and ‘premium’ versions, and connects to Excel
spreadsheets, on-prem data sources, big data, streaming data, and cloud services. Microsoft enables organizations
ease of use when running complex data analysis, and cost is a major benefit of the platform. However, its cloud-
only approach and inability to handle very large data volumes is a caution buyers should be aware of.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 18BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
MicroStrategy
MicroStrategy provides out-of-the-box gateways and native drivers that connect 1850 Towers Crescent Plz
to any enterprise resource, including databases, mobile device management
Tysons Corner, VA
(MDM) systems, enterprise directories, cloud applications and physical access
control systems. Its embedded analytics tool allows MicroStrategy to be United States
embedded in other web pages and applications such as portals, CRM tools, +1 (703) 848-8600
chatbots and even voice assistants like Alexa. The product enables users to www.microstrategy.com
build custom visualizations, connectors and applications, and proprietary APIs
allow organizations to create custom product offerings and branded mobile
applications.
B
Key Features
Advanced Analytics
MicroStrategy provides an extensive library of native analytical functions and scoring algorithms, along with
an SDK to integrate with 3rd-party and open source statistical and data mining products. Users can also utilize
historical data, create real-time forecasts, and take advantage of more than 300 OLAP, mathematical, financial,
and data mining functions.
Data Connectivity
The platform can connect to any enterprise resource, including more than 100 enterprise database and other
information assets. MicroStrategy enables users to analyze every kind of data.
Data Discovery
Organizations can access, explore, and analyze data with self-service analytics. The platform employs a variety of
native connectors that allow users to connect to any type of data from spreadsheets to Salesforce and Hadoop.
In addition, data from multiple sources can be blended, and users can define relationships across tables or
sources with drag-and-drop controls.
Bottom Line
MicroStrategy merges self-service data preparation and visual data discovery in an enterprise BI and analytics
platform. MicroStrategy 2019 touts a ‘HyperIntelligence’ module that provides new ways for users to access data.
The product also enables users to inject information directly into a web-based workflow via a new HyperCard
feature. MicroStrategy 2019 Update 2 (July 2019) features add-ons designed to help augment user productivity
on other popular BI tools like Tableau, Microsoft Power BI and Qlik.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 19BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Oracle
Oracle offers a broad range of BI and analytics tools that can be deployed on- 500 Oracle Pkwy
prem or in the Oracle Cloud. The company provides traditional BI capabilities
Redwood Shores, CA
inside its Business Intelligence 12c solution. Oracle Data Visualization provides
more advanced features, and allows users to automatically visualize data as United States
drag-and-drop attributes, charts, and graphs. The tool also enables users to save +1 (650) 506-7000
snapshots of an analytical moment-in-time via story points. Oracle has greatly www.oracle.com
expanded their feature capabilities in recent months to include data discovery
and data science tools as well.
Key Features
Advanced Analytics
Oracle extends its database into an advanced analytics platform through two components: Oracle R Enterprise
and Oracle Data Mining. These capabilities allow users to do real-time analytics that deliver insight into key areas
such as churn prediction, product recommendations, and fraud alerting.
Data Visualization
Oracle Data Visualization provides a simple point-and-click data upload function that allows users to see data
visualized automatically. As a result, visuals are presented contextually. Users can add new data and see
intelligent updates in real-time, and highlighting one visual automatically enables viewing related information.
Oracle Big Data Discovery
Big Data Discovery allows organizations to find, explore, transform, and analyze big data. Users can browse an
interactive big data catalog and use familiar keyword search and guided navigation. The tool provides access to
personal and shared big data projects, and provisioning of personal data via self-service.
Bottom Line
Oracle offers traditional reporting and dashboards via the Business Intelligence 12c tool. Modern product
capabilities are included in Oracle Data Visualization, which provides advanced data visualization, data preparation,
self-service, and advanced analytics. The company’s Big Data Discovery feature set is a Hadoop-based data
science platform that supports both on-prem and web-based authoring. Oracle’s software is largely available in
both desktop and cloud versions. However, organizations that are not already “Oracle shops” may have trouble
with deployment.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 20BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Pyramid Analytics
Pyramid Analytics offers data and analytics tool through its flagship platform, Jollenmanhof 22
Pyramid v2020. The solution touts a server-based, multi-user analytics OS
1019GW Amsterdam
environment that provides self-service capabilities. Pyramid v2020 features a
platform-agnostic architecture that allows users to manage data across any Netherlands
environment, regardless of technology. The tool enables those users to prepare, +1 (203) 202-3500
model, visualize, analyze, publish, and present data from web browsers and www.pyramidanalytics.com
mobile devices. The company’s product portfolio remains highly integrated with
Microsoft’s BI tools, offering an enterprise front-end to Microsoft SQL Server
Analyses Services (SSAS). However, Pyramid has attempted to differentiate
itself with its new product portfolio.
Key Features
Analytics OS
Pyramid v2020 is an adaptive platform that provides different capabilities and experiences based on user needs
and skills. It manages content as a shared resource, and is designed to support self-service analytics. The
platform is agnostic and can be deployed in any environment on any device. It features six analytics modules:
model, formulate, discover, illustrate, present, and publish.
Hybrid Deployment
The platform can be deployed in any environment. It features an open, flexible, multi-tiered architecture that can
be scaled out and up by tier. Analytics OS can run on any Java-based platform, and offers a scalable repository
that uses optimized container images that can be deployed in any ANSI SQL-compliant setting.
Data Modeling
Pyramid v2020 features modeling on any ANSI-SQL-compliant source, big data engine, Microsoft engine, or
Pyramid’s internal in-memory engine. In-place modeling allows users to model data where it lives via shared
queries to SQL, Apache/Hadoop engines, ANSI SQL, or to centralized locations like Pyramid’s in-memory (IMDB)
or SQL Analysis Services.
Bottom Line
Pyramid v2020 includes SAP BW Integration, which enables users to directly connect to SAP BW and natively
interact with cubes and queries without ingesting data. Users can mash their SAP data with other sources as well.
An ETL 2.0 feature upgrades the Pyramid Analytics data modeling and wrangling capabilities. The new Augmented
Machine Learning Server in v2020 lets administrators create standard environments for specific machine learning
projects. Users can then standardize distinct Python environments to ensure machine learning execution. Looker’s
simplified user experience and focus on ease of use has been well received by its customer base.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 21BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Qlik
Qlik offers a broad spectrum of BI and analytics tools, which is headlined by the 150 N. Radnor Chester Rd
company’s flagship offering, Qlik Sense. The solution enables organizations to
Radnor, PA
combine all their data sources into a single view. The Qlik Analytics Platform
allows users to develop, extend and embed visual analytics in existing United States
applications and portals. Embedded functionality is done within a common +1 (888) 828-9768
governance and security framework. Users can build and embed Qlik as simple www.qlik.com
mashups or integrate within applications, information services or IoT platforms.
Qlik has added a slew of augmented analytics features in the last calendar year.
B
Key Features
Associative Engine
The in-memory engine allows users to combine an organization’s entire library of data. Users can index every
possible relationship with data to explore relationships in any direction. There are no pre-aggregated data and
predefined queries, and users can create analytics without having to build new queries.
Data Discovery
QlikView allows organizations to create business-driven data discoveries with guided analysis paths that are
customizable and tightly governed. It features top-down control of analytics apps, permissions, and data
management. In addition, granular control of dashboards, layouts, and design allows for centralization of
applications. QlikView also offers data integration, advanced reporting and global search.
Security
Qlik offers a single governance framework to allow for common security, manageability and re-usability. The
platform can be deployed on one server and scale to address processing requirements whether on-prem or
cloud. Included high performance in-memory analytics handle data while aligning to a specific security model.
Bottom Line
New capabilities included in Qlik Sense Enterprise are aimed at advancing the company’s foray into 3rd-generation
BI, which include data democratization, augmented analytics, and embedded analytics. In addition to deploying
Qlik Sense on Qlik Cloud Services, customers can use the platform on Kubernetes. Every Qlik deployment option
now works as part of Qlik’s multi-cloud deployment framework that can be managed as one instance. Core
capabilities of Qlik Sense Cloud Business includes self-service app creation, visual data preparation, smart search,
automated AI-generated insights, and direct connectivity to more than 40 data sources.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 22BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
Salesforce
The Salesforce Einstein Analytics platform is available in a number of flavors Landmark at One Market
based on role, industry and included features. The product’s automated data
San Francisco, CA
discovery capabilities enable users to answer questions based on transparent
and understandable AI models. Users can also tailor analytics to their use case United States
and enhance insights with precise recommendations and specific guidance. +1 (844) 848-1057
Einstein lets you create advanced experiences using customizable templates, www.salesforce.com
third-party apps, or custom-build dashboards as well.
Key Features
Data Management
Einstein includes built-in data management that enables users to connect and clean all kinds of data. Users can
sync Salesforce and non-Salesforce data via pre-packaged connectors for enterprise applications, database
services, data warehouse, and file-based data source and website analytics. There’s also self-contained ETL,
visual data preparation, and a scalable data mart.
No-Code AI
Einstein’s AI provides predictions and real-time recommendations, and requires no technical coding experience.
The AI produces narrative explanations and natural language generation, as well as model transparency and
predictive and prescriptive analytics. The tool also includes “one-click” storytelling and automated discovery.
Discovery and Analytics Studio
Users can build AI-powered analytics apps from scratch or via a package of pre-built templates. Einstein Analytics
Fast Start templates enable you to create an app to get best-practice datasets, dashboards, and KPIs that matter
most. Creation is as simple as answering questions in the configuration wizard that generates a curated analytic
experience.
Bottom Line
Salesforce offers a growing number of modern BI and analytics capabilities, as well as augmented data discovery
and preparation. The platform can host both Salesforce and non-Salesforce data, though Einstein remains
natively integrated with the Salesforce business application ecosystem. Salesforce touts perhaps the largest
partner ecosystem of any provider listed in this buyer’s guide that makes use of the vendor’s embedded content
features. Salesforce acquired in Tableau Software in June of 2019, a move that will enable it to merge the two
offerings together to offer customers a more full-featured BI portfolio in the near future.
© 2020 | Solutions Review | 500 West Cummings Park | Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 | USA 23BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE BUYER’S GUIDE
SAP
SAP offers a broad range of BI and analytics tools in both enterprise and Dietmar-Hopp-Allee 16
business-user driven editions. The company’s flagship BI portfolio is delivered
69190 Walldorf
via on-prem (BusinessObjects Enterprise), and cloud (BusinessObjects Cloud)
deployments atop the SAP HANA Cloud. SAP also offers a suite of traditional BI Germany
capabilities for dashboards and reporting. The vendor’s data discovery tools are +49 (0) 6227 / 7-47474
housed in the BusinessObjects solution, while additional functionality, including www.sap.com
self-service visualization, are available through the SAP Lumira tool set. SAP is
popularly chosen as a company-wide BI standard, especially if an organization
also plans to use the company’s application offerings.
Key Features
Dashboards
BusinessObjects dashboards allow users to personalize drag-and-drop functionality and interactive gauges,
charts and widgets. In addition, dashboards provide IT and business users with direct connectivity to live data
sources. Dashboards can also be embedded so users can view them wherever necessary.
Self-Service Data Visualization
SAP Lumira allows organizations to create interactive maps, charts, and infographics. Users can import data
from Excel and many other sources, perform visual BI analysis using intuitive dashboards, and securely share
insights and data stories cross-enterprise.
Predictive Analytics
SAP offers predictive analytics in both on-prem and cloud versions. The capability allows organizations to
automate data preparation, predictive modeling, and deployment via in-database predictive scoring for a wide
variety of target systems. Users can also leverage advanced visualization capabilities and integrate with R.
Bottom Line
SAP’s BI and analytics tools are available through a number of deployment channels. As a result, the company’s
legacy BI functionality can be integrated into its newer offerings for modern use cases. SAP is available on-prem
and in the cloud via its own HANA cloud platform. Organizations typically deploy SAP via a ‘vendor stack’, which,
in this scenario where product offerings are so far advanced, is not a major issue. According to Gartner, product
quality is a problem given the company’s attempt at developing two parallel product lines (BusinessObjects
Enterprise, BusinessObjects Cloud). However, SAP remains a rock solid choice for enterprise organizations.
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