SAS Visual Analytics vs i2 Analyst's Notebook

SAS Analytics is a versatile business intelligence and analytics tool that empowers users to explore and understand data through interactive data visualizations. Many users who reviewed data analysis said that, coupled with the power of predictive analytics, the platform offers a plethora of graphics options — charts, graphs and dashboards — with deep-dive capabilities, such as filtering, to zero in on pertinent business data. Many users who reviewed functionality and data preparation said that, possibly because of its capable ETL engine and in-memory architecture, data processing speed is very high and reports load faster. A majority of users who reviewed data connectivity said that the tool is efficient in pulling data from multiple sources for data modeling and analysis. On the flip side, quite a few users who reviewed functionality said that the platform’s integration with Python and R is still in the development stage and this limits its functional scope. Some users who discussed user-friendliness said that the processes are not the most intuitive — errors and warnings in logs are misleading, and new users may find adoption difficult. Though the industry scope of user tutorials is limited, a majority of users said that the steep learning curve of the platform is sufficiently addressed by training. For many users, its cost-prohibitive licensing plans caused them to not consider it their first choice when it came to purchasing a BI solution. Overall, SAS Visual Analytics is a versatile tool with fast data processing capabilities and strong visualizations to generate reports for insightful data analysis.

User reviews suggest that i2 Analyst's Notebook is a powerful tool for analyzing complex data, but it's not without its flaws. Users praise its ability to visualize data and identify patterns, which is crucial for understanding complex investigations. For example, one user highlighted how the software helped them uncover connections between seemingly unrelated events, leading to a successful prosecution. However, some users complain about the software's steep learning curve and clunky interface, which can be frustrating for new users. One user likened the experience to trying to navigate a maze with a blindfold on. Despite these drawbacks, i2 Analyst's Notebook remains a popular choice for law enforcement and intelligence agencies due to its robust features and ability to handle large datasets. The software's strength lies in its ability to connect the dots, making it ideal for investigations involving complex networks of individuals and organizations. For example, it can be used to track the movement of money, identify potential threats, and analyze social media data. However, the software's complexity can be a barrier for users who are not familiar with data analysis techniques. It's not a tool for casual users; it requires a dedicated team of analysts with the skills and training to use it effectively. Overall, i2 Analyst's Notebook is a powerful tool for organizations that need to analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns. However, it's not for everyone. If you're looking for a user-friendly tool with a gentle learning curve, this might not be the right choice. But if you're serious about uncovering hidden connections and gaining actionable insights, i2 Analyst's Notebook is worth considering.