Business Intelligence Tableau vs. Excel: Why They’re Better Together By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments Last Reviewed: November 27, 2024 Can Tableau dethrone Excel? I think not. CEOs will tell you that dashboards in BI tools aren’t everything. They would rather have somebody explain what’s happening and take it from there. If your team already uses Excel and you wonder if Tableau would be overkill, this article is for you. In this Tableau vs. Excel comparison, we’ll examine the two tools and explore how they can serve you better together — there are no clear winners here. Ritinder KaurTableau vs. Excel: Why They’re Better Together10.23.2024read more
Business Intelligence Power BI Direct Lake: A Critical Look at Its Semantic Layer Potential By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments September 25, 2024 Direct Lake in Microsoft Fabric is a query technology that lets Power BI users create semantic data models from OneLake. It’s a step up from Direct Query and Import Mode and intends to remedy their limitations. This article takes a closer look at how it fares in supporting Power BI to be more agile and efficient, especially in light of the AtScale TPC-DS Benchmark Report. Ritinder KaurPower BI Direct Lake: A Critical Look at Its Semantic Layer Potential09.25.2024read more
Resources What Is An Invoice? 2024 Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Resources No comments Last Reviewed: November 18, 2024 Whether you’re a freelancer or business owner, receiving payment and tracking your income is easy with invoices. So, what is an invoice, and which one should you use? We have the answers, with the related U.S. tax laws and how invoicing software might be just the thing you need. Ritinder KaurWhat Is An Invoice? 2024 Comprehensive Guide08.29.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Best Data Visualization Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 10 comments Last Reviewed: November 1, 2024 Are you lost in the vast sea of data visualization tools, unsure which one will steer your organization toward success? Many software buyers like yourself face the daunting task of choosing the right BI software from a sea of options with similar features. We have the solution. Our article explores the top visual analytics tools, empowering you to compare what’s out there and make an informed decision. Ritinder KaurThe Best Data Visualization Tools Of 202408.29.2024read more
Big Data Analytics The Best Open Source Big Data Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Big Data Analytics 2 comments Last Reviewed: September 19, 2024 As a buyer, did open-source analytics software feature in your product shortlist on the first pass? Maybe not. Did you know that 96% of scanned codebases use open-source components, and 76% of code is open-source? Community-driven code programs are the backbone of software development, and you risk missing out on great functionality if you don’t consider them when buying data solutions. This article showcases our analysts’ top five picks for best open-source big data analytics tools, along with software selection tips. Ritinder KaurThe Best Open Source Big Data Tools Of 202408.28.2024read more
Business Intelligence What Is Ad Hoc Reporting? A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments August 28, 2024 Enterprise reporting is the pillar of business intelligence and analytics — where would we be without reports? Though Excel supports insights on the fly, modern enterprises want more robust and faster ad hoc reporting tools. In this article, we discuss their applications, benefits and features, with the challenges in implementing them. Ritinder KaurWhat Is Ad Hoc Reporting? A Comprehensive Guide08.28.2024read more
Business Intelligence Descriptive vs Predictive vs Prescriptive vs Diagnostic Analytics By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 1 comment August 28, 2024 In 2004, when Hurricane Frances hit Florida’s Atlantic coast, people were ready…with six packs of beer and, wait for it, pop-tarts! Days before the hurricane hit, Walmart had stocked up on the stuff in stores that were in the hurricane’s path, thanks to predictive and prescriptive analytics. Learning customer preferences with business analytics paid off for the retailer — they registered huge sales at the time. Ritinder KaurDescriptive vs Predictive vs Prescriptive vs Diagnostic Analytics08.28.2024read more
Business Intelligence Unlocking Data Insights: A Comprehensive Guide to Business Intelligence Integration By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments August 27, 2024 This article dives deep into the world of business intelligence integration. We’ll explore the basics, walk you through the integration process and unveil the benefits BI brings to your organization. Industry experts share their valuable insights, and there’s a curated list of BI tools. We’ll examine the key features to consider and explore the future trends shaping the BI landscape. Let’s dive in! Ritinder KaurUnlocking Data Insights: A Comprehensive Guide to Business Intelligence Integration08.27.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Best Cloud Analytics Platforms Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments Last Reviewed: November 1, 2024 Choosing the right cloud analytics platform can feel like trying to escape from quicksand — the more you struggle, the deeper you sink into confusion. It’s easy to feel lost among multiple features, benefits and technical jargon. This article can be the lifeline you need for selecting a suitable BI solution and includes a discussion of the top cloud platforms and handy tips. Ritinder KaurThe Best Cloud Analytics Platforms Of 202408.26.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Future of Business Intelligence (BI) in 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 15 comments August 26, 2024 According to an IDC prediction, by 2024, organizations with efficient BI tools and technologies will be at a significant advantage, with five times more reaction time to capitalize on new opportunities. Will you be one of them? The right BI software and data maturity can get you there. This article discusses the future of business intelligence, current trends and their likely trajectory in the coming year. Ritinder KaurThe Future of Business Intelligence (BI) in 202408.26.2024read more
Business Intelligence Tableau vs Domo: Which BI Tool is the Winner? By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments August 22, 2024 Tableau is a market leader in providing analytics and data visualization in one platform. Despite a large fan base that swears by Tableau, other BI tools are disrupting the market. Domo is one such embedded analytics and automated data discovery tool. In this article, we break down the Domo vs. Tableau comparison feature-by-feature, with Tableau taking the crown. Ritinder KaurTableau vs Domo: Which BI Tool is the Winner?08.22.2024read more
Business Intelligence Excel For Business Intelligence: A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments August 22, 2024 Excel organizes data for visual analysis and exploration using functions, formulas and arrays. You can build data models, charts and graphs from simple tables. Did you know Excel supports machine learning (ML) and natural language querying (NLQ)? The platform stays relevant by offering new features and interfacing with many BI (business intelligence) tools. But, is Excel for business intelligence enough or do you need to invest in a BI platform? Ritinder KaurExcel For Business Intelligence: A Comprehensive Guide08.22.2024read more
Resources How to Delete a Reddit Account: Ultimate Guide By Ritinder Kaur Resources 6 comments August 22, 2024 Reddit is one of the most popular online networking sites worldwide. It has a huge collection of forums and communities — called ‘subreddits’ — where people can share news and other content and comment on others’ posts. Though the platform has more than 430 million monthly active users as of February 2021, there are many users who want to delete their Reddit accounts. If you are one of them, read on. Ritinder KaurHow to Delete a Reddit Account: Ultimate Guide08.22.2024read more
Enterprise Performance Management What Is Enterprise Performance Management? A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Enterprise Performance Management 2 comments August 21, 2024 While enterprise resource planning involves preparing for and managing day-to-day operations, EPM incorporates management insight into ERP. Enterprise performance management is an umbrella term for budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, including monthly close and consolidation. This last term confuses people into thinking EPM is all about accounting and financial management. But, it’s much more. Ritinder KaurWhat Is Enterprise Performance Management? A Comprehensive Guide08.21.2024read more
Resources How to Install Copilot in Visual Studio By Ritinder Kaur Resources No comments Last Reviewed: November 19, 2024 Are you feeling bogged down by repetitive coding tasks? Do you want to explore new languages without diving into endless documentation? This guide will walk you through how to install GitHub Copilot in Visual Studio. Ritinder KaurHow to Install Copilot in Visual Studio08.20.2024read more
Business Intelligence Looker vs. Tableau: Which BI Tool Is the Winner? By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments August 19, 2024 Salesforce’s acquisition of Tableau intensified competition in the BI software market. At the same time, Google acquired Looker, positioning it to compete with Azure and AWS in the cloud. Our analysts broke down the Looker vs. Tableau comparison with an apples-to-apples comparison. Tableau won, hands down. Let’s dive into the details Ritinder KaurLooker vs. Tableau: Which BI Tool Is the Winner?08.19.2024read more
Business Intelligence MicroStrategy vs Tableau: Which BI Software Is the Winner? By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 2 comments Last Reviewed: August 19, 2024 According to 6sense, Tableau claims a 15.03% share in the BI market, while MicroStrategy carries 1.53%. That’s a large gap, and yet MicroStrategy emerges as a Tableau competitor in big data analytics. This article intends to support your BI software search with a MicroStrategy vs. Tableau comparison. As Tableau comes out on top, it’s worth diving into the details. Ritinder KaurMicroStrategy vs Tableau: Which BI Software Is the Winner?08.16.2024read more
Enterprise Reporting 10 Reporting Features To Consider When Buying Software By Ritinder Kaur Enterprise Reporting 2 comments August 16, 2024 When your data is siloed and your insights dated, you may seek a reporting tool that does it all — project management, billing, reporting and analytics. Patching disparate technologies together may get you more for the price of one, but will the software perform as expected? What are the tradeoffs, and which reporting features are non-negotiable? In this article, you’ll find a reporting features checklist, handy tips and resources for systematic software selection. Ritinder Kaur10 Reporting Features To Consider When Buying Software08.16.2024read more
Embedded Analytics Key Embedded BI Requirements And Features By Ritinder Kaur Embedded Analytics No comments August 15, 2024 Whether you’re a buyer or a software vendor, embedded BI systems must figure high on your wishlist. And why not? They promise a seamless user experience, encouraging more people to engage with data. This article breaks down the embedded BI features to consider when buying software. Ritinder KaurKey Embedded BI Requirements And Features08.15.2024read more
Embedded Analytics What Is A Semantic Layer? A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Embedded Analytics No comments August 13, 2024 According to a 2023 Atlan survey, business leaders spend less on self-service than governance and data quality. For 60% of data leaders, information governance and quality are key focus areas. Despite the industry hype about user autonomy, data integrity has always been at the top of enterprises’ ask list. It’s even more critical, with embedded analytics being the norm. This article discusses the next best thing in application integration, the semantic layer, and what to consider when opting for one. Ritinder KaurWhat Is A Semantic Layer? A Comprehensive Guide08.13.2024read more
Business Intelligence What is Predictive Analytics? Strategies for Driving Future Revenue Growth By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 6 comments August 12, 2024 Gazing into crystal balls is fun, but we know it isn’t serious. After all, it isn’t a science. But predictive analytics is, and this discipline drives academic research and enterprise across domains, helping businesses stay agile. Whether you’re a student eager to explore this exciting field or a business professional seeking insights, this article is for you. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of the science behind the magic of business forecasting and the BI tools that make it happen. Ritinder KaurWhat is Predictive Analytics? Strategies for Driving Future Revenue Growth08.12.2024read more
Big Data Analytics, Business Analytics, Business Intelligence Business Analytics vs. Data Analytics: What’s the Difference? By Ritinder Kaur Big Data Analytics, Business Analytics, Business Intelligence 4 comments Last Reviewed: November 18, 2024 Would you believe that over 100,000 business analytics jobs were posted in the U.S. as of Feb. 2023? As new blood fills the industry and demand for BI skills skyrockets, understanding business analytics vs. data analytics is crucial. This article breaks it down with the associated roles, courses and certifications. Plus, it has information for software buyers. Which tool should you choose? Ritinder KaurBusiness Analytics vs. Data Analytics: What’s the Difference?08.09.2024read more
Big Data Analytics Hadoop vs Spark: Who Is The Winner? By Ritinder Kaur Big Data Analytics No comments August 8, 2024 Hadoop and Spark are open-source big data software meant to replace traditional information warehouses. They help organizations harness the power of big data for real-time analytics and business intelligence. When searching for big data solutions, the Hadoop vs. Spark comparison is common. This article delves into a comparative analysis of the two platforms. Though Spark comes out as the winner, we can’t dismiss Hadoop altogether. Ritinder KaurHadoop vs Spark: Who Is The Winner?08.08.2024read more
Business Analytics How To Create a Data Analytics RFP By Ritinder Kaur Business Analytics 1 comment August 7, 2024 Data and business go together like peanut butter and jelly. And this happy marriage of digital information and enterprise translates into business analytics that fuels the data-driven economy. Suppose you’re one of the thousands of businesses planning on adopting a big data or business analytics solution. In that case, it’s time for you to start drawing up a data analytics RFP (request for proposal) for your needed tools. Ritinder KaurHow To Create a Data Analytics RFP08.07.2024read more
Embedded Analytics Dashboarding: A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Embedded Analytics No comments Last Reviewed: November 18, 2024 “That’s not a dashboard!” I smiled, looking at the image on my phone. I was discussing writing this embedded analytics article with a friend, and she was coming up blank. “What’s a dashboard? Is it like the Tumblr dashboard?” she asked. I asked her to share the image, which was her Tumblr feed. Like her, this article is for you if you don’t know what dashboards are and what they do. It includes a how-to tutorial for Excel dashboarding with everyday challenges and burning questions. Ritinder KaurDashboarding: A Comprehensive Guide08.05.2024read more
Big Data Analytics What is Data Lifecycle Management? Key Components, Stages and Best Practices By Ritinder Kaur Big Data Analytics No comments Last Reviewed: September 19, 2024 It’s frustrating. Your business intelligence strategy is fraught with data quality issues, and it’s tough keeping up with fast-changing data norms. Siloed repositories are the bane of your existence, unleashing the twin woes of dwindling profits and lost opportunities. Will a governance strategy be enough, or do you need data lifecycle management? Ritinder KaurWhat is Data Lifecycle Management? Key Components, Stages and Best Practices08.02.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Best KPI Software Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 2 comments Last Reviewed: November 1, 2024 Watching from the sidelines as the competition nails profitable campaigns, conversions, acquisitions and partnerships doesn’t feel great if you aren’t part of the winner’s circle. It can feel like you’re losing control if your tech stack is outdated and your KPIs are all over the place. How can you measure progress and benchmark goals? By mastering your data with the best KPI software your money can buy. Ritinder KaurThe Best KPI Software Of 202408.02.2024read more
Resources How To Change Your Signature in Outlook By Ritinder Kaur Resources No comments Last Reviewed: August 8, 2024 Outlook comes in many flavors, and changing your signature on the desktop and web can be confusing. But fear not — this article will guide you on how to change your signature in Outlook. Ritinder KaurHow To Change Your Signature in Outlook08.02.2024read more
Business Analytics Advanced Business Analytics Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Analytics 4 comments Last Reviewed: October 31, 2024 Business analytics involves tasks you can’t do with standard analytics software, like documentation, requirements and project management. Searching for best-fit business analytics tools is challenging — you don’t want piecemeal solutions that cost more than they solve. One way to go is shortlisting integrated solutions, but you need to match them with your requirements and budget. Ritinder KaurAdvanced Business Analytics Tools Of 202408.02.2024read more
Business Intelligence Business Intelligence RFP Template and Guide By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 1 comment August 1, 2024 Negotiating a contract and finalizing a BI software vendor depends on how well you match suppliers to your requirements using a request for proposal (RFP). How is a business intelligence RFP different from an RFI and RFQ? Do you need all three, and in what order? This article discusses these documents and how an RFP supports preliminary vendor outreach. Ritinder KaurBusiness Intelligence RFP Template and Guide08.01.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Best Statistical Software Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 6 comments Last Reviewed: November 4, 2024 Wouldn’t you jump at the chance to get things done faster? Using sample data for business intelligence is a lifesaver when big data makes you feel like you’re drowning. Such focused analysis needs something more than business intelligence (BI) software. And statistical software is looking good right now. What’s not to like? It helps manage risk, predict the future and do better business. This article showcases the top five statistical solutions and provides handy selection resources. Ritinder KaurThe Best Statistical Software Tools Of 202407.31.2024read more
Business Intelligence Business Intelligence Implementation: A Comprehensive Guide By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence No comments Last Reviewed: September 18, 2024 Imagine navigating rush hour traffic while blindfolded and in a new car. You don’t know all the controls, and you didn’t bother to ask. Disaster! It’s a reality for many businesses struggling to harness their BI tools. In this article, we delve into the nitty-gritty of business intelligence implementation. It includes nuggets of wisdom and experience from my interview with Anurag Sanghai, Principal Solutions Architect with Intellicus Technologies. Ritinder KaurBusiness Intelligence Implementation: A Comprehensive Guide07.31.2024read more
Resources How To Install OptiFine: Ultimate Guide By Ritinder Kaur Resources 37 comments July 30, 2024 OptiFine is a Minecraft mod with customizable settings that enhances the graphics and performance of the Java-based version of the game. Created by sp614x, a Minecraft modder, OptiFine was originally intended as a performance booster; now, it helps embellish the Minecraft world with graphics and video effects. This article will show you how to install OptiFine and what this mod does for the game. However, you might have some questions before you decide to download it. Read on for the answers and steps on how to install OptiFine. Ritinder KaurHow To Install OptiFine: Ultimate Guide07.30.2024read more
Business Intelligence, Enterprise Reporting The Best Open-Source Reporting Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence, Enterprise Reporting No comments July 30, 2024 Open-source reporting tools evoke cautious discussions. You’re never sure if you’re for or against them. Are they on par with proprietary software in addressing large enterprises’ business needs? Among reporting software, open-source solutions garner much interest — they’re cost-effective and customizable. But what about licensing? Which open-source license should you opt for? What are the best practices for adopting open-code software? Read more on this ahead. Ritinder KaurThe Best Open-Source Reporting Tools Of 202407.30.2024read more
Business Intelligence Business Intelligence Trends In 2024: Future Of BI By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 2 comments July 29, 2024 The post-pandemic phase saw a boom in BI software investments, especially the cloud. Remote work had finally come of age. Automated data pipelines, app marketplaces, AI-ML technologies and GenAI have become trending topics. In the future, which business intelligence trends will persist, and which ones will lose steam? This article delves into the future of BI by discussing the key trends expected to shape this domain in 2024. Ritinder KaurBusiness Intelligence Trends In 2024: Future Of BI07.29.2024read more
Business Intelligence The Best Free BI Software Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 2 comments July 29, 2024 You’re not far off the mark if you’re considering free BI software. They’re flexibly deployable and user-friendly, and some are even full-featured. What’s not to like? By free, we mean at no cost, though people sometimes use it for programs that aren’t entirely free. So what’s free and what isn’t? Worry not. This article breaks down related terms and showcases the best free BI tools on the market. Ritinder KaurThe Best Free BI Software Tools Of 202407.29.2024read more
Business Analytics The Best Retail Analytics Software Tools Of 2024 By Ritinder Kaur Business Analytics 8 comments Last Reviewed: November 1, 2024 Did you know that the top 25 fashion retailers garnered over 90% of retail revenue during the pandemic? What are they doing right, and why don’t we see more of it? What’s holding back other players? Much of it has to do with business analytics tools and data culture. Not having the right retail analytics software and mindset can set you back. This article introduces you to the best retail solutions and answers the above questions. Ritinder KaurThe Best Retail Analytics Software Tools Of 202407.29.2024read more
Business Intelligence SAS vs SAP vs Power BI By Ritinder Kaur Business Intelligence 8 comments July 29, 2024 When it comes to cutting-edge business intelligence and analytics tools, the SAS, SAP BI vs. Power BI comparison covers it. The three products are analytics market leaders with the latest capabilities that set them miles ahead of their competitors. However, Power BI leads the pack. Let’s see how. Ritinder KaurSAS vs SAP vs Power BI07.29.2024read more
Embedded Analytics Sales Dashboards: Comprehensive Examples By Ritinder Kaur Embedded Analytics No comments Last Reviewed: July 29, 2024 If you’re struggling with adoption pains regarding business intelligence tools, you’re not alone. Many businesses struggle to wean their employees off familiar platforms like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. Switching between applications wastes man-hours and impacts downstream processes. It affects sales dashboards too, slowing down analysis, decisions and strategy-building. This article discusses the barriers to software adoption for dashboard users and suggests possible solutions. Ritinder KaurSales Dashboards: Comprehensive Examples07.26.2024read more
ETL ETL Requirements Checklist And Evaluation Template By Ritinder Kaur ETL No comments July 25, 2024 ETL solutions are seldom only that — many are data management, BI and analytics tools. It makes selecting an ETL module that much trickier. Your stakeholders’ expectations are riding on your software search, and you don’t want to fall short when a business decision is on the line. We’ve got you covered with a handy ETL requirements checklist, helpful tips and resources to start the procurement process. Ritinder KaurETL Requirements Checklist And Evaluation Template07.25.2024read more