Google Looker vs Opentext: A Comparative Analysis
Introduction
Comparing business intelligence tools, specifically Google Looker and Opentext, is essential for companies aiming to harness their data effectively. Both platforms offer unique features and capabilities for data analytics and reporting.
However, businesses seeking a more intuitive and accessible solution may consider Sourcetable. This tool offers a spreadsheet-like interface that modernizes data interaction and synchronizes seamlessly with existing data, presenting an alternative to the traditional options of Google Looker or Opentext.
What is Google Looker?
Google Looker is a business intelligence platform that is part of Google Cloud. It enables users to access, analyze, and utilize their data effectively. As a self-service and governed BI platform, it provides reliable data experiences and allows for the creation of custom applications with trusted metrics.
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Google Looker is a business intelligence platform that is part of Google Cloud. It enables users to access, analyze, and utilize their data effectively. As a self-service and governed BI platform, it provides reliable data experiences and allows for the creation of custom applications with trusted metrics.
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Capabilities
- Delivers data experiences allowing users to act on their data.
- Facilitates conversations with business data through chat.
- Employs generative AI for building data-powered applications.
- Integrates Looker modeling with existing BI environments.
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Accessibility
Google Looker operates in a cloud environment, ensuring availability and scalability for various business needs.
What is OpenText
OpenText is an Information Management company that specializes in a range of solutions including AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity. It provides comprehensive tools and platforms designed to enhance enterprise information management.
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OpenText is an Information Management company that specializes in a range of solutions including AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity. It provides comprehensive tools and platforms designed to enhance enterprise information management.
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AI and Cloud Services
OpenText offers AI solutions through opentext.ai and supports businesses with Cloud Editions for scalable and flexible management systems.
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Cybersecurity and Data Protection
The company delivers a suite of cybersecurity solutions, including data protection, digital forensics, and endpoint security to safeguard enterprise data.
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Developer and Management Solutions
With developer API services, OpenText enables integration and customization of applications. It also provides application delivery management to optimize software deployment.
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Customer and Workforce Management
Customer experience management solutions are available to enhance client engagement, while IT automation and mobile workforce solutions streamline operational efficiency.
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Google Looker Key Features
Business Intelligence |
Looker is a BI tool that delivers enterprise-class intelligence. |
Real-Time Data View |
Provides a fresh and governed real-time view of data. |
Data Access |
Accesses data from multiple clouds. |
Insights Integration |
Integrates with Looker Studio for data analysis and visualization. |
Report and Dashboard Creation |
Simplifies report and dashboard creation. |
Data Governance |
Uses LookML for centralized business rules and definitions management. |
Version Control |
Employs Git version-controlled data model with LookML. |
Google Cloud Integration |
Looker is integrated with Google Cloud console and is a core Google Cloud product. |
APIs and Integrations |
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Key Features of OpenText
Content Services Platforms |
OpenText Content Services Platforms enhance productivity by linking information to people and workflows. They support deployment in both private and public cloud environments, offering flexibility and scalability. |
Extended ECM and Documentum |
OpenText Extended ECM and Documentum streamline enterprise processes by integrating content management capabilities. Extended ECM breaks down information silos, while Documentum manages secure, high-volume content needs. |
OpenText Core |
OpenText Core merges the strengths of Documentum and Extended ECM into a singular public cloud solution. It is pivotal for driving digital transformation through its SaaS applications. |
Strategic Alliances |
OpenText has forged key partnerships with industry leaders like SAP, Salesforce, and Microsoft. These alliances enhance its ECM products, ensuring a comprehensive information management system. |
Enterprise Content Management (ECM) Products |
OpenText offers a suite of ECM products designed to create a holistic environment for managing information across an organization. |
Advantages of Google Looker for Business Intelligence
Comprehensive Data Exploration
Looker Studio Pro serves as an advanced enterprise business intelligence tool, enabling detailed data exploration. Users can delve deep into datasets to answer complex business questions, which is vital for informed decision-making.
Robust Visualization and Dashboard Sharing
With Looker Studio Pro, building and sharing visualizations and dashboards is streamlined, facilitating clear communication of insights. The tool's effectiveness in team collaboration and dashboard sharing is particularly beneficial for business intelligence reporting.
Enterprise-Grade Capabilities
The platform offers enterprise capabilities, making it suitable for medium to large scale enterprises. Managing team content and accessing enterprise support are key features that ensure smooth operation and scalability for growing businesses.
Team Collaboration and Content Management
Looker Studio Pro enhances team collaboration through its content management features. Teams can work together efficiently, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of business intelligence tasks.
Disadvantages of Using Google Looker for Business Intelligence
Learning Curve and User Experience
Google Looker presents a steep learning curve, making it challenging for new users to quickly adopt and leverage the platform for reporting and data analytics.
The platform's lack of intuitiveness can further complicate the onboarding process, and users have reported that Looker is not very intuitive, which may hinder efficiency.
Performance Issues
Performance drawbacks are notable, with users experiencing slow load times on the website and laggy interactions within the platform.
Additionally, having many graphs on a single page can lead to further performance degradation, impacting the user experience during data analysis.
Integration and Migration Challenges
Google Looker's connectivity limitations can pose challenges when integrating with various data sources, potentially limiting its versatility.
Migrating data, particularly from AWS to BigQuery, has been described as a painful process, which may deter businesses with existing data on different platforms.
Complexity in Sharing and Security
The mechanism for sharing insights and reports is complicated, which could impede collaboration within teams or with external stakeholders.
Strict security measures imposed by the security team might heavily restrict access, impacting the flexibility of data analytics and reporting processes.
Cost and Resources
Onboarding is expensive, which may be a significant consideration for businesses looking to manage costs effectively.
The scarcity of training materials and documentation can necessitate additional resources or external help, further increasing the total cost of ownership for Looker.
Frequently Asked Questions About Google Looker
What are the hours of operation for Looker Support in Japanese?
For Japanese language, Looker Support is available from 9:00 AM JST to 5:00 PM JST, Monday through Friday, and from 5:00 PM JST to 9:00 AM JST, Monday through Saturday, including weekends and holidays.
How do I ensure my Looker instance is eligible for support?
Your Looker instance must be running an officially supported version. Instances hosted by Looker automatically update to supported releases, while customer-hosted instances must manually update to a supported version.
Who is eligible to receive Looker Support?
Looker Support is available to users with the Tech Support EditorIAM role and to administrators and developers on instances using Legacy Support.
What do I need to do to receive support for my Looker (original) instance?
For Looker (original) instances, you need to fill in the Google Cloud Project number on the Admin General Settings page to receive Looker Support.
What should I expect when submitting a support request to Looker?
You may be prompted to choose from a product area when submitting a support request.
Use Cases for Google Looker
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Reducing client report time by streamlining data analysis
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Modernizing business intelligence in sports management
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Embedding analytics in a quote-to-revenue platform
Opentext Advantages for Business Intelligence
Integrated Information Management
Opentext's platform, as the most complete and integrated information management solution, streamlines reporting and data analytics processes.
Data Organization and Protection
The platform's capabilities to organize, integrate, and protect data enhance the reliability and security of business intelligence tasks.
Digital Transformation Support
For complex digital transformations, Opentext's platform offers robust support for advanced analytics and reporting requirements.
Industry Recognition
With 18 years as a Gartner-recognized global leader in ECM, Opentext's expertise is well-established in the business intelligence sector.
Expanded Market Leadership
Acquisitions such as GXS, Dell EMC's Enterprise Content Division, and Carbonite have broadened Opentext's capabilities in data analytics and reporting.
Financial Stability
Surpassing $3 billion in revenue, Opentext demonstrates strong financial stability, ensuring continuous innovation and support for business intelligence tools.
Global Presence and Expertise
With over 14,000 employees and offices in more than 60 countries, Opentext offers extensive support and a wealth of expertise for global business intelligence needs.
Disadvantages of OpenText for Business Intelligence
User Interface Challenges
Some versions of OpenText Content Suite present a daunting user interface, which can hinder efficient reporting and data analytics. The lack of modern tools within the interface may also limit the effectiveness of business intelligence activities.
Integration Issues
Flawless integrations are crucial for business intelligence, yet some versions of OpenText Content Suite have integration issues. This could lead to complications when connecting with other business systems for data analysis and reporting.
Cost Considerations
For businesses looking for cost-effective business intelligence solutions, OpenText Content Suite may not be the most affordable option, potentially affecting the overall return on investment.
Learning Curve
The long learning curve associated with some versions of OpenText Content Suite can delay the full utilization of its business intelligence capabilities, impacting the timeliness of insights.
Document Type Limitations
Limited document type acceptance by some versions of OpenText Content Suite can restrict the range of data analytics and reporting functions, as not all relevant data types may be supported.
Frequently Asked Questions About Opentext
What is included in the OpenText Learning Subscriptions?
OpenText Learning Subscriptions include EnCaseTM OnDemand courses, EnCaseTM classroom courses at various OpenTextTM training facilities, EnCaseTM virtual classes, and each EnCaseTM OnDemand course may be taken one time.
Can OpenText Learning Subscriptions be transferred, and is there a cost?
Yes, OpenText Learning Subscriptions can be transferred. Transferring an unused subscription is free, but there is a fee for transferring a used subscription.
How long is each student enrolled in an EnCaseTM OnDemand course?
Students are enrolled in each EnCaseTM OnDemand course for 30 days.
Can I get a transcript of my completed courses?
Yes, transcripts of course history are available in your account.
Are EnCaseTM training courses eligible for CPE credits?
Yes, EnCaseTM training is registered with NASBA and is eligible for CPE credits.
Use Cases for Opentext
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R&D/Software engineering
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Customer operations
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Supply chain and manufacturing
Comparing Business Intelligence Tools: Sourcetable vs. Google Looker and Opentext
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Streamlined Data Integration
Sourcetable provides a unique advantage through its ability to aggregate data from multiple services into a user-friendly spreadsheet interface. Unlike Google Looker and Opentext, which may require more complex data modeling and embedded analytics capabilities, Sourcetable simplifies the process, allowing for immediate data analysis and reporting.
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User Accessibility
With its emphasis on a spreadsheet-like environment, Sourcetable enhances accessibility for users familiar with traditional spreadsheet applications. This contrasts with Google Looker's approach to self-service and governed BI, potentially posing a steeper learning curve for users not versed in data science.
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Efficiency in Reporting
The efficiency of Sourcetable in syncing and reporting is a key differentiator. It negates the need for the generative AI features and data-powered applications offered by Google Looker, delivering straightforward reporting solutions without additional complexity.
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Optimized for Quick Analysis
Sourcetable's design is optimized for quick data analysis. This can be more efficient than the more extensive BI solutions like Looker, which supports organizational and self-service BI but may not prioritize rapid, spreadsheet-like analysis.
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SEO-Optimized Phrasing
- Sourcetable simplifies complex data integration.
- Accessible business intelligence with a spreadsheet interface.
- Efficient data syncing and reporting solutions.
- Streamlined approach to data analytics.
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Comparing Google Looker and Opentext
Business Intelligence Capabilities
Both Google Looker and Opentext provide business intelligence solutions that enable organizations to access, analyze, and act on data. They facilitate data-driven decision-making processes.
Self-Service and Governed BI
Google Looker and Opentext offer self-service BI tools that empower users to generate insights without extensive technical know-how. They also provide governed BI to ensure data accuracy and consistency.
Data-Powered Applications
Each platform allows for the creation of data-powered applications, helping businesses to integrate data analytics into their workflows and operations.
Embedded Analytics and Data Modeling
Google Looker and Opentext share the capability for embedded analytics and data modeling, enabling the integration of analytics into user-facing applications.
Trusted Data Experiences
Both platforms are designed to deliver trusted data experiences, ensuring that users can rely on the accuracy and integrity of the insights they obtain.
Google Looker vs OpenText
Business Intelligence Capabilities
Google Looker is a business intelligence platform that offers self-service and governed BI, allowing for both organizational and self-service business intelligence. Looker can be used to access, analyze, and act on data, whereas OpenText specializes in Enterprise Information Management solutions which focus more on content management and digital discovery rather than BI.
Data-Powered Applications
Google Looker allows users to build data-powered applications, offering tools for embedded analytics and data modeling. OpenText, on the other hand, provides a range of services primarily around managing and delivering content rather than building data-centric applications.
Generative AI Feature
Google Looker has a generative AI feature which is not a commonly highlighted feature of OpenText products. OpenText's solutions are more geared towards content management and might not offer similar AI-driven data generation and analysis tools.
Data Interaction
Google Looker enables users to chat with business data, facilitating a conversational approach to data analysis. OpenText does not typically advertise conversational data interaction as a feature of its platforms.
Trusted Data Experiences
Google Looker can deliver trusted data experiences, ensuring that users have reliable and consistent data for their analytical needs. OpenText focuses more on the secure management of information and might not emphasize the aspect of data experiences in business intelligence.
Google Looker vs. Opentext vs. Sourcetable
Google Looker
Google Looker is a comprehensive business intelligence platform that offers a range of features for data management and analysis. It provides both self-service and governed BI, enabling users to access, analyze, and act on data independently while maintaining data governance. Looker allows for the creation of data-powered applications and offers generative AI features for advanced data insights. It supports embedded analytics and data modeling, which can be utilized for organizational and self-service BI. Additionally, Looker includes functionalities to build workflows, applications, and chat with business data, delivering trusted data experiences.
Opentext
Opentext specializes in Enterprise Information Management (EIM) solutions, focusing on managing and delivering structured and unstructured data. It offers a suite of products for content management, customer experience, and discovery, which may include analytics capabilities. However, the platform is not solely dedicated to business intelligence and lacks the emphasis on self-service BI, data application development, and generative AI features found in Google Looker. Opentext’s strengths lie in its content-centric approach to data management and governance.
Sourcetable
Sourcetable is a spreadsheet-based tool designed for data analysis and business intelligence. It simplifies data consolidation from multiple sources, making it accessible for users with varying technical skills. Unlike Google Looker, Sourcetable may not offer the same level of embedded analytics or data modeling capabilities. It is geared more towards self-service BI with an emphasis on usability and collaboration within a spreadsheet environment. Sourcetable's approach is less about building data applications and more about straightforward data analysis and reporting.
Comparison
Contrast
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sourcetable
What is Sourcetable and who typically uses it?
Sourcetable is a spreadsheet application that replaces workflows typically done in Excel, Google Sheets, and Business Intelligence tools. It is used by growth teams and business operations teams to centralize, analyze, and model data that updates over time.
Do I need to know how to code to use Sourcetable?
No, Sourcetable does not require coding to use. Users can query data and build live models without needing to write code.
How often does Sourcetable sync data?
Sourcetable syncs data from over 100 applications and most databases every 15 minutes on the regular plan and every 5 minutes on the pro plan.
What are the pricing plans for Sourcetable?
Sourcetable is $50 per month for the starter plan and $250 per month for the pro plan. All plans include a 14-day free trial, and additional seats can be added for $20 per month per seat.
How quickly can I start creating reports with Sourcetable?
Users can start creating reports with Sourcetable within minutes of setting it up, and models update automatically as data updates.
Google Looker Pricing Structure
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Platform Pricing
Platform pricing is the foundational cost for running a Looker instance, encompassing platform administration, integrations, and semantic modeling capabilities.
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User Pricing
User pricing applies to licensing individuals for access to the Looker platform, with costs varying by user type and permissions.
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Billing and Subscription Terms
Each Looker instance is linked to a billing account, which is charged for instance creation and adding users. Subscriptions are offered in one to three-year terms.
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Platform Editions and User Licenses
- Looker offers Standard, Enterprise, and Embed platform editions, with costs dependent on user roles and permissions.
- There are three types of user licenses: Developer User, Standard User, and Viewer User, each with different pricing levels.
OpenText Cost Overview
OpenText Documentum is an enterprise content management solution with significant associated costs. Organizations considering this platform should prepare for substantial financial investment.
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OpenText Documentum is an enterprise content management solution with significant associated costs. Organizations considering this platform should prepare for substantial financial investment.
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Initial and Recurring Costs
- No free trial or version is available, indicating an immediate cost for any level of usage.
- High implementation cost requires a sizable upfront investment.
- Specialized personnel necessitate ongoing expenses for expert staffing.
- Licensing fees contribute to the recurring costs for continued use of the software.
User Reviews of Google Looker
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General Sentiment
Looker is recognized as a business intelligence (BI) and analytics platform. Reviews indicate a mix of opinions, with some users considering it the worst reporting tool available.
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Performance Issues
Users have expressed dissatisfaction with Looker, citing that the platform is slow and buggy, which affects their user experience negatively.
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Usability Concerns
There are complaints regarding the intuitiveness of Looker, suggesting that users find difficulty in navigating and utilizing the platform effectively.
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Comparative Analysis
In comparison to other BI tools, both free and paid, such as Data Studio and Tableau, users feel that Looker falls short in meeting their expectations and requirements.
Conclusion
Google Looker and Opentext serve differing needs in the business intelligence landscape. Looker's integration with Google's suite of tools provides a robust data exploration environment, whereas Opentext focuses on information management and workflow optimization.
In contrast to these platforms, Sourcetable offers a more streamlined business intelligence solution. It syncs data in real-time across services into a spreadsheet interface, simplifying data analysis.
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