Google Looker vs Qlik Sense: A Comparative Analysis
Introduction
Choosing the right business intelligence tool is crucial for effective data analysis and informed decision-making. Google Looker and Qlik Sense are leading platforms that offer powerful data visualization and interactive dashboard capabilities.
While both are robust solutions, they have distinct features and use cases that may influence your choice. This page provides a clear comparison between Google Looker and Qlik Sense to help you determine the best fit for your organization's needs.
We'll also explore how Sourcetable offers a simpler alternative with its modernized, spreadsheet-like interface that seamlessly syncs with your data, streamlining business intelligence tasks such as reporting and analytics.
What is Google Looker?
Google Looker is a business intelligence platform that is part of the Google Cloud product suite. It is designed to help users access, analyze, and take action on their data. As a self-service and governed BI platform, it provides a secure and scalable environment for data analysis.
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Google Looker is a business intelligence platform that is part of the Google Cloud product suite. It is designed to help users access, analyze, and take action on their data. As a self-service and governed BI platform, it provides a secure and scalable environment for data analysis.
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Features of Google Looker
- Enables data experiences that allow users to interact with their business data.
- Offers chat-based analytics for conversational data exploration.
- Incorporates generative AI for the development of data-driven applications.
- Operates in the cloud, ensuring availability and accessibility.
- Supports the creation of custom applications with reliable metrics.
- Integrates with existing BI environments through Looker modeling.
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Platform Accessibility
Google Looker is available in the cloud, providing users with the flexibility to access their data from anywhere, ensuring constant availability for data analysis and decision-making.
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Integration and Customization
Users are empowered to build custom applications leveraging Looker's trusted metrics. Additionally, Google Looker supports integration with users' existing BI environments, enhancing its versatility and utility in diverse data ecosystems.
What is Qlik Sense?
Qlik Sense is a data analytics platform that leverages artificial intelligence to deliver insights. It is designed to provide fast and intuitive analytics experiences.
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Qlik Sense is a data analytics platform that leverages artificial intelligence to deliver insights. It is designed to provide fast and intuitive analytics experiences.
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Core Features
- Utilizes AI for insight generation
- Employs associative analytics for data exploration
- Enables self-service data visualization
- Facilitates the creation of interactive dashboards
- Supports search and natural language queries
- Performs advanced and predictive analytics
- Automates insight generation and data preparation
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Integration and Accessibility
- Connects with a wide array of data sources
- Accessible from any location
- Compatible with various devices
- Can be embedded into other applications
- Provides a comprehensive set of APIs for extensibility
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Reliability and Adoption
Qlik Sense is a trusted solution embraced by over 40,000 customers globally for its scalable and robust analytics capabilities.
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Google Looker Features
Business Intelligence and Real-Time Data |
Looker is a robust BI tool providing a fresh and real-time view of data. It ensures data consistency and governance. |
Cloud Integration and Accessibility |
Looker supports data access from multiple clouds and is fully integrated as a core product within the Google Cloud service portfolio. |
Data Management with LookML |
Centralized data rule management is facilitated by LookML, a SQL-based modeling language. This enables version-controlled development with Git. |
Insight Delivery and Visualization |
Looker simplifies report and dashboard creation and integrates with Looker Studio for data analysis and visualization. |
Enterprise Scalability |
Designed for enterprise-class business intelligence, Looker provides scalability and robust APIs for comprehensive integration. |
Key Features of Qlik Sense
Associative Analytics Engine |
Qlik Sense's associative analytics engine enables deep exploration of data, allowing users to uncover insights and perform instant calculations. Its unique, non-linear model facilitates data discovery in any direction. |
Augmented Analytics |
Augmented analytics in Qlik Sense leverage AI and ML for automated insight generation, predictive analytics, and AI-assisted creation and data preparation. AutoML enables code-free development of machine learning models. |
Visualizations and Dashboards |
Interactive dashboards and visualizations allow for compelling data presentation. Qlik Sense supports self-service data visualizations that are customizable and highly interactive. |
Data Integration and Preparation |
Qlik Sense provides comprehensive data prep and integration capabilities, allowing for the combination and loading of data from various sources. A self-service data catalog aids in data management. |
AI-Powered Insights and Predictive Analytics |
AI-powered insights and predictive analytics tools in Qlik Sense allow for forward-looking analysis and intelligent action based on data-driven predictions. |
Search and Natural Language Interaction |
Natural language processing and conversational analytics enable users to explore data using natural language, enhancing accessibility and ease of use. |
Alerting and Automation |
Data-driven alerting technology and event-driven actions ensure timely responses to data changes. Automated event triggering and application automation streamline workflows. |
Collaboration and Sharing |
Collaboration features, including notes and discussion threads, facilitate teamwork and shared insights. Reporting and sharing capabilities support decision-making processes. |
Customization and Extensibility |
Qlik Sense is fully customizable with an extensive set of open APIs, allowing for the creation of custom apps, visualizations, extensions, and embedded analytics. |
Scalability and Connectivity |
High performance scalability ensures Qlik Sense can handle large data volumes. It integrates with numerous data sources, including apps, databases, and cloud services, through powerful data integration and connectivity. |
Mobile Accessibility |
Qlik Sense provides mobility capabilities, enabling access and analysis of data on mobile devices for insights on the go. |
Deployment Flexibility |
With options for cloud analytics or on-premises deployment, Qlik Sense offers flexibility to meet diverse organizational needs. |
Advantages of Google Looker for Business Intelligence
Data Exploration and Visualization
Looker Studio Pro enables users to delve into datasets to answer critical business questions. Its robust visualization tools facilitate the creation of informative dashboards, enhancing data-driven decision-making.
Enterprise-Grade Capabilities
With its enterprise capabilities, Looker Studio Pro supports the intricate needs of medium to large scale enterprises. This includes advanced content management and access to dedicated enterprise support.
Collaboration and Sharing
The platform excels in team collaboration, allowing for efficient management and sharing of team content. Looker Studio Pro's environment is conducive to coalescence around data insights, fostering a collaborative analytics culture.
Disadvantages of Using Google Looker for Business Intelligence
Integration and Connectivity Issues
Lack of seamless connectivity can hinder efficient data analysis in Looker, posing a significant challenge for businesses requiring stable and reliable data sources.
User Experience Challenges
Looker's steep learning curve and non-intuitive interface may lead to a prolonged adjustment period for new users, impacting productivity. Additionally, a complicated sharing mechanism complicates collaboration.
Performance Concerns
The platform's slow performance, particularly when handling multiple graphs, can impede the swift retrieval and interpretation of business insights, leading to delays in decision-making.
Cost and Resource Intensive
Data Management and Documentation
Frequently Asked Questions About Google Looker
What are the hours for Looker Support in Japanese?
Japanese language 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 can I ensure my Looker instance receives support?
Your Looker instance must be running an officially supported version. If hosted by Looker, it will automatically update to supported releases. Customer-hosted instances need to be updated manually if they're running an unsupported version. Additionally, Looker (original) instances require the Google Cloud Project number to be filled in on the Admin General Settings page.
Who is eligible to receive Looker Support?
Looker Support is available to users with the Tech Support Editor IAM role, and to administrators and developers on instances using Legacy Support.
Is Looker Support available 24/7?
Looker Support is available 24/7 in English.
What might I be prompted to do when submitting a Looker support request?
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
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Modernizing business intelligence
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Embedding analytics in a quote-to-revenue platform
Advantages of Qlik Sense for Business Intelligence
Self-Service Visualization and Data Literacy
Qlik Sense enhances data literacy by providing self-service visualization solutions. Its user-friendly interface allows users to create and customize analytics solutions, enabling efficient reporting and analysis without extensive technical expertise.
Cost-Effectiveness
With a pricing model of $30 per user per month, Qlik Sense is a relatively affordable option for businesses seeking powerful data analytics tools. Its cost-effectiveness makes it accessible for a wide range of users within an organization.
Device Compatibility and Mobility
Qlik Sense offers compatibility across a variety of devices, paired with mobility features and responsive design, ensuring seamless access to business intelligence tasks on-the-go.
Collaboration and Security
Its centralized hub facilitates easy collaboration and information sharing, while flexible and comprehensive security features maintain data integrity and access control.
Customization and Extensibility
Qlik Sense's open APIs allow for the development of custom apps and new visualizations, providing businesses the flexibility to tailor their business intelligence solutions.
AI-Powered Analytics
As an AI-powered tool, Qlik Sense offers advanced data analysis capabilities, fostering more informed decision-making based on real-time business intelligence.
Disadvantages of Qlik Sense for Business Intelligence
Performance Issues with Large Data
Qlik Sense may experience performance degradation when handling large data sets, leading to slower data processing speeds.
Cost Prohibitive for Larger Teams
The cost of Qlik Sense can be a significant barrier for larger teams, potentially restricting access due to budget constraints.
Limited Data Export Functionality
Not all information can be downloaded to Excel from Qlik Sense, limiting the ability to share and manipulate data outside the platform.
Additional Costs for Extensions
Additional expenses are incurred for add-ons and plugins, which are necessary for extended functionality in Qlik Sense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Qlik Sense
What payment methods are available for Qlik Sense training?
You can pay for training with a credit card, Training Card, or invoice.
How can I find out which Qlik Sense training courses I should take?
You can take training recommendations to find which courses to take for your role.
How do I check my registration status for a Qlik Sense training course?
You can check your registration status on the My Training page.
What can I use a Training Card for in Qlik Sense training?
You can use a Training Card to pay for most Qlik training products, except for certifications.
Do I need to use my Training Card within a certain time frame?
You have 12 months from the purchase date to use the Training Card.
Use Cases for Qlik Sense
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Improving efficiency, customer service, and sales as demonstrated by Dominos
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Creating a company-wide portal for analytics as utilized by Intuit
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Enhancing operational success in retail as seen with Urban Outfitters
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Reducing the cost and effort to convert loan prospects exemplified by Integra
Choosing Sourcetable Over Google Looker and Qlik Sense
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Streamlined Data Integration
Sourcetable offers a spreadsheet-like interface that simplifies the process of syncing data from various services. This straightforward approach to data integration is efficient for users seeking to consolidate their data analysis and reporting.
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User-Friendly Reporting
The platform's user-friendly design facilitates easier reporting compared to the more complex interfaces of Google Looker and Qlik Sense. This ease of use is beneficial for users who prioritize simplicity in their BI tools.
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Enhanced Accessibility
Sourcetable's interface resembles widespread spreadsheet applications, which can be more accessible to users not familiar with specialized BI platforms. This accessibility can lead to quicker adoption within organizations.
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Autonomous Data Management
With Sourcetable, users can manage their data autonomously without the need for extensive training or understanding of embedded analytics or data modeling, unlike the expertise required for Google Looker's offerings.
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Simplify your BI tooling with a spreadsheet that syncs with all your data.
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Comparing Google Looker and Qlik Sense
Business Intelligence Capabilities
Both Google Looker and Qlik Sense are platforms that offer organizational business intelligence, enabling enterprises to access, analyze, and act on data. They provide self-service business intelligence, allowing users to perform data analysis without extensive technical skills.
Data Accessibility and Analysis
Both platforms facilitate data-driven decision-making by providing tools for data access, analysis, and visualization. They support self-service and governed BI to ensure that data can be trusted and is managed according to organizational policies.
Embedded Analytics
Google Looker and Qlik Sense can be used for embedded analytics applications. They enable the integration of analytics and interactive data visualizations directly into user applications and workflows.
Application Development
Both platforms offer capabilities to build data-powered applications. Users can extend the functionality of their existing systems by creating custom applications that leverage the data and BI capabilities of the platforms.
Differences Between Google Looker and Qlik Sense
Business Intelligence Approach
Google Looker focuses on providing both self-service and governed BI, enabling users to access trusted data experiences. Looker supports organizational and self-service business intelligence models. Conversely, Qlik Sense emphasizes user-driven business discovery and interactive data visualization capabilities.
Data-Powered Applications and Embedded Analytics
Looker allows the building of data-powered applications and offers features for embedded analytics and data modeling. Qlik Sense, while also strong in analytics, may not offer the same level of integration for building data-powered applications.
Generative AI Feature
Google Looker includes a generative AI feature, which may not be a component of Qlik Sense's core offerings.
Data Interaction
Comparison of Google Looker, Qlik Sense, and Sourcetable
Google Looker vs Qlik Sense
Shared Capabilities: Both Google Looker and Qlik Sense are advanced business intelligence platforms offering self-service BI capabilities. They allow users to access and analyze data for organizational business intelligence.
Unique Features: Google Looker stands out with its ability to build data-powered applications and a generative AI feature. It also offers embedded data modeling. Qlik Sense, on the other hand, is known for its associative data modeling and interactive dashboards.
Google Looker vs Sourcetable
Shared Capabilities: Google Looker and Sourcetable both serve the BI space, enabling data analysis and the creation of workflows and applications. They can be used for organizational and self-service BI.
Unique Features: Google Looker offers governed BI, the ability to chat with business data, and a generative AI feature. Sourcetable is typically recognized for its spreadsheet interface that combines data from multiple sources.
Qlik Sense vs Sourcetable
Shared Capabilities: Qlik Sense and Sourcetable are used for data analysis and reporting in the business intelligence domain. They support self-service BI and data visualization.
Unique Features: Qlik Sense provides an interactive and associative approach to data exploration, while Sourcetable is distinguished by its user-friendly spreadsheet format and data integration from various sources.
Try Sourcetable
Simplify your BI tooling with a spreadsheet that syncs with all your data.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sourcetable
What is Sourcetable and who typically uses it?
Sourcetable is a spreadsheet application that allows users to access data from most 3rd party applications, query data, and build live models that automatically update. It is typically used by growth teams and business operations teams.
How much does Sourcetable cost?
Sourcetable costs $50 per month for the starter plan and $250 per month for the pro plan. Additional seats cost $20 per month per seat.
Do I need to know how to code to use Sourcetable?
No, Sourcetable does not require any coding to use.
How often does Sourcetable update data integrations?
Data integrations update every 15 minutes on the regular plan and every 5 minutes on the pro plan.
Does Sourcetable offer a free trial?
Yes, all plans have a 14-day free trial.
Google Looker Pricing Overview
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Platform Pricing
Looker platform pricing is a fixed cost for running a Looker instance. It encompasses platform administration, integrations, and semantic modeling capabilities.
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User Pricing
User pricing involves licensing individuals to access the Looker platform. This cost varies depending on the user type and their permissions.
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Billing and Account Management
Each Looker instance is associated with a billing account. New instances and added users incur charges billed to this account.
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Platform Editions and Cost Variations
Looker offers Standard, Enterprise, and Embed editions, with costs adjusted according to user types and permissions.
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Subscription Terms
Annual subscriptions can be purchased for one, two, or three-year terms.
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License Types
- Developer User
- Standard User
- Viewer User
Qlik Sense Pricing Overview
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Annual Billing Structure
Qlik Cloud Analytics Plans are structured with an annual billing cycle, offering users a long-term commitment to their data analytics needs.
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Premium Plan Pricing
The starting price for the Premium plan is $2,700 per month, catering to businesses seeking advanced analytics capabilities.
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Enterprise Plan Data Allowance
Enterprise plans offer a minimum of 500GB per year for data analysis, designed for larger organizations with substantial data requirements.
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Inclusive Features in Enterprise Plans
All features available in the Premium plan are included in Enterprise plans, providing comprehensive tools for extensive data analysis and reporting.
User Reviews of Google Looker
User reviews of Google Looker, a business intelligence (BI) and analytics platform, have highlighted several concerns. Some users have gone as far as to label it the worst reporting tool available on the market.
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User reviews of Google Looker, a business intelligence (BI) and analytics platform, have highlighted several concerns. Some users have gone as far as to label it the worst reporting tool available on the market.
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Common Complaints
- Performance issues, with users finding the platform to be slow.
- Users report encountering bugs while using Looker.
- The user experience is often described as unintuitive.
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Comparative Feedback
In comparison to other tools, both free and paid products such as Data Studio and Tableau are often mentioned as superior alternatives to Looker.
Conclusion
In comparing Google Looker and Qlik Sense, it's clear that each business intelligence tool has distinct features and capabilities. Google Looker's integration with Google's ecosystem and advanced data modeling language can benefit organizations heavily invested in Google services. Qlik Sense, with its associative data model, is well-suited for users who require interactive data discovery and visualization capabilities.
However, for businesses seeking a more straightforward approach to business intelligence, Sourcetable offers a valuable alternative. By syncing data in real-time across various services into an easily navigable spreadsheet interface, it simplifies the BI process. This can be especially appealing for users who prioritize a familiar and intuitive user experience without the need for complex setup or training.
Try Sourcetable
Simplify your BI tooling with a spreadsheet that syncs with all your data.
Learn More
Simplify Your BI Tooling
Sourcetable is the AI spreadsheet that lets you analyze your data in one place. Get unlimited access free for 14 days.