I Discovered the 7 Finest Information Visualization Software program for 2025

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I’ve all the time been fascinated by how the correct visuals can flip complicated info into one thing simple to grasp. Whether or not in shows, stories, or dashboards, a well-designed chart could make information extra participating and impactful. However I by no means actively explored information analytics—till I joined a mentorship program at G2.

As a part of this system, my mentor assigned me to create a compelling information story utilizing visualization instruments. I began with those we already used within the firm, however they fell brief—some lacked customization, and others didn’t successfully spotlight key insights. So, my mentor inspired me to discover alternate options to discover a higher match.

That’s after I began researching the finest information visualization software program, searching for instruments that would not solely construct charts but in addition improve storytelling and engagement. As I examined totally different instruments, I shortly noticed how a lot of a distinction the correct platform makes. Some have been feature-rich however overly complicated, whereas others have been simple to make use of however lacked depth. The very best ones struck a steadiness between usability, customization, and storytelling.

Ultimately, I discovered the correct instruments to assist me full my project, turning uncooked information into a transparent, participating, and significant narrative. That have reshaped how I take into consideration information—choosing the proper visualization device isn’t nearly options; it’s about making info really accessible and impactful.

On this article, I’ll share my expertise working with totally different information visualization instruments—what stood out, what fell brief, and which of them I discovered finest for various use instances. Whether or not you want a device for in-depth evaluation, interactive dashboards, or easy charts for shows, these suggestions will enable you to discover the correct match.

7 finest information visualization software program that helped me inform higher tales in 2025

If there’s one factor I’ve discovered about information visualization in 2025, it’s that having the correct device makes all of the distinction. For me, it was like unlocking a brand new strategy to talk—one thing extra highly effective than simply phrases or spreadsheets. When you’ll be able to visually specific information in a means that folks instantly perceive, it modifications how they react. It turns dry details into insights that spark actual conversations.

At first, I used to be centered on performance. Might the device deal with complicated datasets? Did it provide sufficient chart sorts? However as I received deeper into utilizing them, I noticed it wasn’t nearly options—it was about how intuitive and fascinating the expertise felt, each for me because the creator and people viewing the consequence. If I may construct one thing shortly and nonetheless make it look polished and insightful, that may be a win in my e-book.

What stunned me was how a lot a superb visualization device may affect decision-making. There have been moments when a single well-designed chart helped steer discussions in the correct path just because it clarified the info. It felt empowering to show messy numbers into visuals that informed a compelling story.

How did I discover and consider these finest information visualization instruments?

I took a hands-on strategy to discovering one of the best information visualization instruments, testing every by creating actual visualizations—from fast charts to complicated dashboards. I wished instruments that made the method intuitive with out sacrificing flexibility or design high quality. Whether or not I used to be importing small spreadsheets or massive datasets, I centered on how nicely every device dealt with totally different eventualities.

 

For instruments I had used earlier than, I gave them one other go, this time paying shut consideration to what had improved. Had been they sooner? Extra intuitive? Did they provide new options that really mattered? Some instruments pleasantly stunned me with contemporary improvements, whereas others didn’t deliver a lot new to the desk.

 

I used AI to research person suggestions to enrich my testing from platforms like G2, the place actual customers spotlight what works and what doesn’t. This helped me shortly extract key takeaways and examine instruments primarily based on real-world efficiency and worth. By combining hands-on expertise with AI-driven insights and neighborhood enter, I used to be in a position to assess which instruments finest align with totally different wants and use instances.

My system for choosing one of the best information visualization software program

Discovering the correct information visualization software program isn’t nearly producing charts—it’s about unlocking the tales hidden inside the numbers. For me, it was about discovering instruments that didn’t simply simplify the method however empowered me to see information in new methods. I wished platforms that would bridge the hole between uncooked info and actual understanding, all whereas being intuitive, adaptable, and sensible. Right here’s how I approached evaluating these instruments:

  • Information Integration: A visualization device’s worth lies in its connection with varied information sources, so I made this a key a part of my analysis. I seemed for platforms that simply combine with spreadsheets, databases, cloud storage, and APIs. The instruments I most popular supported real-time syncing, which meant my visualizations routinely up to date at any time when the underlying information modified. This saved me from having to manually refresh every little thing and let me construct dashboards that stayed correct and updated as new information got here in.
  • Customization: Each dataset tells a singular story and inflexible instruments can restrict creativity. I centered on platforms that allowed deep customization of charts, dashboards, and stories. Whether or not it was altering colors, labels, or layouts, I wanted instruments that would adapt to totally different audiences and use instances. Probably the most versatile instruments let me tailor visualizations to suit particular wants, making them extra impactful and fascinating.
  • Templates and Design Help: As somebody and not using a background in design, I discovered templates extremely useful. I most popular instruments that supplied an intensive library of thoughtfully designed templates, particularly once they catered to varied use instances, from clear enterprise shows to vibrant infographics. The platforms that stood out made it simple for me to adapt these templates to totally different datasets or functions, permitting me to create polished visuals with out ranging from scratch.
  • Interactive Displays: Information isn’t static, and I imagine the way in which it’s introduced shouldn’t be both. I seemed for instruments that allow me seamlessly combine charts and graphs into shows so I may create participating, data-driven tales. The platforms I discovered most helpful allowed me to embed visuals into slides whereas conserving them interactive.
  • Visible Illustration of Key Metrics: I wanted instruments to successfully show key efficiency indicators (KPIs) clearly and meaningfully. I centered on how nicely every device reworked uncooked information into visuals, highlighting an important metrics. The instruments that allowed me to customise and showcase KPIs made monitoring efficiency and sharing insights a lot simpler.
  • Price-Effectiveness: Price range constraints are all the time an element for me, so I weighed the worth every device supplied towards its price. I checked out whether or not free or trial variations offered sufficient performance and if premium plans have been definitely worth the value for his or her added options. I particularly appreciated instruments with versatile pricing fashions, as they made scaling simpler with out committing to excessive prices instantly.

After months of analyzing over 15 information visualization software program, I found that not all instruments stay as much as their guarantees. Some dazzled with flashy options however lacked practicality, whereas others supplied stable performance with out the pliability I wanted. It was a means of trial and error and loads of studying, however seven instruments stood out in the long run. These weren’t simply essentially the most useful—they have been those that reworked how information might be understood, shared, and acted upon. 

To qualify for inclusion within the information visualization software program class, a product should:

  • Eat information from quite a lot of sources by file uploads, database querying, and utility connectors
  • Present a visible illustration of key efficiency indicators

*This information has been pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques have been edited for readability.

1. Canva

Canva, the device I assumed was only for creating smooth infographics and attention-grabbing social media posts, turned out to be way more than a primary design app. Initially, I noticed it as a quick-fix resolution after I wanted one thing visually interesting with out diving into complicated design software program. However as I spent extra time with it, I noticed Canva goes past aesthetics—it’s additionally a stable information visualisation platform. Whether or not constructing easy charts or complete data-driven shows, Canva gives a formidable vary of options that make the method simple and pleasurable.

Considered one of my favorite options is Canva’s chart customization. The drag-and-drop interface means I don’t want superior design expertise to create one thing that appears clear and well-crafted. Whether or not it’s a bar chart, line graph, or pie chart, I can effortlessly customise layouts, fonts, and hues to go well with my type or branding. The collaboration characteristic is one other spotlight. My group can soar in, go away suggestions, and refine visuals in actual time, saving us from infinite electronic mail threads and back-and-forth edits.

Canva’s chart editor with customizable bar, line, and pie charts

I additionally love how Canva handles interactive shows. Embedding charts and graphs into slides is seamless, and it helps me inform a transparent, data-driven story throughout conferences or shows. It’s tremendous handy after I need to showcase information in an informative and visually interesting means.

One other factor that stands out is the number of templates obtainable. Whether or not I want a clear bar chart or a extra elaborate infographic, there’s all the time one thing that matches my wants. And for somebody like me, who doesn’t have a background in design, it’s extremely intuitive—no steep studying curve, simply simple, user-friendly instruments.

Even with all its strengths, Canva isn’t with out its drawbacks. One limitation I’ve seen is that whereas it gives a good vary of chart sorts, it falls brief in relation to superior customization for complicated datasets. If I’m working with massive quantities of knowledge or want one thing like a multi-axis chart, I discover myself wishing for extra sturdy choices. 

One other little subject is the restricted export codecs for information visuals. Certain, I can obtain photos and PDFs, however it might be nice to have extra flexibility, like exporting interactive charts or embedding stay information.

Whereas Canva has a beneficiant library of inventory components, I’ve hit just a few paywalls when utilizing premium icons or graphics for infographics. Whereas it’s manageable, it will probably nonetheless be irritating if you want one thing particular, and it’s locked behind a subscription, particularly when you’re on a funds.

What I like about Canva

  • I like how Canva makes the entire design course of so easy and accessible. Whether or not I must whip up a fast chart or design an in depth presentation, every little thing feels simple to make use of. I really like that I don’t want any prior design experience—simply drag, drop, and tweak, and I’m good to go. Plus, having the ability to customise each aspect, from colors to fonts, helps me create one thing that feels really private.
  • Canva’s template library is one other favorite of mine. It’s not simply in regards to the selection; it’s how thoughtfully the templates are designed. Whether or not I want a minimalist type or one thing extra vibrant, I can all the time discover one thing that matches the tone of my mission.

What G2 customers like about Canva:

“The Magic continues with Canva. Really, over the previous 12 months, it has stored upgrading and evolving, bringing ease of use to the subsequent degree on a regular basis! It has develop into an ‘enterprise’ the place any materials or want you’ll be able to consider that can want creativity and an expert look within the quickest time is made obtainable, and also you’re good to go!

I can edit on my laptop and my cellphone amazingly! So Canva is not only for each want however anytime, wherever!

 

Canva Assessment, Patricia C.

What I dislike about Canva:
  • I typically want for extra superior charting choices. Once I’m coping with complicated information, the present chart sorts typically fall brief. I’d like to see choices for dual-axis graphs or different superior visuals that would deal with bigger datasets extra successfully.
  • I don’t just like the restricted export codecs for dynamic content material. Whereas downloading photos and PDFs works for static designs, it might be implausible if I may export interactive charts or embed stay information immediately. This is able to make sharing and updating my work a lot simpler.
What G2 customers dislike about Canva:

“Whereas engaged on a sure mission, the search menu couldn’t permit the person to seek for a sure device/characteristic till navigating to its guardian part, the place we will search subcategories and sure options to make use of.
In sure instances, whereas utilizing Canvas’s free options to finish a mission, there are areas the place most of Canvas’s options are strictly premium, which dishonours its customers. It is a person expertise that permits sure options for use freed from cost.

Canva Assessment, Safi Ok.

2. Looker

Utilizing Looker feels much less like working with a device and extra like stepping right into a well-organized management room in your information. From the second I began utilizing it, I felt I had a direct line to uncover the tales hidden in our numbers. It’s not nearly answering “what occurred” however digging deeper into the “why” and “how.” I’ve discovered myself asking higher questions and having fun with the method of discovering solutions.

The standout for me has been Looker’s dynamic dashboards. I discovered them extremely interactive and versatile. As an illustration, I arrange a mission progress dashboard to drill down from total metrics to particular task-level particulars. This means to filter by classes like mission levels or useful resource allocation gave me a direct grasp of the info. Whilst somebody exploring the device, I may see how such options would profit groups needing readability and element.

Looker dashboard displaying data visualizations and analytics

One other characteristic that stood out throughout my testing was Looker’s integration capabilities. Pulling information from platforms like BigQuery and Snowflake into Looker was seamless. I experimented with combining a number of datasets to create unified views of group productiveness and useful resource allocation. It felt environment friendly and eradicated the necessity to manually sync information between instruments—a characteristic that would save important time for groups working with numerous information sources.

LookML, Looker’s information modelling layer, was each a problem and a revelation. At first, studying LookML was daunting, and I needed to rely closely on tutorials and trial and error. However as I began to grasp it, I noticed how priceless it was for creating constant metrics throughout stories and dashboards. This consistency is especially vital for groups the place standardisation is vital.

Of notice, Looker brings some challenges price addressing. One draw back is that I discovered the restricted number of ready-made templates difficult. I feel having extra starter templates would have made it simpler for me to get began and really feel assured throughout the onboarding course of.

I additionally felt that the vary of visualization choices was considerably slim. I couldn’t discover as many superior chart sorts or design flexibility as I’ve seen in different instruments, which made it tougher for me to create extremely polished shows.

Throughout my testing, I encountered just a few technical points. I seen that filters didn’t all the time work the way in which I anticipated, and dashboards typically didn’t refresh correctly. Whereas these points didn’t occur typically, they have been irritating after I was engaged on one thing vital.

What I like about Looker

  • I cherished how simple it was to create interactive dashboards past static visuals. The power to drill down into particulars, apply filters, and customise views made analyzing information way more insightful and sensible. The flexibleness allowed me to adapt dashboards for various eventualities, whether or not it was monitoring mission timelines or analyzing useful resource allocation.
  • The seamless integration with platforms like BigQuery and Snowflake stood out for me. I mixed datasets from totally different sources to create cohesive views, which I may see as invaluable for groups working with scattered information. The simplicity of connecting these platforms considerably lower down on the effort and time I’d normally spend making ready information.

What G2 customers like about Looker:

“Looker has been transformative for the way we handle and interpret information. It has develop into a device we use weekly, if not every day. It has been central to our information consolidation and centralization course of. We have mixed sources, together with Google Analytics, Search Console, social, and customized spreadsheets, which have utterly modified how we strategy reporting. It has helped us cut back time to generate stories, draw insights, and cut back errors. It was additionally simple to implement and scale. Looker has helped us construct a tradition of data-driven decision-making year-round, giving each group the instruments and insights they should function successfully and effectively. I’ve by no means needed to attain out to buyer help, which tells me the device is doing what it’s presupposed to do.

 

Looker Assessment, Andrea G.

What I dislike about Looker:
  • I discover that constructing dashboards from scratch takes longer than it ought to. Once I wanted to research mission timelines and group workload, I needed to manually arrange information sources, configure charts, and modify layouts earlier than I may even begin drawing insights. With out ready-to-use templates, getting began shortly is a problem, and I find yourself spending an excessive amount of time on setup as a substitute of specializing in the info.
  • I additionally discover the visualization choices limiting. I need extra management over my charts to create polished, professional-looking visuals, however the lack of flexibility makes it troublesome to fine-tune the small print. At instances, I really feel like I’ve to compromise on design as a result of the device doesn’t provide sufficient customization.
What G2 customers dislike about Looker:

“Looker can have a steep studying curve, particularly with its LookML modelling language, which can be difficult for non-technical customers. Its information visualization choices are much less customizable than instruments like Tableau or Energy BI. The reliance on LookML can create bottlenecks for self-service reporting. Looker’s pricing may also be costly, particularly for smaller groups. Efficiency might sluggish with massive datasets, and it lacks some out-of-the-box integrations and collaborative options in different BI instruments.

Looker Assessment, Shubham S.

3. Looker Studio

I discover it thrilling to strive instruments that promise to simplify information chaos, so I made a decision to offer Looker Studio a shot. At first, I wasn’t anticipating a lot past the fundamentals, but it surely stunned me. It wasn’t nearly plugging in numbers and producing charts—it was about uncovering the tales inside the information in a seamless means. For somebody like me, exploring instruments to search out one of the best match, Looker Studio felt like a step in the correct path.

One characteristic that stood out throughout my testing was information transformation. It’s not nearly visualizing information; it’s about shaping it to inform a clearer story. I used some easy calculations to create new metrics immediately in Looker Studio. For instance, I mixed income information with buyer counts to generate a revenue-per-customer metric. Seeing these calculated fields mix seamlessly into the dashboard was satisfying, providing insights I hadn’t initially thought of.

After which there’s conditional formatting. It would seem to be a small characteristic, however for me, it made an enormous distinction when working with massive datasets. I arrange a dashboard the place low-performing metrics are highlighted in crimson and high performers stand out in inexperienced. It’s intuitive and streamlines decision-making, immediately drawing consideration to what issues most.

Looker Studio dashboard showcasing conditional formatting options

Looker Studio impressed me in lots of areas, however I bumped into just a few challenges. The scheduled reporting characteristic was a blended bag. Whereas it’s handy to automate report deliveries, I discovered the formatting of the emailed stories a bit inconsistent. Charts didn’t all the time show as anticipated, which meant additional work to get them presentation-ready.

One other limitation I seen was with the native connectors. Whereas Looker Studio integrates fantastically with Google’s ecosystem, connecting exterior platforms like my CRM required additional effort. I examined a third-party connector to herald my CRM information, and whereas I finally received it to work, the method felt extra difficult than I anticipated.

Whereas the dashboards seemed nice on bigger screens, I discovered the cellular enhancing expertise missing. Viewing stories on a cellphone was high quality, however making edits on the go felt clunky and restricted. This hole appeared stunning for a device that excels in so many areas.

What I like about Looker Studio

  • I cherished how Looker Studio reworked uncooked information into a transparent and fascinating story. The dashboards made complicated insights simple to grasp at a look. Once I was exploring mission timelines, the interactive charts helped me spot patterns I may need missed in a spreadsheet.
  • I cherished how conditional formatting made my information visually participating and simply interpretable. Assigning colours to particular metrics helped me to concentrate on what mattered most. I felt like this characteristic turned rows of numbers right into a story I may shortly perceive and share with others.

What G2 customers like about Looker Studio:

“It’s a device with direct connections to varied frequent database programs like Excel, BigQuery, and so forth., so the ETL course of is totally automated, which could be very useful. As soon as within the software program, it’s easy and gives a variety of knowledge transformations and calculated fields. My favorite side is that it’s so quick, and even when you’re querying dashboards at scale, you should use BI Engine with BigQuery to keep up excessive efficiency.

 

Looker Studio Assessment, Everhard O.

What I dislike about Looker Studio:
  • Though I favored the concept of automating report deliveries, the execution left me underwhelmed. The emailed stories typically had formatting quirks, and a few visuals didn’t render correctly. It added pointless steps to get the stories presentation-ready.
  • I felt restricted when attempting to attach Looker Studio to exterior platforms. Whereas it labored easily with Google instruments, I discovered it troublesome to combine information from my CRM. I needed to depend on a third-party connector, and the method felt extra difficult than wanted.
What G2 customers dislike about Looker Studio:

“What I like least is that for platforms exterior to Google, unbiased cost connectors are sometimes essential. Buyer help for Looker Studio from Google is minimal.

Looker Studio Assessment, Raúl S.

4. MongoDB Atlas

Once I began exploring MongoDB Atlas, it wasn’t an apparent selection for information visualization instruments. I initially considered it as a database platform relatively than a device for visible storytelling. As I dug into its options, I found capabilities that made me rethink its potential for information visualization.

MongoDB Atlas dashboard displaying database metrics

One of many highlights for me was its geospatial capabilities. I labored with some location-based information, and Atlas dealt with it exceptionally nicely. I analyzed buyer distribution and visualized regional efficiency, and the geospatial queries made the method surprisingly intuitive. What I anticipated to be tedious ended up being streamlined, and I discovered artistic methods to symbolize geographic information visually.

One other characteristic I discovered notably helpful was the information federation. I favored having the ability to question information from a number of clusters, cloud storage, and exterior sources as in the event that they have been a part of a single database. This saved me the effort and time of guide information consolidation or organising complicated pipelines.

I additionally explored the real-time efficiency monitoring instruments, that are extremely insightful.  I may see how my queries carried out, pinpoint slowdowns, and make fast changes. This degree of visibility gave me confidence that dashboards relying on stay information would run easily and responsively, even in high-demand eventualities.

Whereas Atlas excels at storing and scaling information, cleansing up previous datasets is a special story. Once I deleted information to release storage, the compaction course of didn’t reclaim as a lot area as I anticipated. This inefficiency was a missed alternative to optimize storage prices, particularly for tasks coping with quickly rising datasets.

Budgeting with Atlas additionally felt tough. Since prices are tied to CPU, reminiscence, and storage utilization, I discovered it onerous to foretell long-term bills. Even small modifications in useful resource utilization led to surprising prices, which made it tougher for me to plan budgets successfully. This unpredictability was a major downside after I evaluated the device’s cost-efficiency.

What I like about MongoDB Atlas

  • I favored how Atlas made working with location-based information intuitive and environment friendly. Once I wanted to map regional tendencies or consider geographic efficiency throughout totally different markets, the geospatial queries dealt with it seamlessly. 
  • I cherished how Atlas unified information from a number of sources with none guide consolidation. Whether or not I used to be working with clusters, cloud storage, or exterior programs, I may question every little thing as if it have been a part of a single database. This made it simpler to create complete dashboards and stories.

What G2 customers like about MongoDB Atlas:

“Extremely environment friendly and scalable database service. MongoDB Atlas is a extremely efficient database net service when it comes to options and integrations. With only a few clicks, you’ll be able to flick through your information collections. It offers us with a really easy interface and numerous integration instruments. additionally, Atlas gives us a variety of monitoring and deployment instruments. You’ll be able to join your codebase to mongodb and might simply fetch, add and carry out different CRUD operations inside seconds.

 

MongoDB Atlas Assessment, Aryan Ok.

What I dislike about MongoDB Atlas:
  • I discovered the storage cleanup course of inefficient. After deleting massive quantities of knowledge, the compaction instruments didn’t reclaim as a lot area as I anticipated, resulting in wasted storage and doubtlessly pointless prices over time.
  • I had bother with the unpredictable pricing mannequin. Since prices fluctuate primarily based on CPU, reminiscence, and storage utilization, it was troublesome to estimate bills and plan budgets successfully.
What G2 customers dislike about MongoDB Atlas:

“Clusters shared with different customers don’t appear to work as effectively as single-user clusters. There’s a time lag, and collaboration options will not be that efficient. I can’t use it if I’ve an excessive amount of querying.

MongoDB Atlas Assessment, Rohit T.

5. SAP Crystal Studies

Should you’ve been trying to find a device that handles information visualization and reporting like a professional, let me inform you about my expertise with SAP Crystal Studies. It has some implausible strengths that stood out to me, but it surely additionally got here with just a few quirks that I needed to navigate and some quirks you’ll need to bear in mind.

The dynamic report customization instantly caught my consideration. Once I added filtering parameters, the stories reworked from static paperwork into interactive experiences.  I may filter by area, product class, or time interval, which showcased how adaptable the device could be for various wants. It felt satisfying to create one thing that would adapt to totally different audiences with out duplicating effort.

One other standout characteristic was the management over format design. I loved tweaking each element, from fonts to spacing, which made the stories look polished {and professional}. Despite the fact that I wasn’t creating stories for an viewers, I may inform this degree of precision could be invaluable in delivering high-quality shows.

SAP Crystal Reports layout designer with formatting and customization options

The integration capabilities have been one other spotlight for me. Pulling information from SQL databases, Excel sheets, and cloud-based instruments was seamless. Once I mixed information from a number of sources, every little thing got here collectively easily, eliminating the necessity for guide consolidation. This made the method sooner and gave me a transparent image of how SAP Crystal Studies may deal with complicated datasets.

Regardless of these strengths, there have been areas the place the device didn’t fairly meet my expectations. The outdated scripting choices typically left me pissed off. The method felt clunky and unintuitive after I tried to customise stories utilizing scripts. Even small modifications took longer than I anticipated, and I discovered myself wishing for a extra fashionable and user-friendly scripting atmosphere.

The restricted automation capabilities additionally stood out as a problem. I attempted organising scheduled report distributions, however the course of felt unnecessarily difficult. As a substitute of automating repetitive duties, I spent extra time managing them manually, making the method inefficient.

One other limitation I confronted was the dearth of real-time collaboration. Once I wanted group members to evaluate or contribute to a report, the lack to work on it concurrently prompted delays. This made the method much less environment friendly, and typically, it led to duplicated efforts, which may have been averted with higher collaboration options.

What I like about SAP Crystal Studies

  • I loved the precision in format management. It gave me confidence that each report I created would look well-structured and visually clear, whether or not for inside use or shows. Once I was attempting to design a quarterly efficiency report, I used to be in a position to fine-tune each visible element, making it really feel able to share straight from the device.
  • I favored how nicely it built-in with numerous information sources. Consolidating info from a number of platforms felt easy and made even complicated tasks manageable. Once I labored on a cross-departmental evaluation, the seamless information integration allowed me to effortlessly mix information from SQL, Excel, and a CRM system.

What G2 customers like about SAP Crystal Studies:

“It is a highly effective report device with a typically counterintuitive design course of, follows a ribbon area strategy
It might report throughout a mess of databases like MS SQL, MySQL, SQLite, and Oracle by way of JDBC, ODBC, ADO, and so forth.
primary reporting is simple, but it surely shortly will get onerous when you strive extra complicated stories
was as soon as broadly used as an embedded reporting device with canned stories.

 

SAP Crystal Studies Assessment, Yassiem D.

What I dislike about SAP Crystal Studies:
  • I struggled with the outdated scripting choices. Once I was attempting so as to add a customized calculation for an information abstract, the scripting course of felt clunky, and I spent far an excessive amount of time troubleshooting.
  • I discovered the dearth of automation capabilities to be a downside. Whereas exploring the device, I examined how weekly group stories might be scheduled and shared, however the course of required an excessive amount of guide effort. I needed to arrange the identical steps repeatedly as a substitute of getting an choice to automate them. It made me notice how a lot time might be saved if there have been higher scheduling and distribution options.
What G2 customers dislike about SAP Crystal Studies:

“There’s a studying curve to utilizing this device to its fullest capabilities, however I may say that about many frequent instruments, reminiscent of SQL queries and Excel. Luckily, there are numerous sources to be taught this, together with Linked In Studying or in-person programs.
A number of the most helpful instruments, reminiscent of creating teams and shifting them into the group’s footers, work nicely, however it’s not very clear to return and know that’s what was performed later.
The device can get behind on some codecs it helps—for instance, as soon as the XLSX format was the popular format, Crystal took a while earlier than it was obtainable as an export, however that was additionally years in the past, and so they could also be higher at it presently.

SAP Crystal Studies Assessment, Melissa O.

6. AgencyAnalytics

AgencyAnalytics is one other information visualization device I explored, and it stood out to me as an ideal selection for businesses and entrepreneurs. Whereas it’s designed with professionals in thoughts, it additionally felt accessible for somebody like me who’s much less skilled with such platforms.

One characteristic that labored nicely for me was the visible dashboard builder. It allowed me to create clear and customised snapshots of efficiency metrics with minimal effort. Utilizing the drag-and-drop widgets felt intuitive, and I used to be in a position to manage information effectively with none pointless complexity.

I additionally discovered the interactive charting instruments extremely useful. Once I labored with these charts, I may discover information dynamically. I cherished how hovering over information factors revealed extra insights, and drilling down into particular segments gave me readability. This characteristic made it simpler for me to establish tendencies and anomalies with out feeling overwhelmed by the small print.

One other characteristic that impressed me was the multi-source information visualization. I used it to tug information from platforms like Google Analytics and social media dashboards. Seeing every little thing in a single cohesive view made an enormous distinction for me. I discovered it notably helpful after I in contrast metrics throughout platforms and received a fuller image of marketing campaign outcomes.

AgencyAnalytics dashboard displaying multi-source data visualizations

Nevertheless, some limitations stood out throughout my exploration. The preset visualization templates have been helpful for fast setups, however I discovered them restrictive after I wished extra artistic management over the format. I typically wished for extra flexibility to design visuals aligned higher with my imaginative and prescient.

One other space I discovered missing was the absence of predictive analytics. Whereas the device dealt with present and historic information nicely, it didn’t provide options for forecasting future tendencies or figuring out rising patterns. Getting access to predictive insights would have added important worth, particularly for long-term planning eventualities.

Lastly, the export choices felt a bit primary. Whereas PDFs and shareable hyperlinks have been useful, I felt that having extra versatile choices, like interactive dashboards or embeddable visuals, would have made sharing information extra participating and impactful.

What I like about AgencyAnalytics

  • I discovered the interactive charts notably participating. Hovering over information factors to disclose extra insights and drilling down into particular particulars allowed me to discover info dynamically. It felt extra participating than static visuals and offered a deeper understanding of the info being introduced.
  • I loved how simply I may pull in information from instruments like Google Analytics and CRM programs. Consolidating metrics from varied sources gave me a clearer view of how totally different campaigns carried out. It eradicated the trouble of switching between instruments and let me concentrate on analyzing the complete context in a single place.

What G2 customers like about AgencyAnalytics:

“What I really like most about AgencyAnalytics is how extremely simple it’s to make use of! The platform will not be solely intuitive but in addition full of priceless insights that make my job a lot less complicated. One of many standout options is how ceaselessly they replace the platform. This ensures that customers like me are all the time knowledgeable and forward of the competitors. It is like having a secret weapon that retains evolving to fulfill my wants. AgencyAnalytics really units the bar excessive for analytics instruments!

 

AgencyAnalytics Assessment, Bhavya J.

What I dislike about AgencyAnalytics:
  • Whereas the preset templates have been useful for fast setups, I discovered them limiting when it comes to customization. There have been moments after I wished extra artistic management over the layouts, however the choices felt restrictive. I really feel including extra flexibility in design would make it simpler to create visuals that align with particular objectives or preferences.
  • As I labored by the platform, I discovered myself wanting forecasting instruments. I favored how nicely it dealt with present and historic information, however I couldn’t assist feeling that one thing was lacking when planning for the longer term. I wished to see projections for tendencies like seasonal site visitors or marketing campaign development, and with out this characteristic, I needed to flip to different instruments to fill the hole.
What G2 customers dislike about AgencyAnalytics:

“Not having all of the options we wish to see is kind of irritating at factors, however the change request system appears efficient, and we’ve got seen updates seem fairly swiftly, which addresses our points. I would nonetheless like to have the ability to provide greater than two locations after the decimal on extra metrics (particularly forex, the place solely having two locations for one thing like CPV can ceaselessly be utterly irrelevant)

AgencyAnalytics Assessment, Pete G.

7. SAP Crystal Server

Getting began with SAP Crystal Server was like opening a toolbox with potentialities. I instantly seen how seamlessly it tackled complicated datasets, turning overwhelming info into clear, actionable insights.

What actually caught my consideration was its means to deal with hierarchical information constructions. This implies I can simply drill down into totally different ranges of knowledge—like beginning with a complete efficiency overview after which zooming into particular classes or variables. It’s a implausible strategy to discover tendencies with out overwhelming myself with info upfront.

SAP Crystal Server displaying group hierarchy structure

One other characteristic that impressed me was the customized formulation and logic I may apply immediately inside stories. Whether or not it’s calculating tendencies throughout timeframes or creating conditional formatting guidelines, the system provides me the instruments so as to add tailor-made analytics without having exterior instruments or coding experience.

I additionally cherished the superior scheduling choices for batch processing. It permits me to configure complicated schedules for producing and distributing a number of stories to totally different groups or stakeholders. I may even set triggers primarily based on particular information modifications, which provides an entire new layer of automation and comfort.

Nevertheless, sure issues held it again. Whereas it does provide sturdy performance, I feel the interface may use a extra fashionable design—it feels a bit dated in comparison with opponents. It’s not that the interface is tough to make use of, but it surely doesn’t have the smooth, intuitive really feel I’ve come to anticipate from newer instruments.

I additionally discovered that integrating it with cloud-based programs wasn’t as seamless as I’d like. Once I was setting it up with newer SaaS platforms, I seen it required additional configuration steps, which felt unnecessarily difficult. These hurdles made the method really feel much less fluid than it needs to be for a device with a lot potential. And, as with many enterprise-level options, the pricing is likely to be a problem, particularly when you’re working with a tighter funds.

What I like about SAP Crystal Server

  • I really like how SAP Crystal Server provides me a way of management over my information. I genuinely benefit from the flexibility it gives for tailoring stories to suit distinctive wants—whether or not formatting layouts to match particular themes or including calculated fields that replicate deeper insights. 
  • I additionally get pleasure from how structured it retains every little thing, with folders and classes that assist me handle and discover stories effortlessly. It’s small, but it surely saves a lot time after I must revisit one thing.

What G2 customers like about SAP Crystal Server:

“SAP Crystal Server is one of the best device for information visualization and reporting. Its finest characteristic is its means to deal with massive datasets. Even complicated information could be analyzed, and stories are generated optimistically. Multi-language help is offered for versatile working. It’s an easy-to-use utility with a pleasant UI.

 

SAP Crystal Server Assessment, Mugdha R.

What I dislike about SAP Crystal Studies:
  • What I discover much less interesting about SAP Crystal Server is how inflexible some workflows really feel. There have been moments after I wished for drag-and-drop simplicity or shortcuts to streamline repetitive duties, however the device appeared to prioritize construction over fluidity.
  • One space the place I feel SAP Crystal Server may enhance is the visible attraction of its charts and graphs. Whereas they carry out reliably and current information clearly, they lack the interactive options and polished design that may make shows extra participating and visually spectacular.
What G2 customers dislike about SAP Crystal Server:

“As such, the SAP Crystal Server has no useful downside. The one draw back is that it requires an improve to entry additional options like instantaneous cellular entry, dashboards, or scheduled notifications.

SAP Crystal Server Assessment, Rishabh J.

Click to chat with G2s Monty-AI

Information visualization software program: Continuously requested questions (FAQs)

1. Which software program is finest for information visualization?

Primarily based on my hands-on testing, one of the best software program will depend on your particular wants. Canva is implausible for creating fast, visually interesting designs, whereas Looker and Looker Studio are higher for in-depth evaluation and interactive dashboards. MongoDB Atlas is my high decide when you’re working with massive, complicated datasets.

2. What’s the finest information visualization device for rookies?

For rookies, I’d suggest Canva. Its drag-and-drop interface and wide selection of templates make it extremely simple to make use of, even and not using a design background. It’s excellent for creating easy but polished visuals.

3. What are the highest free information visualization instruments?

Primarily based on my exams, Looker Studio and Canva are the highest free instruments. Looker Studio is ideal for interactive dashboards, whereas Canva gives simple customization and templates for primary information visualizations.

4. What’s the best information visualization software program to make use of?

For me, Canva takes the highest spot for ease of use. Its intuitive interface, pre-designed templates, and adaptability make it a breeze to create visuals, even on a decent deadline.

5. Which information visualization instruments are hottest in 2025?

Primarily based on my analysis, Canva, Looker, Looker Studio, MongoDB Atlas, SAP Crystal Studies, and AgencyAnalytics are among the many hottest instruments in 2025.

6. What are one of the best instruments for creating interactive dashboards?

I’ve had nice success with Looker and Looker Studio for interactive dashboards. Looker Studio integrates seamlessly with Google instruments, and Looker gives dynamic filtering and drill-down choices that make exploring information easy.

7. Which device is finest for visualizing massive datasets?

For giant datasets, MongoDB Atlas is my best choice. Its geospatial capabilities and talent to unify information from a number of sources make it extremely highly effective.

8. What’s the most inexpensive information visualization software program?

If affordability is your precedence, Canva and Looker Studio are wonderful choices. Each provide sturdy free variations, and I’ve discovered them excellent for small tasks or startups on a funds.

9. Which software program is finest for advertising analytics dashboards?

In terms of advertising analytics, AgencyAnalytics has been my favourite. It pulls in information from platforms like Google Analytics and social media, giving me a transparent view of marketing campaign efficiency in a single place.

10. What instruments are finest for real-time information visualization?

Looker and MongoDB Atlas excel in real-time information visualization. I’ve used each to construct dashboards that replace stay, which is invaluable for monitoring ongoing metrics.

From messy information to clear wins

Exploring information visualization instruments taught me one key lesson: the correct device isn’t nearly options—it’s about affect. It’s not sufficient to create visually interesting charts or dashboards; the magic occurs when these visuals encourage motion and readability.

Every device on my record had one thing distinctive to supply. Canva made designing easy, approachable, and collaborative. Looker Studio confirmed me how interactivity may utterly change how information is known. MongoDB Atlas proved how important it’s to handle complexity with out shedding precision. However no single device may do all of it—each selection trusted the story I wished to inform and the viewers I wanted to achieve.

If I’ve discovered something, it’s that simplicity is commonly essentially the most highly effective characteristic. Flashy visuals and infinite choices imply nothing in the event that they don’t join with the people who find themselves viewing them. device doesn’t simply make information look good—it makes it significant, relatable, and unimaginable to disregard.

Here is my strategy for anybody determining which device to choose: begin with the top in thoughts. Take into account what you’re attempting to speak and who wants to listen to it. Match the device to your goal, not simply the pattern. And don’t be afraid to check, tweak, and experiment—it’s the one means to determine what works.
Information is greater than numbers; it’s the language of perception. And with the correct instruments, you could be fluent.

 



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