Wednesday, July 23, 2025

I Discovered the 7 Greatest Information Visualization Software program for 2025


I’ve at all times been fascinated by how the appropriate visuals can flip advanced info into one thing simple to know. Whether or not in shows, reviews, or dashboards, a well-designed chart could make information extra partaking 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 quick—some lacked customization, and others didn’t successfully spotlight key insights. So, my mentor inspired me to discover options to discover a higher match.

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

Finally, I discovered the appropriate instruments to assist me full my task, turning uncooked information into a transparent, partaking, and significant narrative. That have reshaped how I take into consideration information—selecting the best visualization device isn’t nearly options; it’s about making info actually accessible and impactful.

On this article, I’ll share my expertise working with totally different information visualization instruments—what stood out, what fell quick, and which of them I discovered greatest 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 aid you discover the appropriate match.

7 greatest 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 appropriate device makes all of the distinction. For me, it was like unlocking a brand new approach to talk—one thing extra highly effective than simply phrases or spreadsheets. When you possibly can visually categorical information in a approach that individuals instantly perceive, it adjustments how they react. It turns dry information into insights that spark actual conversations.

At first, I used to be centered on performance. Might the device deal with advanced datasets? Did it provide sufficient chart varieties? However as I received deeper into utilizing them, I spotted 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 might construct one thing rapidly and nonetheless make it look polished and insightful, that might be a win in my ebook.

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

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

I took a hands-on method to discovering one of the best information visualization instruments, testing every by creating actual visualizations—from fast charts to advanced 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 giant datasets, I centered on how effectively 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 recent improvements, whereas others didn’t deliver a lot new to the desk.

 

I used AI to investigate consumer suggestions to enrich my testing from platforms like G2, the place actual customers spotlight what works and what doesn’t. This helped me rapidly extract key takeaways and examine instruments based mostly on real-world efficiency and worth. By combining hands-on expertise with AI-driven insights and group enter, I used to be capable of assess which instruments greatest align with totally different wants and use instances.

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

Discovering the appropriate 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 regarded 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 every time the underlying information modified. This saved me from having to manually refresh all the things 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 reviews. 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 after they catered to numerous 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 Shows: Information isn’t static, and I imagine the best way it’s offered shouldn’t be both. I regarded for instruments that allow me seamlessly combine charts and graphs into shows so I might create partaking, data-driven tales. The platforms I discovered most helpful allowed me to embed visuals into slides whereas preserving them interactive.
  • Visible Illustration of Key Metrics: I wanted instruments to successfully show key efficiency indicators (KPIs) clearly and meaningfully. I centered on how effectively every device remodeled 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.
  • Value-Effectiveness: Finances constraints are at all times an element for me, so I weighed the worth every device supplied in opposition to its price. I checked out whether or not free or trial variations supplied sufficient performance and if premium plans have been definitely worth the worth 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 flexibleness I wanted. It was a means of trial and error and loads of studying, however seven instruments stood out ultimately. These weren’t simply probably the most useful—they have been those that remodeled how information may very well 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 means of file uploads, database querying, and software connectors
  • Present a visible illustration of key efficiency indicators

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

1. Canva

Canva, the device I believed was only for creating modern 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 once I wanted one thing visually interesting with out diving into advanced design software program. However as I spent extra time with it, I spotted Canva goes past aesthetics—it’s additionally a stable information visualisation platform. Whether or not constructing easy charts or complete data-driven shows, Canva provides a formidable vary of options that make the method simple and fulfilling.

One in every 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 colors to go well with my model or branding. The collaboration function is one other spotlight. My crew can soar in, go away suggestions, and refine visuals in actual time, saving us from infinite electronic mail threads and back-and-forth edits.

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 once I wish to showcase information in an informative and visually interesting approach.

One other factor that stands out is the number of templates out there. Whether or not I want a clear bar chart or a extra elaborate infographic, there’s at all times 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 easy, user-friendly instruments.

Even with all its strengths, Canva isn’t with out its drawbacks. One limitation I’ve observed is that whereas it provides a good vary of chart varieties, it falls quick in the case of superior customization for advanced datasets. If I’m working with giant quantities of information or want one thing like a multi-axis chart, I discover myself wishing for extra sturdy choices. 

One other little situation is the restricted export codecs for information visuals. Certain, I can obtain pictures and PDFs, however it will 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 a number of paywalls when utilizing premium icons or graphics for infographics. Whereas it’s manageable, it may nonetheless be irritating if you want one thing particular, and it’s locked behind a subscription, particularly for those who’re on a finances.

What I like about Canva

  • I like how Canva makes the entire design course of so clean and accessible. Whether or not I have to whip up a fast chart or design an in depth presentation, all the things 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, with the ability to customise each aspect, from colors to fonts, helps me create one thing that feels actually private.
  • Canva’s template library is one other favorite of mine. It’s not simply concerning the selection; it’s how thoughtfully the templates are designed. Whether or not I want a minimalist model or one thing extra vibrant, I can at all times discover one thing that matches the tone of my venture.

What G2 customers like about Canva:

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

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

 

Canva Overview, Patricia C.

What I dislike about Canva:
  • I usually want for extra superior charting choices. After I’m coping with advanced information, the present chart varieties typically fall quick. 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 pictures and PDFs works for static designs, it will be improbable if I might export interactive charts or embed stay information straight. This could make sharing and updating my work a lot simpler.
What G2 customers dislike about Canva:

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

Canva Overview, Safi Okay.

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 example, I arrange a venture progress dashboard to drill down from total metrics to particular task-level particulars. This capability to filter by classes like venture phases or useful resource allocation gave me an instantaneous grasp of the info. At the same time as somebody exploring the device, I might see how such options would profit groups needing readability and element.

Looker dashboard displaying data visualizations and analytics

One other function 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 crew productiveness and useful resource allocation. It felt environment friendly and eradicated the necessity to manually sync information between instruments—a function that would save vital time for groups working with various 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 know it, I spotted how priceless it was for creating constant metrics throughout reviews and dashboards. This consistency is especially vital for groups the place standardisation is essential.

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

I additionally felt that the vary of visualization choices was considerably slender. I couldn’t discover as many superior chart varieties 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 a number of technical points. I observed that filters didn’t at all times work the best way I anticipated, and dashboards typically did not refresh correctly. Whereas these points didn’t occur usually, they have been irritating once 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 venture 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 might see as invaluable for groups working with scattered information. The simplicity of connecting these platforms considerably minimize down on the effort and time I’d often spend getting ready information.

What G2 customers like about Looker:

“Looker has been transformative for a way we handle and interpret information. It has grow to be 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 method reporting. It has helped us cut back time to generate reviews, 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 crew the instruments and insights they should function successfully and effectively. I’ve by no means needed to attain out to buyer assist, which tells me the device is doing what it’s imagined to do.

 

Looker Overview, Andrea G.

What I dislike about Looker:
  • I discover that constructing dashboards from scratch takes longer than it ought to. After I wanted to investigate venture timelines and crew workload, I needed to manually arrange information sources, configure charts, and alter layouts earlier than I might even begin drawing insights. With out ready-to-use templates, getting began rapidly is a problem, and I find yourself spending an excessive amount of time on setup as an alternative of specializing in the info.
  • I additionally discover the visualization choices limiting. I would like extra management over my charts to create polished, professional-looking visuals, however the lack of flexibility makes it tough 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 could gradual with giant datasets, and it lacks some out-of-the-box integrations and collaborative options in different BI instruments.

Looker Overview, Shubham S.

3. Looker Studio

I discover it thrilling to attempt instruments that promise to simplify information chaos, so I made a decision to provide 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 approach. For somebody like me, exploring instruments to seek out one of the best match, Looker Studio felt like a step in the appropriate route.

One function 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 straight 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-about.

After which there’s conditional formatting. It’d look like a small function, however for me, it made a giant distinction when working with giant datasets. I arrange a dashboard the place low-performing metrics are highlighted in purple and prime 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 a number of challenges. The scheduled reporting function was a combined bag. Whereas it’s handy to automate report deliveries, I discovered the formatting of the emailed reviews a bit inconsistent. Charts didn’t at all times show as anticipated, which meant further work to get them presentation-ready.

One other limitation I observed was with the native connectors. Whereas Looker Studio integrates superbly with Google’s ecosystem, connecting exterior platforms like my CRM required further effort. I examined a third-party connector to usher in my CRM information, and whereas I ultimately received it to work, the method felt extra sophisticated than I anticipated.

Whereas the dashboards regarded nice on bigger screens, I discovered the cell enhancing expertise missing. Viewing reviews on a telephone was wonderful, however making edits on the go felt clunky and restricted. This hole appeared shocking for a device that excels in so many areas.

What I like about Looker Studio

  • I cherished how Looker Studio remodeled uncooked information into a transparent and fascinating story. The dashboards made advanced insights simple to know at a look. After I was exploring venture timelines, the interactive charts helped me spot patterns I may need missed in a spreadsheet.
  • I cherished how conditional formatting made my information visually partaking and simply interpretable. Assigning colours to particular metrics helped me to give attention to what mattered most. I felt like this function turned rows of numbers right into a story I might rapidly perceive and share with others.

What G2 customers like about Looker Studio:

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

 

Looker Studio Overview, Everhard O.

What I dislike about Looker Studio:
  • Though I appreciated the concept of automating report deliveries, the execution left me underwhelmed. The emailed reviews usually had formatting quirks, and a few visuals didn’t render correctly. It added pointless steps to get the reviews presentation-ready.
  • I felt restricted when attempting to attach Looker Studio to exterior platforms. Whereas it labored easily with Google instruments, I discovered it tough to combine information from my CRM. I needed to depend on a third-party connector, and the method felt extra sophisticated 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 vital. Buyer assist for Looker Studio from Google is minimal.

Looker Studio Overview, Raúl S.

4. MongoDB Atlas

After I began exploring MongoDB Atlas, it wasn’t an apparent selection for information visualization instruments. I initially considered it as a database platform fairly 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 effectively. 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 signify geographic information visually.

One other function I discovered significantly helpful was the information federation. I appreciated with 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 establishing advanced pipelines.

I additionally explored the real-time efficiency monitoring instruments, that are extremely insightful.  I might see how my queries carried out, pinpoint slowdowns, and make fast changes. This stage 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 outdated datasets is a unique story. After I deleted information to release storage, the compaction course of didn’t reclaim as a lot house 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 difficult. Since prices are tied to CPU, reminiscence, and storage utilization, I discovered it exhausting to foretell long-term bills. Even small adjustments in useful resource utilization led to surprising prices, which made it tougher for me to plan budgets successfully. This unpredictability was a big disadvantage once I evaluated the device’s cost-efficiency.

What I like about MongoDB Atlas

  • I appreciated how Atlas made working with location-based information intuitive and environment friendly. After 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 might question all the things as if it have been a part of a single database. This made it simpler to create complete dashboards and reviews.

What G2 customers like about MongoDB Atlas:

“Extremely environment friendly and scalable database service. MongoDB Atlas is a extremely efficient database internet service by way of options and integrations. With just some clicks, you possibly can flick through your information collections. It supplies us with a really clean interface and lots of integration instruments. additionally, Atlas provides us a variety of monitoring and deployment instruments. You may join your codebase to mongodb and might simply fetch, add and carry out different CRUD operations inside seconds.

 

MongoDB Atlas Overview, Aryan Okay.

What I dislike about MongoDB Atlas:
  • I discovered the storage cleanup course of inefficient. After deleting giant quantities of information, the compaction instruments didn’t reclaim as a lot house as I anticipated, resulting in wasted storage and doubtlessly pointless prices over time.
  • I had hassle with the unpredictable pricing mannequin. Since prices fluctuate based mostly on CPU, reminiscence, and storage utilization, it was tough 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 should not that efficient. I can not use it if I’ve an excessive amount of querying.

MongoDB Atlas Overview, Rohit T.

5. SAP Crystal Stories

For those who’ve been looking for a device that handles information visualization and reporting like a professional, let me let you know about my expertise with SAP Crystal Stories. It has some improbable strengths that stood out to me, but it surely additionally got here with a number of quirks that I needed to navigate and some quirks you’ll need to bear in mind.

The dynamic report customization instantly caught my consideration. After I added filtering parameters, the reviews remodeled from static paperwork into interactive experiences.  I might filter by area, product class, or time interval, which showcased how adaptable the device may 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 function was the management over structure design. I loved tweaking each element, from fonts to spacing, which made the reviews look polished {and professional}. Despite the fact that I wasn’t creating reviews for an viewers, I might inform this stage of precision can 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. After I mixed information from a number of sources, all the things 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 Stories might deal with advanced datasets.

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

The restricted automation capabilities additionally stood out as a problem. I attempted establishing scheduled report distributions, however the course of felt unnecessarily sophisticated. 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 shortage of real-time collaboration. After I wanted crew members to evaluation or contribute to a report, the shortcoming to work on it concurrently induced delays. This made the method much less environment friendly, and typically, it led to duplicated efforts, which might have been prevented with higher collaboration options.

What I like about SAP Crystal Stories

  • I loved the precision in structure management. It gave me confidence that each report I created would look well-structured and visually clear, whether or not for inner use or shows. After I was attempting to design a quarterly efficiency report, I used to be capable of fine-tune each visible element, making it really feel able to share straight from the device.
  • I appreciated how effectively it built-in with various information sources. Consolidating info from a number of platforms felt easy and made even advanced tasks manageable. After 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 Stories:

“It is a highly effective report device with a typically counterintuitive design course of, follows a ribbon area method
It could possibly report throughout a large number of databases like MS SQL, MySQL, SQLite, and Oracle by way of JDBC, ODBC, ADO, and so on.
primary reporting is simple, but it surely rapidly will get exhausting when you attempt extra advanced reviews
was as soon as broadly used as an embedded reporting device with canned reviews.

 

SAP Crystal Stories Overview, Yassiem D.

What I dislike about SAP Crystal Stories:
  • I struggled with the outdated scripting choices. After I was attempting so as to add a customized calculation for a knowledge abstract, the scripting course of felt clunky, and I spent far an excessive amount of time troubleshooting.
  • I discovered the shortage of automation capabilities to be a disadvantage. Whereas exploring the device, I examined how weekly crew reviews may very well be scheduled and shared, however the course of required an excessive amount of guide effort. I needed to arrange the identical steps repeatedly as an alternative of getting an choice to automate them. It made me understand how a lot time may very well be saved if there have been higher scheduling and distribution options.
What G2 customers dislike about SAP Crystal Stories:

“There’s a studying curve to utilizing this device to its fullest capabilities, however I might say that about many widespread instruments, corresponding to SQL queries and Excel. Luckily, there are various sources to be taught this, together with Linked In Studying or in-person programs.
A number of the most helpful instruments, corresponding to creating teams and transferring them into the group’s footers, work effectively, however it isn’t very clear to return and know that’s what was achieved 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 out there as an export, however that was additionally years in the past, they usually could also be higher at it at present.

SAP Crystal Stories Overview, Melissa O.

6. AgencyAnalytics

AgencyAnalytics is one other information visualization device I explored, and it stood out to me as an important 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 function that labored effectively 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 capable of arrange information effectively with none pointless complexity.

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

One other function that impressed me was the multi-source information visualization. I used it to drag information from platforms like Google Analytics and social media dashboards. Seeing all the things in a single cohesive view made a giant distinction for me. I discovered it significantly helpful once I in contrast metrics throughout platforms and received a fuller image of marketing campaign outcomes.

AgencyAnalytics dashboard displaying multi-source data visualizations

Nonetheless, some limitations stood out throughout my exploration. The preset visualization templates have been helpful for fast setups, however I discovered them restrictive once I wished extra artistic management over the structure. I usually 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 effectively, it didn’t provide options for forecasting future tendencies or figuring out rising patterns. Getting access to predictive insights would have added vital 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 partaking and impactful.

What I like about AgencyAnalytics

  • I discovered the interactive charts significantly partaking. Hovering over information factors to disclose extra insights and drilling down into particular particulars allowed me to discover info dynamically. It felt extra partaking than static visuals and supplied a deeper understanding of the info being offered.
  • I loved how simply I might 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 give attention to 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 is just not solely intuitive but in addition full of priceless insights that make my job a lot easier. One of many standout options is how continuously they replace the platform. This ensures that customers like me are at all times knowledgeable and forward of the competitors. It is like having a secret weapon that retains evolving to fulfill my wants. AgencyAnalytics actually units the bar excessive for analytics instruments!

 

AgencyAnalytics Overview, Bhavya J.

What I dislike about AgencyAnalytics:
  • Whereas the preset templates have been useful for fast setups, I discovered them limiting by way of customization. There have been moments once 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 means of the platform, I discovered myself wanting forecasting instruments. I appreciated how effectively 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 visitors or marketing campaign progress, and with out this function, 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 sort of irritating at factors, however the change request system appears efficient, and now we have 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 foreign money, the place solely having two locations for one thing like CPV can continuously be utterly irrelevant)

AgencyAnalytics Overview, Pete G.

7. SAP Crystal Server

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

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

SAP Crystal Server displaying group hierarchy structure

One other function that impressed me was the customized formulation and logic I might apply straight inside reviews. Whether or not it’s calculating tendencies throughout timeframes or creating conditional formatting guidelines, the system offers me the instruments so as to add tailor-made analytics while not having exterior instruments or coding experience.

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

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

I additionally discovered that integrating it with cloud-based programs wasn’t as seamless as I’d like. After I was setting it up with newer SaaS platforms, I observed it required further configuration steps, which felt unnecessarily sophisticated. These hurdles made the method really feel much less fluid than it must be for a device with a lot potential. And, as with many enterprise-level options, the pricing is perhaps a problem, particularly for those who’re working with a tighter finances.

What I like about SAP Crystal Server

  • I really like how SAP Crystal Server offers me a way of management over my information. I genuinely benefit from the flexibility it provides for tailoring reviews to suit distinctive wants—whether or not formatting layouts to match particular themes or including calculated fields that mirror deeper insights. 
  • I additionally take pleasure in how structured it retains all the things, with folders and classes that assist me handle and discover reviews effortlessly. It’s small, but it surely saves a lot time once I have to 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 greatest function is its capability to deal with giant datasets. Even advanced information may be analyzed, and reviews are generated optimistically. Multi-language assist is accessible for versatile working. It’s an easy-to-use software with a pleasant UI.

 

SAP Crystal Server Overview, Mugdha R.

What I dislike about SAP Crystal Stories:
  • What I discover much less interesting about SAP Crystal Server is how inflexible some workflows really feel. There have been moments once 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 believe SAP Crystal Server might enhance is the visible enchantment of its charts and graphs. Whereas they carry out reliably and current information clearly, they lack the interactive options and polished design that might make shows extra partaking and visually spectacular.
What G2 customers dislike about SAP Crystal Server:

“As such, the SAP Crystal Server has no useful disadvantage. The one draw back is that it requires an improve to entry further options like on the spot cell entry, dashboards, or scheduled notifications.

SAP Crystal Server Overview, Rishabh J.

Click to chat with G2s Monty-AI

Information visualization software program: Steadily requested questions (FAQs)

1. Which software program is greatest for information visualization?

Based mostly on my hands-on testing, one of the best software program will depend on your particular wants. Canva is improbable for creating fast, visually interesting designs, whereas Looker and Looker Studio are higher for in-depth evaluation and interactive dashboards. MongoDB Atlas is my prime choose for those who’re working with giant, advanced datasets.

2. What’s the greatest information visualization device for newcomers?

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

3. What are the highest free information visualization instruments?

Based mostly on my checks, Looker Studio and Canva are the highest free instruments. Looker Studio is ideal for interactive dashboards, whereas Canva provides 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 good deadline.

5. Which information visualization instruments are hottest in 2025?

Based mostly on my analysis, Canva, Looker, Looker Studio, MongoDB Atlas, SAP Crystal Stories, 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 provides dynamic filtering and drill-down choices that make exploring information easy.

7. Which device is greatest for visualizing giant datasets?

For big 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 good for small tasks or startups on a finances.

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

In relation to 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 greatest 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 appropriate 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 listing had one thing distinctive to supply. Canva made designing easy, approachable, and collaborative. Looker Studio confirmed me how interactivity might utterly change how information is known. MongoDB Atlas proved how important it’s to handle complexity with out dropping precision. However no single device might 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 usually probably the most highly effective function. Flashy visuals and infinite choices imply nothing in the event that they don’t join with the people who find themselves viewing them. A very good device doesn’t simply make information look good—it makes it significant, relatable, and not possible to disregard.

This is my method for anybody determining which device to choose: begin with the top in thoughts. Think about what you’re attempting to speak and who wants to listen to it. Match the device to your objective, not simply the development. And don’t be afraid to check, tweak, and experiment—it’s the one approach to determine what works.
Information is greater than numbers; it’s the language of perception. And with the appropriate instruments, you may be fluent.

 



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