I Discovered the 7 Greatest Information Visualization Software program for 2025

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

As a part of this system, my mentor assigned me to create a compelling knowledge 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 alternate options to discover a higher match.

That’s after I began researching the finest knowledge visualization software program, in search of instruments that might not solely construct charts but additionally improve storytelling and engagement. As I examined totally different instruments, I shortly noticed how a lot of a distinction the precise platform makes. Some had been feature-rich however overly complicated, whereas others had been simple to make use of however lacked depth. The perfect ones struck a steadiness between usability, customization, and storytelling.

Ultimately, I discovered the precise instruments to assist me full my project, turning uncooked knowledge into a transparent, participating, and significant narrative. That have reshaped how I take into consideration knowledge—selecting the best visualization instrument 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 knowledge visualization instruments—what stood out, what fell quick, and which of them I discovered finest for various use circumstances. Whether or not you want a instrument for in-depth evaluation, interactive dashboards, or easy charts for displays, these suggestions will enable you discover the precise match.

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

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

At first, I used to be centered on performance. Might the instrument deal with complicated datasets? Did it provide sufficient chart varieties? However as I acquired deeper into utilizing them, I spotted it wasn’t nearly options—it was about how intuitive and interesting the expertise felt, each for me because the creator and people viewing the end result. If I may construct one thing shortly and nonetheless make it look polished and insightful, that may be a win in my guide.

What shocked me was how a lot a great visualization instrument may affect decision-making. There have been moments when a single well-designed chart helped steer discussions in the precise route 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 knowledge visualization instruments?

I took a hands-on strategy to discovering the very best knowledge 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 instrument dealt with totally different situations.

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

I used AI to investigate person suggestions to enhance 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 evaluate instruments primarily based on real-world efficiency and worth. By combining hands-on expertise with AI-driven insights and group enter, I used to be in a position to assess which instruments finest align with totally different wants and use circumstances.

My components for choosing the very best knowledge visualization software program

Discovering the precise knowledge 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 knowledge in new methods. I wished platforms that might 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 instrument’s worth lies in its connection with varied knowledge 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 robotically up to date at any time when the underlying knowledge modified. This saved me from having to manually refresh all the pieces and let me construct dashboards that stayed correct and updated as new knowledge got here in.
  • Customization: Each dataset tells a novel story and inflexible instruments can restrict creativity. I centered on platforms that allowed deep customization of charts, dashboards, and experiences. Whether or not it was altering colors, labels, or layouts, I wanted instruments that might adapt to totally different audiences and use circumstances. Essentially the most versatile instruments let me tailor visualizations to suit particular wants, making them extra impactful and interesting.
  • Templates and Design Help: As somebody with out a background in design, I discovered templates extremely useful. I most popular instruments that provided an in depth library of thoughtfully designed templates, particularly once they catered to numerous use circumstances, from clear enterprise displays 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 consider the way in which it’s offered shouldn’t be both. I regarded for instruments that permit me seamlessly combine charts and graphs into displays so I may create participating, 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 nicely every instrument reworked uncooked knowledge into visuals, highlighting crucial metrics. The instruments that allowed me to customise and showcase KPIs made monitoring efficiency and sharing insights a lot simpler.
  • Value-Effectiveness: Funds constraints are at all times an element for me, so I weighed the worth every instrument provided towards its price. I checked out whether or not free or trial variations supplied sufficient performance and if premium plans had been well 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 knowledge 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 provided stable performance with out the pliability I wanted. It was a strategy of trial and error and loads of studying, however seven instruments stood out ultimately. These weren’t simply essentially the most purposeful—they had been those that reworked how knowledge could possibly be understood, shared, and acted upon.

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

  • Eat knowledge from a wide range of sources via file uploads, database querying, and software connectors
  • Present a visible illustration of key efficiency indicators

*This knowledge has been pulled from G2 in 2025. Some opinions have been edited for readability.

1. Canva

Canva, the instrument I believed was only for creating glossy infographics and crowd pleasing social media posts, turned out to be far 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 spotted Canva goes past aesthetics—it’s additionally a stable knowledge visualisation platform. Whether or not constructing easy charts or complete data-driven displays, Canva gives a powerful vary of options that make the method simple and fulfilling.

Considered one of my favorite options is Canva’s chart customization. The drag-and-drop interface means I don’t want superior design abilities 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 type or branding. The collaboration function is one other spotlight. My group can bounce in, go away suggestions, and refine visuals in actual time, saving us from infinite e mail threads and back-and-forth edits.

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

One other factor that stands out is the number of templatesout there. Whether or not I would like 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 gives a good vary of chart varieties, it falls quick on the subject of superior customization for complicated datasets. If I’m working with massive quantities of information 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 knowledge visuals. Certain, I can obtain photographs and PDFs, however it might be nice to have extra flexibility, like exporting interactive charts or embedding stay knowledge.

Whereas Canva has a beneficiant library of inventory parts, I’ve hit a couple of paywalls when utilizing premium icons or graphics for infographics. Whereas it’s manageable, it could nonetheless be irritating once you want one thing particular, and it’s locked behind a subscription, particularly if you happen to’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 must whip up a fast chart or design an in depth presentation, all the pieces 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 factor, 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 would like a minimalist type or one thing extra vibrant, I can at all times discover one thing that matches the tone of my undertaking.

What G2 customers like about Canva:

“The Magic continues with Canva. Really, over the previous yr, it has stored upgrading and evolving, bringing ease of use to the following stage on a regular basis! It has turn into an ‘enterprise’ the place any materials or want you possibly can consider that can 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 cellphone amazingly! So Canva is not only for each want however anytime, anyplace!

Canva Assessment, Patricia C.

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

“Whereas engaged on a sure undertaking, the search menu couldn’t enable the person to seek for a sure instrument/function till navigating to its mum or dad part, the place we are able to search subcategories and sure options to make use of.
In sure circumstances, whereas utilizing Canvas’s free options to finish a undertaking, 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 instrument and extra like stepping right into a well-organized management room to your knowledge. 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 undertaking progress dashboard to drill down from total metrics to particular task-level particulars. This capacity to filter by classes like undertaking levels or useful resource allocation gave me a direct grasp of the info. At the same time as somebody exploring the instrument, I may 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 knowledge 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 knowledge between instruments—a function that might save vital time for groups working with various knowledge sources.

LookML, Looker’s knowledge 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 spotted how worthwhile it was for creating constant metrics throughout experiences and dashboards. This consistency is especially vital for groups the place standardisation is vital.

Of be aware, Looker brings some challenges price addressing. One draw back is that I discovered the restricted collection 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 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 displays.

Throughout my testing, I encountered a couple of technical points. I observed that filters didn’t at all times work the way in which I anticipated, and dashboards typically did not refresh correctly. Whereas these points didn’t occur usually, they had 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 knowledge far more insightful and sensible. The pliability allowed me to adapt dashboards for various situations, whether or not it was monitoring undertaking 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 knowledge. The simplicity of connecting these platforms considerably lower down on the effort and time I’d normally spend getting ready knowledge.

What G2 customers like about Looker:

“Looker has been transformative for a way we handle and interpret knowledge. It has turn into a instrument we use weekly, if not every day. It has been central to our knowledge 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 experiences, 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 assist, which tells me the instrument is doing what it’s imagined to do.

Looker Assessment, 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 undertaking timelines and group workload, I needed to manually arrange knowledge 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 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 instrument 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 knowledge 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 will also be costly, particularly for smaller groups. Efficiency might gradual 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 attempt instruments that promise to simplify knowledge chaos, so I made a decision to present Looker Studio a shot. At first, I wasn’t anticipating a lot past the fundamentals, but it surely shocked me. It wasn’t nearly plugging in numbers and producing charts—it was about uncovering the tales inside the knowledge in a seamless means. For somebody like me, exploring instruments to seek out the very best match, Looker Studio felt like a step in the precise route.

One function that stood out throughout my testing was knowledge transformation. It’s not nearly visualizing knowledge; it’s about shaping it to inform a clearer story. I used some easy calculations to create new metrics instantly in Looker Studio. For instance, I mixed income knowledge 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’d look like a small function, however for me, it made a giant 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 a couple of challenges. The scheduled reporting function was a blended bag. Whereas it’s handy to automate report deliveries, I discovered the formatting of the emailed experiences 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 CRMrequired further effort. I examined a third-party connector to herald my CRM knowledge, and whereas I ultimately acquired it to work, the method felt extra difficult than I anticipated.

Whereas the dashboards regarded nice on bigger screens, I discovered the cell enhancing expertise missing. Viewing experiences on a cellphone was high-quality, however making edits on the go felt clunky and restricted. This hole appeared shocking for a instrument that excels in so many areas.

What I like about Looker Studio

  • I cherished how Looker Studio reworked uncooked knowledge into a transparent and interesting story. The dashboards made complicated insights simple to grasp at a look. After I was exploring undertaking timelines, the interactive charts helped me spot patterns I might need missed in a spreadsheet.
  • I cherished how conditional formatting made my knowledge visually participating and simply interpretable. Assigning colours to particular metrics helped me to deal with what mattered most. I felt like this function 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 instrument with direct connections to numerous frequent database methods like Excel, BigQuery, and many others., 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 information transformations and calculated fields. My favorite facet is that it’s so quick, and even if you happen to’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 thought of automating report deliveries, the execution left me underwhelmed. The emailed experiences usually had formatting quirks, and a few visuals didn’t render correctly. It added pointless steps to get the experiences presentation-ready.
  • I felt restricted when making an attempt to attach Looker Studio to exterior platforms. Whereas it labored easily with Google instruments, I discovered it tough to combine knowledge 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, impartial fee connectors are sometimes obligatory. Buyer assist for Looker Studio from Google is minimal.

Looker Studio Assessment, Raúl S.

4. MongoDB Atlas

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

MongoDB Atlas dashboard displaying database metrics

One of many highlights for me was its geospatial capabilities. I labored with some location-based knowledge, 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 inventive methods to signify geographic knowledge visually.

One other function I discovered significantly helpful was the knowledge federation. I favored having the ability to question knowledge from a number of clusters, cloud storage, and exterior sources as in the event that they had been a part of a single database. This saved me the effort and time of guide knowledge 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 stage of visibility gave me confidence that dashboards relying on stay knowledge would run easily and responsively, even in high-demand situations.

Whereas Atlas excels at storing and scaling knowledge, cleansing up previous datasets is a unique story. After I deleted knowledge to unlock 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 initiatives 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 adjustments in useful resource utilization led to sudden prices, which made it tougher for me to plan budgets successfully. This unpredictability was a big disadvantage after I evaluated the instrument’s cost-efficiency.

What I like about MongoDB Atlas

  • I favored how Atlas made working with location-based knowledge 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 knowledge from a number of sources with none guide consolidation. Whether or not I used to be working with clusters, cloud storage, or exterior methods, I may question all the pieces as if it had been a part of a single database. This made it simpler to create complete dashboards and experiences.

What G2 customers like about MongoDB Atlas:

“Extremely environment friendly and scalable database service. MongoDB Atlas is a extremely efficient database net service by way of options and integrations. With just some clicks, you possibly can flick thru your knowledge collections. It gives us with a really clean interface and loads of integration instruments. additionally, Atlas gives us a variety of monitoring and deployment instruments. You possibly can join your codebase to mongodb and may 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 information, the compaction instruments didn’t reclaim as a lot area as I anticipated, resulting in wasted storage and probably pointless prices over time.
  • I had hassle with the unpredictable pricing mannequin. Since prices fluctuate primarily based 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 aren’t that efficient. I can not use it if I’ve an excessive amount of querying.

MongoDB Atlas Assessment, Rohit T.

5. SAP Crystal Stories

Should you’ve been trying to find a instrument that handles knowledge visualization and reporting like a professional, let me let you know about my expertise with SAP Crystal Stories. It has some unbelievable strengths that stood out to me, but it surely additionally got here with a couple 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 experiences reworked from static paperwork into interactive experiences.  I may filter by area, product class, or time interval, which showcased how adaptable the instrument may be for various wants. It felt satisfying to create one thing that might adapt to totally different audiences with out duplicating effort.

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

SAP Crystal Reports layout designer with formatting and customization options

The integration capabilities had been one other spotlight for me. Pulling knowledge from SQL databases, Excel sheets, and cloud-based instruments was seamless. After I mixed knowledge from a number of sources, all the pieces 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 may deal with complicated datasets.

Regardless of these strengths, there have been areas the place the instrument didn’t fairly meet my expectations. The outdated scripting choices usually left me annoyed. The method felt clunky and unintuitive after I tried to customise experiences utilizing scripts. Even small adjustments 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 shortage of real-time collaboration. After I wanted group members to evaluate or contribute to a report, the shortcoming to work on it concurrently precipitated delays. This made the method much less environment friendly, and typically, it led to duplicated efforts, which may have been prevented with higher collaboration options.

What I like about SAP Crystal Stories

  • 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 displays. After I was making an attempt 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 instrument.
  • I favored how nicely it built-in with various knowledge sources. Consolidating info from a number of platforms felt easy and made even complicated initiatives manageable. After I labored on a cross-departmental evaluation, the seamless knowledge integration allowed me to effortlessly mix knowledge from SQL, Excel, and a CRM system.

What G2 customers like about SAP Crystal Stories:

“It is a highly effective report instrument with a typically counterintuitive design course of, follows a ribbon area strategy
It could possibly report throughout a large number of databases like MS SQL, MySQL, SQLite, and Oracle through JDBC, ODBC, ADO, and many others.
primary reporting is straightforward, but it surely shortly will get onerous when you attempt extra complicated experiences
was as soon as extensively used as an embedded reporting instrument with canned experiences.

SAP Crystal Stories Assessment, Yassiem D.

What I dislike about SAP Crystal Stories:
  • I struggled with the outdated scripting choices. After I was making an attempt 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 instrument, I examined how weekly group experiences could possibly 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 could possibly 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 instrument to its fullest capabilities, however I may say that about many frequent instruments, reminiscent of SQL queries and Excel. Happily, 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 transferring them into the group’s footers, work nicely, however it isn’t very clear to return and know that’s what was performed later.
The instrument 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, and so they could also be higher at it presently.

SAP Crystal Stories Assessment, Melissa O.

6. AgencyAnalytics

AgencyAnalytics is one other knowledge visualization instrument I explored, and it stood out to me as a fantastic selection for companies 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 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 knowledge effectively with none pointless complexity.

I additionally discovered the interactive charting instruments extremely useful. After I labored with these charts, I may discover knowledge dynamically. I cherished how hovering over knowledge factors revealed further 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 knowledge visualization. I used it to tug knowledge from platforms like Google Analytics and social media dashboards. Seeing all the pieces in a single cohesive view made a giant distinction for me. I discovered it significantly helpful after I in contrast metrics throughout platforms and acquired 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 had been helpful for fast setups, however I discovered them restrictive after I wished extra inventive management over the format. 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 instrument dealt with present and historic knowledge nicely, it didn’t provide options for forecasting future tendencies or figuring out rising patterns. Gaining access to predictive insights would have added vital worth, particularly for long-term planning situations.

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

What I like about AgencyAnalytics

  • I discovered the interactive charts significantly participating. Hovering over knowledge factors to disclose further insights and drilling down into particular particulars allowed me to discover info dynamically. It felt extra participating than static visuals and supplied a deeper understanding of the info being offered.
  • I loved how simply I may pull in knowledge from instruments like Google Analytics and CRM methods. 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 deal with 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 additionally full of worthwhile insights that make my job a lot easier. One of many standout options is how ceaselessly 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 Assessment, Bhavya J.

What I dislike about AgencyAnalytics:
  • Whereas the preset templates had been useful for fast setups, I discovered them limiting by way of customization. There have been moments after I wished extra inventive 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 via the platform, I discovered myself wanting forecasting instruments. I favored how nicely it dealt with present and historic knowledge, 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 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 we now have seen updates seem fairly swiftly, which addresses our points. I might 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 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 observed how seamlessly it tackled complicated datasets, turning overwhelming info into clear, actionable insights.

What actually caught my consideration was its capacity to deal with hierarchical knowledge 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 unbelievable technique 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 may apply instantly inside experiences. 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 with no need 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 experiences to totally different groups or stakeholders. I may even set triggers primarily based on particular knowledge adjustments, which provides an entire new layer of automation and comfort.

Nonetheless, 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 rivals. It’s not that the interface is tough to make use of, but it surely doesn’t have the glossy, intuitive really feel I’ve come to count on from newer instruments.

I additionally discovered that integrating it with cloud-based methods 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 difficult. These hurdles made the method really feel much less fluid than it must be for a instrument with a lot potential. And, as with many enterprise-level options, the pricing may be a problem, particularly if you happen to’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 knowledge. I genuinely benefit from the flexibility it gives for tailoring experiences to suit distinctive wants—whether or not formatting layouts to match particular themes or including calculated fields that replicate deeper insights.
  • I additionally take pleasure in how structured it retains all the pieces, with folders and classes that assist me handle and discover experiences 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 the very best instrument for knowledge visualization and reporting. Its finest function is its capacity to deal with massive datasets. Even complicated knowledge may be analyzed, and experiences 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 Assessment, 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 after I wished for drag-and-drop simplicity or shortcuts to streamline repetitive duties, however the instrument appeared to prioritize construction over fluidity.
  • One space the place I feel SAP Crystal Server may enhance is the visible enchantment of its charts and graphs. Whereas they carry out reliably and current knowledge clearly, they lack the interactive options and polished design that may make displays extra participating and visually spectacular.
What G2 customers dislike about SAP Crystal Server:

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

SAP Crystal Server Assessment, Rishabh J.

Click to chat with G2s Monty-AI

Information visualization software program: Incessantly requested questions (FAQs)

1. Which software program is finest for knowledge visualization?

Based mostly on my hands-on testing, the very best software program will depend on your particular wants. Canva is unbelievable 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 choose if you happen to’re working with massive, complicated datasets.

2. What’s the finest knowledge visualization instrument 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 with out a design background. It’s excellent for creating easy but polished visuals.

3. What are the highest free knowledge visualization instruments?

Based mostly 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 knowledge visualizations.

4. What’s the best knowledge 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 suppleness make it a breeze to create visuals, even on a good deadline.

5. Which knowledge 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 the very 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 knowledge easy.

7. Which instrument is finest for visualizing massive datasets?

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

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

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

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

In terms of advertising analytics, AgencyAnalytics has been my favourite. It pulls in knowledge 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 knowledge visualization?

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

From messy knowledge to clear wins

Exploring knowledge visualization instruments taught me one key lesson: the precise instrument 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 instrument on my listing had one thing distinctive to supply. Canva made designing easy, approachable, and collaborative. Looker Studio confirmed me how interactivity may utterly change how knowledge is known. MongoDB Atlas proved how important it’s to handle complexity with out dropping precision. However no single instrument 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 usually essentially 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 superb instrument doesn’t simply make knowledge look good—it makes it significant, relatable, and inconceivable to disregard.

Here is my strategy for anybody determining which instrument to choose: begin with the top in thoughts. Contemplate what you’re making an attempt to speak and who wants to listen to it. Match the instrument to your function, 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 precise instruments, you may be fluent.


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