Business intelligence (BI) and data analytics tools like Power BI, Tableau, Looker, and Qlik Sense have revolutionised the way businesses analyse and visualise data. But while these tools are powerful, they often fall short when it comes to customisation, integration, and scalability—especially for organisations with specific needs or complex data structures.
When off-the-shelf tools aren’t quite the right fit, bespoke solutions give you the flexibility and control to unlock your data’s true potential.
Power BI – Microsoft’s Data Visualisation Powerhouse
Power BI provides a comprehensive suite of data visualisation and business intelligence tools, integrating seamlessly with other Microsoft products.
Key features:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Built-in AI capabilities for data insights
- Integration with Excel, Azure, and Dynamics
- Real-time dashboards and reporting
- Customisable query and filtering options
Limitations:
While Power BI is robust, it’s primarily geared towards users who are already embedded within the Microsoft ecosystem. It can be limited for companies using non-Microsoft platforms or with more complex, unique analytics needs. Custom reports often require advanced knowledge of DAX (Data Analysis Expressions).
Tableau – Powerful Data Storytelling
Tableau is known for its visually appealing and highly interactive dashboards that allow businesses to explore and present data in compelling ways.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop data visualisation
- Advanced analytical capabilities like forecasting and trend analysis
- Strong community and resources
- Integration with a wide range of data sources
- Real-time collaboration features
Limitations:
Tableau’s biggest strength—visual storytelling—can be its downfall for complex data sets. Creating deeply customised reports may require advanced skills, and it can be resource-heavy when managing large datasets. Tableau also lacks some of the collaborative features of cloud-native tools, requiring add-ons for full functionality.
Looker (Google Cloud) – Embedded Analytics for the Data-Driven Organisation
Looker is designed to deliver embedded analytics and business intelligence solutions, particularly for teams focused on data exploration and custom reporting.
Key features:
- In-database querying and real-time insights
- Integration with Google Cloud services and other data sources
- Customisable metrics and KPIs
- Embedded analytics for client-facing reports
- Powerful API for seamless integration
Limitations:
Looker’s strength in embedded analytics comes with a trade-off. It may be overly complex for users looking for straightforward reporting. Its in-database processing also requires a significant understanding of SQL, making it less accessible for non-technical users. Looker is most effective for organisations with a mature data infrastructure.
Qlik Sense – Interactive Dashboards and Data Exploration
Qlik Sense offers self-service data visualisation and analysis, enabling users to explore data freely and generate interactive reports.
Key features:
- Associative data engine for deeper insights
- Drag-and-drop dashboard creation
- Data storytelling with rich visualisations
- Seamless integration with cloud and on-premise data
- Multi-dimensional data exploration
Limitations:
Qlik Sense can be complex for new users to navigate, and the interface may not be as intuitive as others like Power BI or Tableau. Its learning curve can be steep, and while it’s highly customisable, its setup and maintenance require dedicated resources.
When Standard BI Tools Aren’t Enough
While these platforms provide excellent foundations for data analysis, they often fall short when:
- You need highly customised dashboards that don’t conform to rigid templates
- You’re working with proprietary or legacy systems that require bespoke integration
- Your data is siloed, fragmented, or housed in multiple systems
- You need reports that speak the language of your business, not just raw numbers
- You need more than just a “dashboard” but a complete data ecosystem tailored to your workflow
Shoothill: Custom Business Intelligence and Data Analytics Solutions
At Shoothill, we don’t just help you visualise data—we build custom BI platforms that work the way you work. Whether you need real-time dashboards, custom data flows, or advanced analytics to fuel decision-making, we develop solutions that evolve alongside your business.
Our bespoke solutions offer:
- Fully customisable dashboards that reflect your business needs
- Seamless integration with multiple data sources, systems, and platforms
- Advanced data models and predictive analytics tailored to your KPIs
- Real-time reporting and decision-making tools
- Secure, scalable systems that grow with your organisation
Don’t Settle for Standard Tools—Build the BI System You Need
Every business has unique data requirements and reporting needs. Why settle for cookie-cutter software when you can have a platform built to maximise your data’s potential?
🔹 Contact Shoothill to discuss how we can help you unlock the true power of your data with a custom-built Business Intelligence solution.