What is Google Looker?

Google Looker is a data visualization tool designed for creating interactive reports and dashboards. As a web-based reporting tool, it facilitates the connection to various data types, utilizing both built-in and partner connectors. Looker allows users to share their insights by enabling them to create and distribute interactive dashboards. It also offers a developer platform, which provides the capability to extend its functionality beyond the built-in features. Additionally, Looker can be integrated into any web page, demonstrating its versatility in data presentation and accessibility.

What is Progress DataRPM?

Progress DataRPM is an analytics product distinct from Google Looker. Unlike Looker, Progress DataRPM is not a newer offering in the market and does not have the same level of content management capabilities. It does not manage looks, dashboards, merge queries, and boards as Looker does. Additionally, Progress DataRPM is not a BI tool in the same category as Looker or Looker Studio, which are specific to Google's ecosystem. Progress DataRPM is not known to be a licensed Google product, and it is not associated with the free data visualization tool Looker Studio, also known as Data Studio.

Google Looker vs Progress DataRPM

Product Background

Google Looker is a newer, licensed BI tool developed by Google, designed to provide real-time data insights, manage content such as looks and dashboards, and connect to data warehouses. It is part of the Google Cloud service portfolio. In contrast, Progress DataRPM is not mentioned as a Google product, implying it is from a different vendor.

Integration and Accessibility

Looker is integrated within the Google Cloud console, offering a seamless experience for users who are already within the Google Cloud ecosystem. It also allows users to analyze, explore, and visualize data using Looker Studio, known as Data Studio, which is a free data visualization tool. There is no information provided about Progress DataRPM's integration with other services or its data visualization capabilities.

Data Modeling and Management

Looker uses LookML, a SQL-based modeling language, to let analysts define and manage business rules. This Git version-controlled data model ensures consistency and governance. The ability for Looker to manage content and provide enterprise-class BI highlights its suitability for larger organizations. The details about Progress DataRPM's data modeling and content management capabilities are not provided.

Infrastructure and Availability

Being built on Google Cloud infrastructure, Looker benefits from the security and scalability that come with Google's services. It is available as a Google Cloud service and is integrated with the existing Google Cloud portfolio. The infrastructure and availability details for Progress DataRPM have not been provided.

Cost and Licensing

Google Looker is a licensed product, which suggests there is a cost associated with its use. Looker Studio, part of the Looker suite, is offered for free. There is no information about the cost structure or licensing for Progress DataRPM, which could be a deciding factor for potential users comparing the two services.

Exploring Sourcetable as an Alternative to Google Looker and Progress DataRPM

When considering Looker alternatives for complex data handling, Sourcetable emerges as a distinct option. It integrates various data sources into a single, spreadsheet-like environment for real-time querying and management. This approach offers a simplified, yet robust, solution for users seeking a more accessible interface for data analytics.

Sourcetable's spreadsheet-centric design provides an intuitive platform for those accustomed to traditional spreadsheet tools. Its ability to collect and manipulate data in real-time caters to businesses needing immediate insights without the complexity of advanced BI tools like Looker or the predictive maintenance focus of Progress DataRPM.

The platform's ease of setup and use aligns with the current trend of user-friendly BI solutions. For organizations prioritizing quick data access and straightforward manipulation, Sourcetable offers a practical and efficient alternative to more complex systems.