Navigating Data Visualization Tools: A Comparative Exploration of Excel, Cognos, and Google Look Studio

In my first data visualization practice task, I utilized data from my Master's degree transcript at the University of Debrecen in Computer Science. The process involved extracting data from a PDF, cleaning and formatting it in Excel, and saving it as a . CSV file for visualization in IBM Cognos and Google Look Studio.

Excel Daily Hack : While Excel required time for data extraction and cleaning, creating visualizations, especially using Pivot tables, proved essential. Despite some challenges with multiple columns, creating individual Pivot tables for each chart resulted in a satisfying Area chart that conveyed clear and understandable insights.

The outcome, particularly with the Area chart, was not only clear but also easily comprehensible. Excel's flexibility in data handling and visualization customization played a significant role in the overall success of the project.

IBM Cognos Analytics : IBM Cognos emerged as an efficient contender, offering a user-friendly interface with readily available templates. The drag-and-drop functionality in Cognos proved invaluable, simplifying data manipulation and allowing for seamless formatting, sorting, and filtering. The array of chart styles available enhanced the overall visual appeal. Cognos showcased a balance between ease of use and powerful features, making it a compelling choice for data visualization tasks.

Looker : Google Looker Studio, while intuitive in file uploading, introduced a distinct terminology, referring to reports instead of dashboards. The absence of templates, though, did not hinder the flexibility to drag and drop desired data for visualization. However, the tool's tendency to automatically apply data as a filter, affecting all visualizations, posed a challenge. Despite fewer styling options for text, Google Looker Studio held its own in providing a dynamic environment for exploring and presenting data.

In the grand tapestry of data visualization tools, Excel stands out for its adaptability and customization, offering a robust solution for those comfortable with its functionalities. As we delve deeper, the evaluation will unveil the nuanced strengths and weaknesses of each tool, guiding the selection based on specific project requirements.

In my inaugural data visualization task, inspired by the illuminating "Data Visualization and Dashboards with Excel and Cognos" course on Coursera , I embarked on a journey through the dynamic capabilities of Excel, Cognos, and Google Look Studio. The comprehensive course not only equipped me with foundational skills but also guided me in applying these skills effectively across different tools.