IBM Cognos BI Review - why 4.1 stars?

Shlomi Lavi / updated: Mar 12, 2022

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What is IBM Cognos BI?

IBM Cognos is a cloud business intelligence software designed to help end-users clean and connect their data, create stunning data visualizations, predict what will happen tomorrow. The software comes with features such as

• Automate data exploration: IBM Cognos helps business analysts to uncover hidden trends and drivers with the help of AI.
• Visualize and report on data: This feature helps business analysts create powerful visualizations. It tells the story of data and shares insights via email, Slack, or the mobile app.
• Scale and integrate: With this feature, business analysts can bring together advanced analytics and data science into daily operations and seize new opportunities.
• Data Protection: IBM Cognos comes with governed self-service analytics that adapts to the requirements of business analysts and protects data from misuse.

IBM Cognos is a business intelligence software that started in 1969. The company is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. IBM Cognos is a product of IBM, which has a workforce of more than 10,000 employees.

Who is it best for?

IBM Cognos can be deployed for the business intelligence needs of any business regardless of size and type. It has been deployed in such industries as aerospace, automation, education, energy, electronics, financial services, manufacturing, defense, consumer products, and others. Some noteworthy customers of the software include ITERGO Information Technologies, Global Bank, and Large Insurance Company etc.

Main features and functionalities

The software features core analytical services of ad hoc analysis, predictive analysis, issue and trend indicators, and customizable interface. Reporting services, on the other hand, include ad hoc reporting, automated scheduled reporting, customizable dashboard, graphic benchmark tools, and financial forecasting and budgeting.

Users have the facility of creating different kinds of reports, including chats, lists, maps, and repeat functions. The software offers support for both relational and multi-dimensional data. Analysis of large data sources can be created and background information about a particular event or action can be searched.

What is the actual cost?

IBM Cognos offers 3 pricing subscriptions: On-Demand, Client Hosted, and On-Cloud Host. The On-Demand Subscription comes with two pricing options, namely Standard and Premium.

• The Standard plan starts at $10 per user per month.
• The Premium plan starts at $40 per user per month.
• The Standard plan comes with features such as Dashboards, storytelling & collaboration, Cognos mobile, and up to 10 on-premises or cloud data connections.

The Premium plan comes with everything in standard plus AI Assistant & Watson Insights, Data exploration, Smart Data Discovery & AI Exploration, Enterprise reporting & managed report distribution.

ITQlick pricing score is 7.6 out of 10 (10 is most expensive). Access ITQlick pricing guide for IBM Cognos BI.

Pros

• IBM Cognos easily integrates with most of the ERPs
• The software is suitable for customizing very detailed reporting
• The software comes with all the latest features expected in a BI tool

Cons

• Interactive PDF is not available for reports

How it stacks up?

Access a head to head analysis of IBM Cognos BI vs alternative software solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is IBM Cognos BI right for you or your business?

Business analysts seeking smarter, self-service capabilities which they can use to quickly and confidently identify and act on insight will fit well with IBM Cognos. The BI software provides an engaging experience that empowers business users to create and personalize dashboards and reports on their own. Examples of business analysts using IBM Cognos are found in organizations like WestJet, ViacomCBS, Sinclair Broadcast Group, Salient CRGT, Bass Pro Shops, ATG, Hennepin County, Office Depot, Senturus, etc.