Looker
Business intelligence and analytics platform with data modelling
Deals for Looker
What Looker does
Looker is a business intelligence platform now offered as part of Google Cloud’s analytics suite. It enables organisations to explore, analyse and visualise data drawn from multiple sources. Core to the platform is LookML, a modelling language that lets teams define and manage complex data relationships for consistent metrics and governance.
Looker is often used by data analysts and business teams to create dashboards, share insights and build custom data applications. Its flexible architecture suits companies investing in centralised analytics and seeking to standardise data logic across their business. As part of Google Cloud, Looker benefits from integration with other Google services and a focus on security and scalability.
What sets it apart
LookML data modelling allows precise definition and reuse of business logic, which sets Looker apart from many other BI tools.
Key features
- ◆LookML data modelling
- ◆Custom dashboards and reports
- ◆Direct SQL database queries
- ◆Data schedule and delivery
- ◆Embedded analytics
- ◆Granular user permissions
- ◆API access
What teams use it for
- Build and share interactive dashboards
- Model business logic with LookML
- Automate reporting and data delivery
- Embed analytics in custom applications
- Connect disparate data sources
Pros
- +LookML enforces data consistency across reports
- +Integration with Google Cloud services
- +Scalable for enterprise data volumes
- +Customisable data security and permissions
Cons
- −Steep learning curve for LookML
- −Complex setup for smaller teams
- −Price point may not suit budget-conscious users
Integrates with
Our verdict
Looker suits organisations that want a scalable BI platform with custom data modelling and strong governance. Small teams with simple needs or those without in-house data expertise may find it more complex than necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Does Looker run natively on Google Cloud?+
Yes, Looker is now part of Google Cloud and integrates with other Google Cloud services.
Is prior knowledge of LookML required to use Looker?+
LookML is useful for advanced data modelling but basic dashboarding can be done without it. However, to get the most from the platform, LookML skills are important.
Which databases can Looker connect to?+
Looker connects to a range of SQL databases, including Google BigQuery, Snowflake, Redshift and others.
How do I find Looker's pricing?+
Looker does not publish public pricing; contact the sales team or see the official pricing page for details.
Looker alternatives
Similar tools worth comparing.
Open-source business intelligence and dashboards for teams
Metabase makes SQL and dashboards friendly for non-analysts.
Business analytics connected across the Microsoft ecosystem
Power BI is deeply integrated with Excel, Azure, and Microsoft 365.
Visual analytics for exploring and sharing business data
Tableau is the gold standard for self-serve data visualization.
Data exploration powered by associative analytics engine
Qlik Sense uses an associative engine to explore data freely.
Collaborative SQL and Python analytics notebooks
Mode is a collaborative SQL + Python notebook & dashboard tool.
Cloud-hosted Apache Superset for analytics and BI dashboards
Managed Apache Superset
We link directly to each vendor's own site. These are not affiliate or tracking links, and we earn no commission from them.