Book Review: Embedded Analytics for Dummies (Sisense)

I recently came across this ebook, "Embedded Analytics for Dummies, @Sisense Special Edition" by Andrew Moore, while I was exploring the world of embedded analytics. 

This book does a great job of breaking down why traditional BI tools just aren’t cutting it anymore. Andrew hits the nail on the head when he says, “Separate tools and technologies that users have to learn are a recipe for poor adoption.” I agree because who wants to juggle multiple tools when you can have analytics embedded right into your everyday apps?

An interesting section for me was about the real-world applications of embedded analytics. Andrew shared some awesome examples, like how embedded analytics can help manufacturing apps provide insights directly in the app. He mentioned that, “Providing downtime analytics could help users predict the mean time between failures,” which is such a game-changer for preventing costly downtimes.

In the ebook, Andrew talks about whether to build or buy your analytics solution. This is a big decision for many companies, and I loved his balanced take on it. He asks, “How much interactivity and personalization will my users want?” It really got me thinking about how much effort goes into companies building a custom solution versus the benefits of buying a platform like Sisense that already has advanced features.

My absolute favorite section was towards the end - “Ten Pieces of Advice for Effective Embedded Analytics”; it was full of practical tips and best practices that can help ensure the success of your embedded analytics project. 

Here are some highlights:

• Be Intentional About Success: “Understand what success looks like for your users so you can set up your data model, workflows, and visualizations accordingly.” This tip is important for aligning analytics with user needs and driving real value.
• Plan the Data Model: Andrew emphasizes the importance of planning your data model based on customer analytics needs. This foresight can save a lot of headaches down the line.
• Customization is Key: Ensure your product team can customize your embedded analytics to match the look and feel of your application. This helps in creating a seamless user experience.

Embedded Analytics for Dummies, Sisense Special Edition is a must-read if you’re looking to enhance your products with embedded analytics. It’s packed with practical advice, real-world examples, and clear insights that can help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your analytics capabilities, this book has got you covered.

You can check it out here!