In today’s data-driven world, businesses thrive on insights gleaned from customer interactions, sales figures, and market trends. However, raw data is just potential – it needs the power of analytics to transform into actionable intelligence. With its robust suite of analytics tools, this is where Salesforce steps in. This blog post dives into three key players within the Salesforce analytics ecosystem: Salesforce Analytics Studio (formerly Wave Analytics), CRM Analytics (formerly Tableau CRM and Einstein Analytics), and the ever-popular Tableau platform. We’ll explore their functionalities, unique strengths, and how they can empower you to make informed decisions and drive business growth.

Salesforce CRM Analytics Studio and Tableau

Harnessing the Power of Your CRM Data Through Salesforce Analytics Studio

Salesforce Analytics Studio offers a user-friendly platform specifically designed for CRM data exploration within the Salesforce environment. It empowers users with self-service analytics, allowing them to create custom reports, dashboards, and data visualizations without relying on IT specialists.

• Key Features of Salesforce Analytics Studio:
  • Drag-and-drop interface: Build reports and dashboards visually, simplifying data analysis even for non-technical users.
  • Pre-built templates: Get started quickly with industry-specific and role-based templates for sales, marketing, and customer service (see resources on Trailhead: https://trailhead.salesforce.com/).
  • Data blending: Combine data from Salesforce objects with external sources for a comprehensive view.
  • Collaboration: Share insights and reports seamlessly with colleagues within your Salesforce organization.

CRM Analytics – AI-powered Insights for a Deeper Understanding

CRM Analytics, the native analytics experience within Salesforce, builds upon the foundation of Salesforce Analytics Studio. It leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) with Salesforce Einstein to provide advanced analytics capabilities.

What sets CRM Analytics apart?

• Predictive analytics: Use AI to forecast future trends and customer behavior, allowing for proactive decision-making.
• Prescriptive recommendations: Receive data-driven suggestions for optimizing sales strategies, marketing campaigns, and customer service interactions.
• Automated insights: Streamline workflows by automating routine reporting tasks.
• Mobile-friendly access: Gain insights on the go with dedicated mobile apps for CRM Analytics.

Tableau – The King of Data Visualization

Tableau, a leading data visualization platform acquired by Salesforce in 2019, offers a powerful and versatile suite of tools for creating stunning and interactive visualizations. With its drag-and-drop functionality and vast library of chart types, Tableau empowers users to transform complex data sets into clear, compelling stories.

Why choose Tableau?

• Unmatched visual storytelling: Create interactive dashboards that bring data to life and engage audiences (see resources on Tableau Help: https://www.tableau.com/learn/get-started).
• Data connectivity: Connect to a wide range of data sources, both within and outside Salesforce.
• Advanced analytics: Go beyond basic visualizations with features like trend analysis and forecasting.
• Tableau Public: Share your insights with the world through a free platform for creating and publishing visualizations (https://www.tableau.com/community/public).

Choosing the Right Tool – Salesforce Analytics Studio vs. CRM Analytics vs. Tableau

While all three tools fall under the umbrella of Salesforce analytics, they each cater to specific needs:

• Salesforce Analytics Studio: Ideal for quick, self-service exploration of CRM data within Salesforce.
• CRM Analytics: Best suited for users who require AI-powered insights and predictive capabilities.
• Tableau: Perfect for creating professional-grade data visualizations for presentations, reports, and broader data exploration.

The true magic lies in the integration between these tools. Leverage Salesforce Analytics Studio for initial data exploration, then delve deeper with the AI-powered insights of CRM Analytics. Finally, create compelling visualizations using Tableau to communicate your findings effectively.

Beyond the Big Three Hot Trends in Salesforce Analytics

The Salesforce analytics landscape is constantly evolving. Here are some trending topics to keep an eye on:

• Augmented Analytics (AA): AA leverages AI to automate tasks and personalize the analytics experience for individual users (see article on Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/tableau/2022/07/26/navigating-data-literacy-in-the-world-of-augmented-analytics/).
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Interact with data using natural language, making analytics more accessible to everyone (read more on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_language_processing).
• Embedded Analytics: Integrate data insights directly into the workflows where they’re most actionable, like Salesforce dashboards and reports.