The Howdy Glossary

Birst is a cloud-based business intelligence (BI) and analytics platform offering extensive functionalities such as enterprise-level reporting, ad-hoc query and analysis, dashboards, scorecards, search-based data discovery, and mobile access. It features an automated data warehouse that integrates data from diverse sources in real-time or at scheduled intervals. Birst's innovative networked BI approach facilitates centralized governance while allowing departments to create customized reports. In 2017, Infor acquired Birst to bolster its industry-specific ERP systems with advanced analytics capabilities.

Birst distinguishes itself in the competitive BI market through several unique features. Its networked BI approach allows for both centralized governance and decentralized flexibility across departments. The automated data warehouse streamlines the integration of data from multiple sources efficiently. Additionally, Birst offers extensive mobile access and search-based data discovery, enhancing its usability across different organizational levels. These attributes make it a versatile tool for businesses seeking advanced analytics solutions in a cloud-based environment.

Despite facing competition from notable players like Tableau, Microsoft Power BI, Qlikview, MicroStrategy, and Oracle BI—each known for their specific strengths—Birst maintains a competitive edge due to its distinctive networking BI approach combined with an automated data warehouse system. This architecture supports robust centralized governance while enabling localized report customization tailored to departmental needs. Enhanced by its acquisition by Infor which brought deeper integration with industry-specific ERP systems, Birst provides comprehensive business intelligence solutions that cater effectively to various industries' requirements for powerful decision-making tools.