Tableau is a powerful tool used for data visualization and analytics. It converts a host of multi-point, cross-functional data into meaningful and actionable insights to meet various business objectives. Apart from ascribing meaning and value to data, it also serves as a real-time dashboard for quick updates. However, despite its many benefits and user-friendly layout, Tableau users fail to extract maximum value from the platform. It primarily occurs due to a lack of domain knowledge paired with inexperience during implementation. Also, the fact that Tableau packs quite a punch can make it tougher for users to focus on the value proposition they seek and get distracted by all the bells and whistles. Also, very few companies realize that Tableau allows customization to fit specific use cases and applications. To prevent such pitfalls, several businesses prefer leaning on Tableau consulting services to meet their specific needs.
However, with several Tableau consulting firms available in the market, committing to one may seem daunting. Here’s an express guide for choosing the right Tableau consulting company.
Understand Your Business Needs
Before you embark on your search for the best Tableau consulting services, you should first identify your business requirements and needs. Classify your baseline expectations into needs, wants, and future aspirations. Then map out how they tie up with the final goal. Don’t forget to classify them on the basis of impact and urgency too.
Once you have such a matrix ready, you will have a clear checklist of expectations. Then, based on this, you can start by shortlisting Tableau consulting firms that possess credible and demonstrable experience to cater to such a requirement. Such an approach can help you with first-stage screening.
For instance, if you are struggling with integrating heavy volumes of data and diverse data sources to obtain a consolidated data view – you can be more focused on finding a Tableau consulting company that specializes in the integration of multiple sources of information into a single source of truth.
Review the Company Portfolio
After shortlisting the different Tableau consulting firms, you can research the reviews and portfolios of each potential consultant. You should look into the different industries and sectors for which the firm offers such services. A Tableau consulting company with domain knowledge and expertise can help you with a lot more. Such a company can help you identify and solve unique problems in no time. You may also connect with the client base of the potential partners to get an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of partnering with the company.
Connect With Past and Present Clients
The best way to find out how the Tableau consulting services company treats its clients is to obtain this information right from the horse’s mouth. Nowadays, it has become a norm to ask for references from the company’s previous and current clients. The personal feedback from the clients will offer honest insights regarding the quality of the data analytics services. These references may include handy tips as well when working with such consultants. You should ask the references if they found the services to be satisfactory and if they had any problems or concerns while working with the vendor.
Accessibility and Availability
When looking for a Tableau consulting company, accessibility and availability are two key factors to consider. Even if the company offers the right services and solutions, along with the requisite technical skills, the partnership won’t be successful if they aren’t accessible and available. Interestingly, any issue surrounding accessibility and availability can be addressed through proactive and intentional communication. If the Tableau consulting firms connect with you periodically and update you on all the happenings, you will not face any issues. Similarly, effective communication and collaboration help in discovering profitable innovations and ideas.
Even though all the Tableau dashboard development and configuration activities may take place behind the curtains and even though the consultancy firm will work independently, the fact that they walk you through the entire process will help the final solution align with your specific requirements. Hence, the Tableau consulting company should be able to effectively communicate, particularly when it comes to explaining complicated ideas and technical jargon to the client or internal team members.
Measure Your Success
Identify the right set of metrics to measure progress and success – before, during, and after Tableau implementation. By quantifying these values, you make vague entities like “progress” or “success” more tangible and translate your goals along the SMART parameters. It also aids in evaluating whether Tableau customization or implementation has helped your business achieve the intended results or how well the Tableau consulting company performed while mentoring you. Apart from charting the implementation roadmap, metrics also help benchmark success as all the data generated double as performance markers to denote any trends in the future.
Conclusion
Selecting the right Tableau consulting company is crucial for businesses seeking technical expertise and support. However, the abundance of Tableau consulting services can make the process overwhelming. Nevertheless, once you have clearly outlined your business goals and have a basic understanding of the skills and expertise you need, the selection process becomes easier. Based on your unique needs, shortlist the Tableau consulting firms, and choose the consultant who can deliver high-quality work and offers ongoing support.
