In the realm of business intelligence and data analytics, Qlik offers two distinct solutions for reporting: Qlik NPrinting and Qlik Cloud Reporting. Each has its unique features and capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences. Below, we explore the key differences between these two offerings.
1. Product Integration and Architecture
Qlik NPrinting:
- Standalone Product: Qlik NPrinting is a separate, standalone product that operates on its own servers.
- Distinct User Management: It requires a unique user directory, along with specific authentication and authorization processes.
Qlik Cloud Reporting:
- Integrated with Qlik Cloud: This is a SaaS offering that integrates seamlessly with Qlik Cloud, utilizing the same architectural services.
- Unified User Management: It uses the Qlik Cloud’s existing user management system, providing a cohesive experience.
- Advanced Support: Offers deeper integration with the Qlik engine, including advanced features like alternate states and ‘always one selected value’.
2. Deployment and Scalability
Qlik NPrinting:
- Customer-managed Deployment: The deployment and management of Qlik NPrinting servers are handled by the customer’s IT team.
- Fixed Servers: Customers typically manage a limited number of pre-paid servers to ensure optimal performance.
Qlik Cloud Reporting:
- Elastic Scalability: Qlik Cloud offers an elastic report generation service that automatically scales according to demand.
- Cloud-managed: The cloud infrastructure ensures seamless scalability and reduces the need for customer-managed server maintenance.
3. Report Composition
Qlik NPrinting:
- Single Authoring Tool: Utilizes NPrinting Designer for all report creation, requiring specific expertise.
- Uniform Complexity: The same tool is used for both simple and complex report creation.
Qlik Cloud Reporting:
- Variety of Composition Options:
- Native Subscriptions: For straightforward sheet selection.
- Qlik Application Automation: For more advanced composition and process definition.
- Future Enhancements: Plans for more advanced authoring options are on the roadmap.
4. Data Set Management
Qlik NPrinting:
- Fixed Data Sets: Limited support for large or frequently updating data sets.
Qlik Cloud Reporting:
- Fixed and Dynamic Data Sets: Supports both fixed and on-demand data sets through Qlik Application Automation, allowing for more flexibility and up-to-date reporting.
Both Qlik NPrinting and Qlik Cloud Reporting serve vital roles in the Qlik ecosystem, yet they cater to different needs. Qlik NPrinting is ideal for those who need a standalone, mature solution with specific server management. In contrast, Qlik Cloud Reporting is perfect for users looking for an integrated, scalable, and flexible reporting solution within the Qlik Cloud environment. As Qlik continues to innovate, users can expect even more powerful features and capabilities in both platforms.
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