This guide walks technical users through the process of performing a critical evaluation of the Pentaho BI Suite Enterprise Edition version 3.6.0
Pentaho offers a low-cost open source alternative to traditional proprietary business intelligence software. Proprietary BI companies like to control the evaluation process in order to mask the overwhelming technical barriers in installing and configuring their software, so they typically charge prospective clients for a "proof-of-concept" implementation, integrated with the client's data, and that is essentially the only evaluation option they offer. Pentaho does not charge for software evaluations, even for its Enterprise Edition offerings -- anyone can download the Pentaho BI Suite and use a free 30-day evaluation license key. However, no charge means there's also no consultant to do all of the work for you, or to stand over your shoulder and personally walk you through using and evaluating these rather sophisticated products. This guide is essentially a free replacement for that consultant, meant to satisfy prospective Pentaho customers who want to save money by performing an initial evaluation on their own. There are still Pentaho consultants, salespeople, and pre-sales support specialists to help you with more advanced procedures, and if you still want that proof-of-concept after you've performed your initial evaluation, a Pentaho consultant can make that happen.