Authorized Tableau users can use Tableau Server and Tableau Cloud to share and collaborate. The difference between the two platforms may not be so obvious to new users and organizations that consider implementing Tableau. This blog provides an overview of Tableau Server and Tableau Cloud, discussing their differences and use cases.
Tableau Server
Tableau Server is installed on-premises, meaning it runs locally on the computers of the organization and gives a full control over system configuration and security. At the same time, it requires continuous maintenance that include software updates and monitoring. Enabling access to Tableau’s PostgreSQL repository, Tableau Server is ideal for creating custom administrative views and reports. Tableau Server gives the organizations the option, when to apply latest upgrades and changes, which gives the users more flexibility.
Depending on the complexity of data requirements, license type and number of users, Tableau Server may result in a high total cost of ownership (TCO). Moreover, organization’s hardware and infrastructure capabilities will determine the performance and scalability of Tableau Server and there may be the need to invest in an additional hardware.
Allowing a more seamless interaction with on-premises data sources, Tableau Server provides more flexibility in terms of performance tuning and customizable administrative reporting with access to Postgres repository. The disadvantages of Tableau Server include high cost for infrastructure and ongoing maintenance.
Tableau Cloud
Tableau Cloud is optimized for a better integration with other cloud-based platforms such as Google BigQuery and Salesforce. With Tableau Cloud, the secure environment and regular updates are integrated automatically, without the need for manual configuration and maintenance of data and network security. Without extra hardware and infrastructure cost and a subscription-based pricing, TCO of Tableau Cloud is typically lower, making it more cost-effective, although the price per user is more expensive.
Tableau Cloud does not require any internal time, resources or infrastructure cost and automatically provides all the latest features and functionalities. Whereas it is generally a good thing, some control over upgrade schedules and performance may be desired in some cases.
As a cloud-hosted solution that is entirely managed and Tableau Cloud does not require any server maintenance, allowing organizations to have a more hands-off approach without back-end infrastructure management. With Tableau Cloud there is no need for the organization to manually configure and maintain data and network security, but on the other hand, features like custom administrative views and reports are more challenging.
Control or Convenience
Both platforms provide powerful capabilities for sharing, and collaboration within Tableau’s ecosystem. In the end, Tableau Server might be more suitable for organizations that need extensive control and customization, as well as integration with on-premises data. In contrast, Tableau Cloud is best suited for organizations seeking a lower-maintenance option with quick access to the lates features.