Mode review: Collaborative BI platform combining SQL, R, Python and dashboards for data teams

What Mode does

Mode is a business intelligence platform built around data teams. It puts SQL, R, Python and visual analytics into one workspace, so analysts can run ad hoc queries, build charts and dashboards, and then hand results to business colleagues through self-service reporting. The vendor also lists reusable datasets and custom data apps among its capabilities.

The official site describes Mode as a central hub where data teams curate data and business teams use it, positioned as the intelligence layer on top of a modern data stack.

There are three plans. Studio is aimed at individual analysts, is offered with free sign-up, and covers SQL, Python and R, private database connections, up to 3 users and 10 MB per query. Pro is described as collaboration for data-driven teams and adds schedules, permissioning, Email & Slack sharing, API access and standard support, with 250 GB/month and 5 GB per query. Enterprise adds custom data compute, advanced identity management, advanced SSO, admin-level API access and premium support, and lists a minimum of 50 users.

Prices for Pro and Enterprise are not published on the official site; both plans point to scheduling a demo. Pro lists a minimum of 3 users. Some items, such as white-label embedding and external sharing, are shown as add-ons on the comparison table.

• SQL, R and Python in one workspace
• Ad hoc analysis with SQL
• Interactive dashboards
• Self-service reporting
• Reusable, explorable datasets
• Custom data apps
• Scheduled reports with Email & Slack sharing
• API access on Pro

Our take

Mode fits data teams that already work in SQL, R or Python and want one place to turn analysis into dashboards and reports that business colleagues can use. The free Studio plan lets an individual analyst start without paying, though it is capped at 10 MB per query and up to 3 users. Teams needing scheduling, Slack sharing or API access must move to Pro, whose price is not published, so budgeting requires talking to the vendor. Enterprise suits large organizations, with a stated minimum of 50 users. Anyone wanting a transparent self-serve price list, or a mobile or desktop app, will not find that on the official pages.