What is our primary use case?
My main use case for Palantir Foundry involves upgrading some legacy applications to utilize GenAI. We are trying to implement GenAI solutions for unstructured data that we receive in large volumes. Essentially, we are attempting to read this unstructured data and convert it into a structured format, with Palantir Foundry assisting us in this process through Python transforms and related functions that utilize extracted text from the OCR process. After the OCR process, we apply some AIP logics to this text to transform it into a structured format for meeting our goals.
A specific example of how I use Palantir Foundry for this process begins with the OCR scanning process itself. We scan all the incoming PDFs, Word documents, and images, which are then transferred to our automation set within Palantir Foundry. The automation connects with Python functions, executing the necessary logic to convert incoming data into the formats we need using automation, Python functions, and the code repository in Palantir Foundry. We also utilize Insights for testing processes such as file uploads.
What is most valuable?
Among the best features offered by Palantir Foundry, I think the ontology stands out as a remarkable aspect for finding everything. From a coder's perspective, everything is integrated, including Git, development IDs, and VS Code, which makes everything seamless. You can work locally on your preferred ID or directly on the Palantir Foundry portal. The integration includes checks and builds, so all aspects are available within Palantir Foundry itself. Datasets within Palantir Foundry function smoothly, with connectors facilitating connections to any data sources, including external ones. Additionally, the automation feature allows for selective control over code functions and scheduling.
In terms of user experience with Palantir Foundry, I find it to be exemplary. It is very easy to work on, although I initially struggled to understand it as this was the first platform with so many integrated features, such as Git and the VS Code editor.
Palantir Foundry enhances my main use case by allowing us to backtrack all data through ontology, which helps in understanding the objects involved and back propagating to the root cause, aiding in visualizing the entire workflow. It allows us to track our transactions, movements, and workflows efficiently compared to other platforms, providing significant support in this area.
Palantir Foundry positively impacts our organization by being seamlessly integrated and offering easy-to-access features without the need for third-party integrations. Everything is already in place, which benefits developers and subsequently enhances managers' productivity, leading to overall organizational revenue growth.
What needs improvement?
Palantir Foundry could be improved by making some aspects or features open source, as its current pricing and accessibility pose challenges. Many potential users find it difficult to access, which could hinder tech talent from engaging with this tool.
I notice technical limitations exist, yet when we encounter issues, the Palantir Foundry support team addresses our queries promptly. However, if the team works on previously raised issues to ensure they do not recur, it would enhance overall user experience and reliability.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have recently started using Palantir Foundry, and it has been almost a year since I began.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
Palantir Foundry is stable.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Palantir Foundry's scalability is impressive as it allows us to scale up easily, reflecting its design supporting our expanding use cases without restriction.
How are customer service and support?
The customer support from Palantir Foundry is great, with fast query resolution. However, ensuring that issues do not recur in the future through effective implementation would strengthen the support experience.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
Previously, we used standalone tools and services, but after discovering Palantir Foundry, we found it intriguing enough to switch, and our experience has been positive ever since.
How was the initial setup?
Handling initial onboarding and training for Palantir Foundry has been challenging. We face difficulties in accessing resources, which prompts us to arrange training sessions with Palantir Foundry representatives. This remains a concern as we still struggle with resource availability.
What was our ROI?
Although I cannot disclose specific figures, I can confirm that we have observed a good return on investment with Palantir Foundry, facilitating role transitions within our team and ultimately saving costs and time.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing has been on the higher side. I believe that if some features were made open source, it would improve accessibility and broaden its market reach beyond just large corporations.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
We explored other options before choosing Palantir Foundry, but ultimately, we decided to take a chance on it, and it has turned out positively.
What other advice do I have?
For deterministic outputs, Palantir Foundry performs as expected. However, for non-deterministic results, the responsibility lies with the LLMs we use, which can sometimes affect accuracy.
Palantir Foundry integrates perfectly with other tools I use. While there may be minor issues with external sources, the integrated tools such as IDE, VS Code, and Git operate seamlessly, making our workflow much more manageable compared to standalone tools.
The performance and speed of Palantir Foundry excel when handling large datasets and complex workflows, with the Foundry dataset significantly aiding in this aspect.
I advise prospective users that Palantir Foundry is an excellent solution for enterprises, but it should become accessible to a broader range of businesses at affordable prices to expand its user base.
My overall rating for this review is 8 out of 10.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Private Cloud
If public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud, which cloud provider do you use?
Microsoft Azure
Disclosure: My company does not have a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer.