how can you change from a tourist visa to a permanent resident visa

Most immigration to this country comes about through family sponsorship, employment-based sponsorship, asylum or investment. These all generally take time. I suggest that if your friend is truly interested in exploring his or her options for a green card, he or she should take the time to make an appointment with a reputable immigration attorney to discuss the options.  

Changing from B1/2 to permanent resident requires that one be eligible for permanent resident status.  That, in turn, typically requires a family member who is a citizen or permanent resident who can petition for the person to become a permanent resident.  Sometimes there is a very long wait, depending on the circumstances.  Another option is for an employer who cannot recruit any citizens or legal residents to perform a job to petition for a foreign worker to fill the position.  Employment-based permanent residency is hard because most positions can be filled by citizens or permanent residents, making them unavailable to foreign workers.