Data Analyst Perform
Generally, the Data Analyst works with information matrices, executing a whole set of functions independently: data collection; preparing data for analysis (sampling, cleaning, classification); finding patterns in information sets; data visualization to quickly understand current results and upcoming trends; formulate hypotheses to improve specific business metrics by modifying other indicators.
These tasks are necessary to achieve the main objective of the data analyst: to extract valuable information so that the company can make optimal management decisions.
The data analyst is also in charge, in some companies, of data modeling, that is, of developing and testing machine learning models ( Machine Learning ). However, in the vast majority of cases, machine learning is the responsibility of a researcher or data scientist. In a more clear division of work, machine learning is the responsibility of an independent specialist.
Also, note that the data analyst sometimes examines business processes and works closely with other IT professionals in describing the flow and storage of corporate information. Therefore, the data analyst’s responsibility includes Business Intelligence (BI) and production process optimization tasks.
Competencies Of A Data Analyst
Based on the set of tasks previously described, it is possible to identify the following areas of knowledge required for a data analyst:
- Information technology with methods and tools for data mining (Data Mining), programming languages (R, Python, etc.), and SQL-like languages to write queries to non-relational and relational databases, as well as systems of BI, ETL storage, and data marts like Tableau, Power BI, QlikView, etc., as well as the basics of the Apache Hadoop infrastructure.
- Mathematics such as statistics, probability theory, and discrete mathematics.
- Systems analysis, quality management, project management, and business process analysis methods (Lean Manufacturing Approaches, SWOT, PDCA, IDEF, EPC, BPMN, MTP, etc.).
On the other hand, applied knowledge and practical experience specific to the subject area in which the data analyst works will be instrumental. For example, accounting fundamentals will be useful for a data analyst in a bank, and marketing methods will help analyze customer needs or assess new markets.
Data Analyst Functions
The functions of the data analyst lie at the confluence of mathematics, programming, and product management. As a result of your work, a company can generate more income and make consumers feel more satisfied. The duties of a data predictor may vary by workplace and skill level.
Typically, this specialist runs statistical tests and solves business problems for which there is still no answer. Then he makes forecasts, strategies, plans, and recommendations.
The Usual Activity Of A Data Analyst Is:
Establish communication with company representatives and identify problem areas within the company.
- It collects information so that the activities of the company can remain tracked.
- Formulate hypotheses to improve some parameters.
- Prepare data for analysis: classify, filter, and take samples.
- Identify patterns.
- Visualize the data: translate statistics and Big Data into visual graphs and conclusions.
- Suggest solutions that remain used for project or business development.
Based on the data provided by the data analyst, the company can make any business decision.
Personal Qualities Of A Data Analyst
A good data analyst is not limited to metrics and reports. Regardless of the profile, a great professional must have the agile skills they need to be productive:
The thinking and logic of systems. In this sense, it remains needed to analyze, synthesize, compare and draw conclusions from patterns that are sometimes not obvious. The analyst must understand the assumptions on which his judgments remain based and verify that they are correct.
Attention to detail, methodology, and rational skepticism. The analyzes must be verified, reviewed, and justified. It is better to clarify vague details and challenge even the most authoritative opinion than launch an unnecessary product.
Courtesy, communication, and storytelling skills. Analysts communicate with professionals in different areas: business, IT, accounting, and security. It is wise to maintain a constructive and polite approach, avoiding provocation and pressure on your department.
Pragmatism and business approach. In this case, you need to focus on the issues that will improve business performance: increase revenue, reduce costs, and streamline processes.
The desire to learn. Every good analyst wants to learn new things and broaden their horizons.
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