Finding the right data analyst is essential for your business, akin to having a proficient navigator guiding your ship through the expansive sea of information.
From improving marketing tactics to forecasting market shifts and even propelling advancements in healthcare, data analysis is pivotal in decision-making across diverse industries.
But what specific attributes must a data analyst possess? This guide aims to uncover just that.
What Does a Data Analyst Do?
Data analytics consultants offer valuable expertise and guidance to businesses in areas such as improving data analysis processes, selecting appropriate solutions, and identifying insights.
They may assist with tasks like evaluating the data processes, implementing solutions, educating teams, and identifying opportunities.
According to a teacher of data analytics courses in Singapore, their skills also encompass data management, analysis, modeling, and security, tailored to meet specific business needs.
Why Should You Hire a Data Analytics Expert?
Before diving into collaboration, most data analysts typically prefer to begin by delving into and comprehending the specific requirements of the company they’re working with.
In addition to this, they might also offer their expertise on –
1: Identifying the Needs of Your Business
Typically, this entails a thorough discussion with key stakeholders like the CEO, marketing head, and possibly IT leaders, depending on current infrastructure.
The aim is for the consultant to grasp your primary challenges, existing processes, and desired data utilization for strategic insights.
For instance, the CMO might seek enhanced channel attribution to identify the most effective advertising platform.
2: Reviewing Your Data Flow
The consultant will likely seek access to your data, which is often spread across various sources in enterprises, particularly in eCommerce.
This information can include website traffic, advertising platform metrics, customer information, warehouse and sales data, as well as billing and shipping records, among others.
Their aim is to thoroughly analyze this data to understand your current metrics, identify missing data, and suggest ways to enhance data collection and analysis.
For example, they might help create a concise, visually appealing monthly report for the CEO to share with shareholders. Currently, compiling such reports is time-consuming due to information scattered across multiple sources, leaving little room for deeper analysis.
A data analytics consultant can streamline this process for efficiency.
3: Organizing All Your Data and Evaluating It
The subsequent phase involves the extraction and meticulous organization of data, aiming to delve into the reasons behind existing issues, point areas ripe for enhancement, and experiment with various hypotheses.
Data consultants will properly examine your data, distill their discoveries, and propose strategies to elevate your operations, enrich customer interactions, fine-tune marketing efforts, or achieve any other desired objectives.
4: Automate the Assessment Process
The consultant will focus on automating the entire analysis process to ensure its accuracy and sustainability for the team beyond the consultant’s contract period.
This could include creating automated reports and dashboards for stakeholders, setting up alerts for timely notifications of data anomalies or significant changes, and enhancing data integration solutions while providing training on best data practices for the team.
5: Getting Help with Data Analysis Tools
Your data analyst needs expertise in utilizing dedicated software and tools tailored for data analysis. For instance, your company might utilize a Vonage VoIP system for small businesses, generating extensive data on call metrics and customer interactions.
Proficiency in tools such as Excel, Python, R, or specialized software like Tableau is crucial for extracting insights.
These insights have the potential to yield substantial benefits for your business.
For instance, PepsiCo achieved remarkable time savings in report generation, up to 90%, upon adopting Tableau.
Summarizing It Up!
Hiring a data analytics consultant can offer numerous advantages to your business, including alleviating stress and reducing time-consuming tasks for your team.
Additionally, it can also enhance customer experience, loyalty, and revenue. Consultants serve as valuable allies in reaching your objectives, with their success tied to yours.
By carefully choosing the right analytics consultant, optimizing the relationship, and effectively implementing their strategies, your business can fully leverage the potential of data.
