Introduction
Big Data analysis has radically transformed the way businesses and organizations make decisions. The power of data utilization is not limited to monitoring trends but extends to the creation of innovative products and services. This provides companies with a competitive advantage, enabling them to adapt more quickly to market needs. At the same time, the increasing demand for data analysis drives the development of new information technologies and advanced analytical methods.
Knowledge and Skills in the Field of Business Data Analytics (BDA)
The profession of a Business Data Analyst requires a set of skills structured into three main areas. The first area is the business domain, which includes communication skills, project management, time management, and customer orientation. A data analyst is not limited to statistics or technology but is called to deeply understand the organization’s needs and translate them into concrete actions that support decision-making.
The second area is the analytical domain, which focuses on the ability to define problems, analyze them, and develop solutions. In this context, predictive analytics plays an important role, aiming to estimate future trends, as well as integrative analysis, which uses multiple data sources to create a holistic picture. The analyst must be able to process and interpret complex information in a way that supports strategic decisions.
The third area is the technical domain, which involves the use of applications, programming languages, and infrastructures that facilitate the management of large volumes of data. This includes applications such as Excel and SAS, programming languages like R, Python, and SQL, as well as storage and processing technologies such as Hadoop, Cassandra, and Oracle. Without this technical expertise, data analysis cannot move forward effectively.
Knowledge and Skills in the Field of Data Science (DS)
The field of Data Science is closely related to Business Data Analytics, yet it focuses more on analytical methods and the development of tools. The key pillars of knowledge and skills in Data Science begin with data preprocessing, storage, and retrieval, which includes processes of modeling and cleaning data to make them ready for use. Next comes data mining, statistical analysis, and visualization, that is, exploring information through statistical methods and presenting it in a clear and actionable way for decision-makers.
A third pillar involves analytical models and algorithms. At this stage, data scientists develop and apply machine learning models and artificial intelligence techniques capable of predicting events, identifying trends, or optimizing processes. Finally, an essential element is the concept of the data product and application development, since analysis must be transformed into practical tools that support both the daily operation of businesses and their strategic growth.
Convergence and Complementarity
Despite their differences, the fields of Business Data Analytics and Data Science are deeply interconnected and often function in a complementary manner. The first emphasizes the business interpretation of data and decision-making based on insights, while the second focuses on the development of technological solutions, research, and the creation of analytical models. Combined, these two fields form a comprehensive framework of skills that enables companies to better understand the past, monitor the present, and more accurately predict the future.
Conclusion
Business Data Analysis has become an indispensable tool for organizational growth and competitiveness. The skills required for its successful implementation combine business thinking, analytical ability, and technical expertise. Data Science reinforces this field by providing advanced methods, algorithms, and technological solutions. The convergence of these two approaches creates the conditions for better decision-making, greater innovation, and sustainable growth. In a world where data is increasing exponentially, its proper utilization becomes a cornerstone for business success.