That makes the role of data analyst a promising and in-demand career path. Professionals interested in starting a new career or advancing in their current role can benefit from understanding what data analysis entails and how data analysts differ from other similar job descriptions.

What Is Data Analysis?

Data analysis is the act of gathering and studying information to extract actionable insights. Businesses use the information collected and processed through data analysis to make better decisions. 

The modern glut of data presents both opportunities and complications for companies that want to make data-driven choices. While it’s easier than ever before to gather vast amounts of information, the sheer quantity of information makes it harder to collect relevant information and identify accurate trends. Data analysis allows these companies to refine the data they gather with methods like:

• Exploratory analysis: Looking for general trends in data without a specific goal in mind to find unexpected opportunities or risks.
• Descriptive analysis: Looking at a past event to understand what occurred.
• Diagnostic analysis: Looking at a past event to understand why it happened.
• Predictive analysis: Using past data to extrapolate probable future events.
• Prescriptive analysis: Using past data to explain why certain future events are probable and how they’ll happen.

Once the analysis is complete, companies have a clear overview of the topic. This is a firm foundation for making better decisions. However, it requires the work of dedicated data analysts to get to that point. It is important to remember that a data analyst turns the data into actionable information, thus creating value for the organization.

What Is a Data Analyst?

A data analyst specializes in gathering, modeling, and analyzing large amounts of data to answer questions. The goal of a data analyst is to break down a request or question into something that can be answered by data and then collect and study datasets to find that answer. Once they have found a solution, they may produce data visualizations and/or reports representing what they’ve learned. 

These analysts typically work for large organizations and focus on the information that the organization has or needs to collect. Depending on the data analyst job description, they may work with many types of information, from customer behavior data to logistics metrics to market research. 

Data Analyst vs Data Scientist

It’s important to understand that a data analyst is not the same as data scientist. The two roles are complementary, but their fundamental responsibilities are quite different. 

Data scientists and data analysts each focus on data but what they do with the data differs. For example, data analysts may analyze data to answer questions, solve business problems or create meaningful reports that help influence strategic decision making.  

Conversely, data scientists may design data modeling or machine learning processes or use other advanced techniques that extract and analyze large sets of structured and unstructured data to answer complex questions or predict future outcomes. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) defines the role of a data scientist as someone who develops and implements “a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software.”

Data Analyst vs Business Analyst

In the business world, data analysts and business analysts are also very similar. In many cases, the terms can be used interchangeably. Like a data analyst, a business analyst is a specialist who uses the principles and practices of data analysis to help their employer achieve their business goals. 

The primary difference between the two roles is that the term data analyst is slightly broader. A data analyst may also be found in academic settings, while business analysts are often found in company positions. However, someone working in business analysis typically has all the same knowledge and skills as a data analyst and applies them in a corporate context. 

What Does a Data Analyst Do?

Data analysts are responsible for understanding the questions they want to answer and determining the best way to find the truth. They must have a firm grounding in the mathematical and technical considerations involved in collecting and analyzing data effectively. These skills allow data analysts to work with a broad range of information and generate actionable insights. 

Regardless of the data with which they work, data analysts are typically responsible for the following: 

• Coordinating with business leadership to identify the organization’s needs
• Understanding and breaking down business needs into data-answerable questions
• Finding new sources of data 
• Gathering data from primary and secondary sources into datasets
• Filtering and cleaning datasets
• Applying statistical methods to datasets to identify trends or patterns
• Interpreting trends and patterns in datasets
• Generating reports on the results of data analysis to guide business decisions

What Tools Do Data Analysts Use?

Data analysts use a variety of data analysis tools to accomplish their responsibilities. These tools can include:

• Microsoft Excel: The most fundamental analysis tool is a spreadsheet capable of performing pivot tables. Microsoft Excel is capable of that and many other forms of analysis, making it essential for data analysts to perform their jobs. 
• Microsoft Power BI: This tool suite is a full-service business intelligence offering that provides analytics and data visualization. Analysts can use Microsoft Power BI to inspect their data and create reports. 
• SAS: The Statistical Analysis System (SAS) is a commercial business intelligence and data analytics suite designed to provide robust customer profiling, reporting and predictive modeling. Many analysts rely on SAS heavily. 
• Programming languages: To collect information, data analysts often write their own computer programs in languages like SQL, Python and R. Understanding these languages also allows analysts to write their own analytical programs.
• Apache Spark: For especially large datasets, it’s necessary to use dedicated data processing frameworks like Apache Spark. This program is an open-source solution that allows analysts to quickly process data that could take hours or days otherwise.

Data Analyst Salary and Job Outlook

Data analysts have an excellent job outlook, according to the (BLS). Its Occupational Outlook Handbook categorizes data analysts under the role of operation research analysts, though the fundamental responsibilities are the same. The BLS projects that the field will see a 25% growth rate over the next decade, which is significantly faster than the average rate of 8%. Furthermore, the demand for these positions has pushed median salaries to more than $86,000 annually. 

How To Become a Data Analyst

Becoming a data analyst is primarily a matter of education. The role heavily relies on understanding technical and mathematical concepts and the theory behind them. However, it’s equally necessary to demonstrate that understanding by applying it to real-world considerations. 

To become a successful data analyst, hopeful applicants will need to demonstrate they possess the practical knowledge and skills. This is typically accomplished by passing one of two certification exams: the Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA) or the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) tests. 

These two exams are offered through the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), a global organization that sets standards for business analysts worldwide.

Educational Requirements

Having an appropriate educational background is critical to passing the CCBA and CBAP exams, but more than one type of education can accomplish this. Those interested may consider both traditional bachelor’s degrees and certificate programs to earn the education they need. 

According to the BLS, at least a bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the occupation.  A certificate can also be an option for professionals who already have earned a bachelor’s degree or have a background in relevant fields like software development. Villanova University’s Certificate in Business Analysis helps students prepare for IIBA certification while teaching the fundamentals of analytics.

Data Analyst Skills

A data analyst will likely have a broad range of skills to apply to their career. Beyond a simple understanding of analytical techniques, they will also generally need to have an understanding of the following:

• Statistical programming
• SQL
• Microsoft Excel
• Presentation skills 
• Data visualization
• Critical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Data preparation
• Data warehousing and database management
• Machine learning

Data Analyst Career Path

Career paths are more flexible than many assume. However, the standard data analyst career path offers insight into what applicants expect from their roles. While the specific titles of each position may differ, the general responsibilities and seniority levels are structured as follows:

• Data Analyst Intern: Some analysts begin their career with a data analyst internship, though this is not required. An internship is most valuable for applicants without other business experience, such as new college graduates. Interns are typically responsible for the most basic tasks, including cleaning datasets and data entry. 
• Analyst I: The typical entry-level data analyst jobs areoften listed as “Analyst I.” Employees in this role are typically responsible for important but common tasks, such as collating data, generating visualizations, and performing basic SQL queries as part of exploratory analyses. This role is often filled by people who have recently earned their certification and don’t have other experience in business. Analyst I positions are excellent for gaining experience and learning to implement data analytics in the real world. 
• Analyst II: The next step up the ladder is an Analyst II role. These employees are granted additional responsibilities, including basic process automation and more in-depth analyses. Furthermore, Analyst II employees may not receive as much direct oversight during their work. Applicants with experience in related roles, such as software development or other industry-specific positions, may be able to start their new career in an Analyst II role. 
• Senior Analyst: The highest standard level of an analyst is a Senior Analyst. These employees often head teams of Analyst I and II employees and guide the research done by their department. Senior analysts have additional responsibilities, including developing reports to explain their findings and performing the most in-depth analyses. Furthermore, they are often responsible for top-level data management, including database creation and maintenance. 
• Management Analyst: Management analysts are not just responsible for analyzing external or customer data. They examine the management of an organization and typically specialize in a specific aspect of a business, such as inventory management or human resources, though some focus on niche industries instead. Many management analysts act as consultants after spending time as a senior analyst or an industry expert in their chosen field for some time. 
• Chief Technology Officer: Analysts who have dedicated themselves to their career path can rise to Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The detailed technical knowledge required to be a successful analyst acts as a firm foundation for understanding the other technology needs of the company. Furthermore, the ability to study and learn from data is a valuable skill for any C-suite employee.

Unlock New Possibilities with a Certificate in Business Analysis

Data analysts are in demand, and the current trend of data growth shows no sign of slowing. As an IIBA-Endorsed Education Provider, Villanova’s Certificate in Business Analysis supports the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK® Guide) and the curriculum is designed to enable learners to understand analytical methods, applications and data strategies to make better business decisions. 

Data visualization jobs involve the use of software that allows for the creation of useful data visuals without having to go through a developer. Those who hold these key positions help companies identify and apply data-based insights to make operations more effective and efficient.

It’s a useful skill in every industry, said Javier Leon, MBA, PMP, who teaches the Essentials of Data Visualization course within Villanova University’s College of Professional Studies. He tells students that anyone can benefit from adding data visualization to their skillset.

“I know people who work for newspapers that use data visualization and they do not come from an engineering or STEM background,” he said. “People in psychology could benefit from it. Even if you are trying to understand things about the election, you could very well use data visualization tools.”

Paths to Data Visualization Jobs

Those who specialize in data visualization jobs provide a key bridge between the IT department where data analysis occurs and the executive offices where strategic decisions are made. The improved software systems for data visualization allow easier review, comparison and sharing of data, even among those who do not understand how the data was extracted and analyzed.

While the job titles and duties may vary, the skills needed for a data visualization job include these important areas.

• Understanding how to create charts, graphs and tables using popular data visualization software from Tableau and Qlik
• Using Tableau and Qlik to create filters, KPIs and buttons
• Analyzing and populating worksheets with data
• Knowing best practices for creation of dashboards
• Knowing best practices for aligning business and IT

Skills involved in data analytics include critical thinking and problem solving, as well as math and communication skills. Specific data visualization jobs include the following:

Data Scientist

Data scientists develop analytics applications that transform data into actionable information through programming languages and visualization software. O*Net Online, a free job resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, reports that skills needed to become a data scientist include application of data mining, data modeling, natural language processing and machine learning, all used to collect and analyze structured and unstructured datasets. Data scientists then interpret that data and use data visualization to report the findings.

Jobs in the field paid an average salary of $94,280 in May 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). States with the largest number of data scientists include California, Illinois, Texas, New York and Ohio.

Data Visualization Engineer

Data visualization engineers focus on presenting data findings in a format that people without technical skills can understand. They need expertise in the various ways to present data to make visual representations that best reflect the type of data being shown and the audience. Skills in data warehousing are essential to the job. Data visualization engineers also can boost their career potential by knowing SQL and Python-based visualization programs.

PayScale lists the average pay nationwide for data visualization engineers at $98,264. 

Data Analyst

Data analyst is a broad term that can describe people who use data in many different areas, including management analysts, budget analysts and operations research analysts. The goal in each is the same: collecting and analyzing data to find insights that lead to improvements in the focus area (management, healthcare, etc.). 

The BLS reports an annual average salary of $84,810 for data analysts in May 2019.

Business Intelligence Analyst

Business intelligence analysts focus their analytics skills on finding trends in large datasets and using them to help drive better business strategy. A large part of the job involves using data visualization to present findings to stakeholders that include executives, managers and clients. They also use insights into data to make recommendations for actions by business leaders.

O*Net Online reports an annual average salary of $94,280 in this profession.

Many of the above jobs come with different titles and variations on job duties. They include:

• Data, Analytics and Visualization Engineer
• Consumer Insights Director
• Enterprise Data Steward
• Senior Consumer Insights Analyst
• Market Intelligence Analyst
• Strategic Business and Technology Intelligence Consultant

Whatever the job title, success in a data visualization job requires a mix of skills. Leon said data visualization incorporates business analysis, analytics and intelligence, as well as data mining. 

“When you have your information, your data, in front of you, you can very easily turn it into useful information – and actionable information,” Leon said. “And information that would also move you to action when you are looking at it. I really like that about data visualization.”

National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Information provided is not intended to represent a complete list of hiring companies or job titles, and certificate and degree program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.

That’s because one does not work well without the other. To be effective, data analytics and data visualization must work in tandem.

Data analytics involves using specialized software to collect and analyze large data sets with the goal of finding trends and gleaning insights. Data visualization involves presentation of the findings of data analytics in a way that even non-technical people will understand.

Both data analytics and data visualization are important parts of the same process. That process involves finding insights and presenting them in a way that supports data clarity and data-driven decision making.

What is Data Analytics?

Data analytics involves analyzing data sets to extract useful information that organizational leaders can use to make better decisions. It’s a process used in every area of business. Examples include understanding consumer behavior, improving marketing campaigns and personalizing content. In whatever area data analytics are applied, the goal is to increase effectiveness and efficiency, leading to a better bottom line.

As pointed out by Forbes, data analysis is exploratory and starts with specific questions, adding: “It requires curiosity, the desire to find answers and a good level of tenacity, because those answers aren’t always easy to come by.”

What is Data Visualization?

Data visualization involves presenting data through the use of visual representations. Forms of visualization include charts, graphs, maps, tables and comprehensive dashboards. The tools used in data visualization focus on taking insights from data analytics and making them accessible, allowing decision makers to understand the trends and patterns in the data. 

The goal of data visualization, according to Forbes, is to make presentations that “significantly reduce the amount of time it takes for your audience to process information and access valuable insights.”

Data Analytics and Data Visualization Uses and Benefits

The benefits of having experts in both data analytics and data visualization is clear. Without data visualization, insights derived from analysis are not well communicated to decision makers. And without in-depth analysis of data, the findings presented with data visualization are shallow and potentially obsolete.  

People in both positions have key roles to play in making data useful to organizations.

Uses of Data Visualization

Javier Leon, a project manager with Amazon Produce Network, said data visualization encompasses three areas: business analysis, business analytics and business intelligence. He added, “If you are really into it, it can also include data mining.”

Leon, who teaches Villanova University’s Essentials of Data Visualization course, has overseen the implementation of data visualization, databases and forecasting for Amazon. For his class, he creates data visualizations that show the flexibility and usefulness of data visualization in any area.

For example, he created data visualizations that show the cost of a night on the town at different locations around the world and where medication comes from for different conditions that include arthritis, pain, headaches and cholesterol.

While useful in almost any area, Leon said people who work in data visualization will do well to remember the advice of painter Bob Ross, who said no painting is ever perfect. “I believe that’s the same case when you are creating data visualizations,” Leon said.

Uses of Data Analytics

Virtually every business now has the ability to collect data. The job of data analytics is to analyze that information and extract insights that make the data useful for business leaders who then use it to make better strategic decisions. 

Data analytics provide the inputs needed to create data visualizations that are not obsolete or erroneous. Data analysts and data scientists need to understand how to work with statistics, create experiments and work with hypotheses, as taught in the Essentials of Data Visualization class. They also must have the ability to work with machine learning or artificial intelligence, advanced mathematics, and with at least one or two programming languages.

IBM reports that by using data analytics, “You can ultimately fuel better and faster decision-making, modelling and predicting future outcomes and enhanced business intelligence.”

The emergence of data visualization has also made it easier to get important information in front of decision makers.

Ellie Fields, senior vice president of product development at Tableau, which makes data visualization software, told U.S. News that data visualization software gives decision-makers more access to data insights. Before data visualization, “We definitely saw people who specialized in business intelligence or data or analytics, and that was their job, and everyone else was expected to send a request to those people and wait for reports back,” she said.

For those interested in data visualization, Leon offered this advice: keep reading.

“I believe that in order for you to keep growing, you need to keep reading, keep yourself always learning,“ he said. “One thing that I really like is for you to go see what other people are doing on public websites such as Tableau and Qlik’s portals, where you can see what other people are doing regarding different topics.”

Leon has had quite a colorful career trajectory. But he’s not focused on the past, but rather what he can learn and do next.

“I’m a very eclectic person. I like doing a little bit of everything,” Leon said in a recent interview.

Leon currently works as a project manager for Amazon Produce Network. He also teaches the Essentials of Data Visualization course 100% online for Villanova University. His road to these positions started in Venezuela.

Working As An Engineer at a Brewery

Leon started his academic career at the Universidad Católica Andrés Bello, one of the largest universities in Venezuela. He graduated with a degree in Industrial Engineering in 2009.

At work, he also began to develop an interest in technology and its uses in all phases of an operation. After graduation, he went to work with one of the largest breweries in Venezuela. While there, he was put in charge of the team that implemented Systems Applications and Products in Data Processing (SAP).

“We did over 155 implementations, which included all of the different modules of SAP, and in many different aspects such as manufacturing, distribution, sales, marketing, finance and HR,” Leon said.

But Leon also reached a point where he wanted to learn more, so he decided to come to the United States and earn an MBA. He did that, with a concentration in marketing, at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia where he graduated in 2015.

Applying His Education to the Real World

While working on his MBA, Leon worked with the Cochran Fellowship Program, which brings people from developing countries into the U.S. and teaches them best practices for retail, marketing, sales, and promotions, among other areas. All of it is based on the food and beverage industry, where Leon had years of experience.

Leon then took a job with Amazon Produce Network as a project manager, a position he still holds. He works with special projects, including the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), data visualization, databases and forecasting.

He also continued with his education and went on to earn a Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Analytics in 2017 and a Master of Science in Food Marketing in 2018.

As if multiple master’s degrees wasn’t enough, he then became a certified project management professional (PMP®) and has taught as an adjunct professor in business intelligence and business analytics classes at the advanced and intermediate level. For beginners, he’s taught statistics, data visualization and data-based programming.

Teaching the Essentials of Data Visualization Course

Leon recently developed and started teaching Villanova University’s new Essentials of Data Visualization course. He is passionate about data visualization, believing it can benefit anyone.

“I would say that the mindset behind a person that might be interested in data visualization is that of curiosity,” Leon said. “If you are a curious person and want to learn more about any topic in particular and you find ways to connect to honest and transparent data sources, you can do research on your own and put things to the test.”

He said people in certain fields simply must know how to use data visualization. He included those in STEM fields, as well as those aspiring to become a data scientist or project manager.

Students in the course get hands-on experience with Qlik and Tableau, two of the best-known software programs in the industry. They create their own visualizations, and learn how to produce different types of charts, graphs and key performance indicators.

Leon also brings his own experience to the job. 

“I try to relate how these tools are being used in real life. One very common thing that students will find is that I share from my portfolio of real-life projects that I’ve done with my company,” Leon said. “It allows students to see a real-life problem and a real-life solution and a person that they know who has been hired to solve that problem.”

Gestalt’s Principles of Visual Perception

Leon has been talking about Gestalt’s Principles of Visual Perception since his time at the brewery. He said he used to talk with grocery store managers about the principles in context of how to place children’s cereal or how to best display and pre-cut meat.

Leon discusses the principles with his class and uses them to explain how people perceive data. The basic theory is that people always look for patterns, something primitive man needed to understand the world around them. As Leon put it, “If something moves, I need to be alert. If something is a little bit off, that could be a tiger or a lion.”

People also tend to believe that things in groups are similar. For example, all the news articles in a highlighted box must be of high interest. Or three people standing together at a dinner party must be part of the same group.

He pointed out that the genius in Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks” painting is that the three customers in the diner – the only three customers in the diner – are not focusing on each other. They’re not touching or communicating with each other. Even the man behind the bar seems focused on something other than the patrons.

“One of the things that makes that painting so interesting is that when you look closely, you realize he basically plays with our notion of perception,” Leon said. He uses this to show students how to better group information in a way people expect.

The Benefits of Live Lectures

Leon said one of the many aspects he enjoys about teaching the course are the live lectures. He said they provide an opportunity to bring students together to share information.

“You can use them as a forum which you can get students to share with one another what their experiences are, what they have seen in their businesses or industries, best practices (and not so best practices), etc.,” Leon said. “They can also use them to expand on the knowledge they have received in the readings and videos, and of course, on the hands-on experience that they have been assigned.”

PMP is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.

That is the focus of data visualization and learning that skill is important for those looking to play a bigger role in determining their organization’s strategy and its implementation.

It’s also the focus of a new course within Villanova University’s College of Professional Studies taught by Javier Leon, an expert in the field who applies data visualization to his job with Amazon Produce Network. He also holds an MBA in Marketing, Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Business Analytics, Master of Science in Food Marketing and Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification.

The Essentials of Data Visualization course teaches students how to use the tools needed to create great data visualization – with state-of-the-art software such as Qlik and Tableau – as well as the best ways to leverage those tools in order to create value in their current jobs or help them change careers. It also serves as a great first step for anyone who wants to become a data scientist or who has an interest in STEM careers.

“Students are going to learn how data visualization can help in their careers, and they are going to be exposed to different data sets to improve their skills with data visualization tools and software,” Leon said. “They will also learn the best practices to be followed when creating beautiful, actionable, performance dashboards.”

How is Data Visualization Used?

Data visualization aims to create visuals that provide actionable insights for decision makers. That includes those at the strategic, tactical and operational levels. 

Reports created by those without data visualization skills can lead to a stat-heavy presentation that may overwhelm the audience, obfuscating the very point the presenter is attempting to make. By using data visualization tools and techniques, it’s possible to create engaging presentations that drive home the main insights from a report in a memorable way.

Visual presentations tend to work better because the human brain processes visual information better than text. Citing research into the issue, the American Management Association reported that about 60% of the population are visual learners. They also noted that:

• An overview map, one of the foundational tools of visual presentation, leads to faster decision-making by those who watch a presentation
• Visual presentations tend to shorten meetings by as much as 24%
• Groups using visual language experience a 21% increase in their ability to reach a consensus compared to groups who use no visuals
• Written information is 70% more memorable when combined with visuals

These advantages make those who learn visual presentation skills an important member of project teams for organizations across all industries.

What are the Benefits of Learning About Data Visualization?

To make successful presentations, it’s critical to understand best practices about data visualization techniques, become adept at using the different tools available and understand the most relevant concepts about visual perception. 

Leon said learning these skills applies to people in all industries as data analysis has become a part of almost every competitive organization. He said data visualization “is an area of knowledge that encompasses three things: business analysis, business analytics and business intelligence. If you are really into it, it can also include data mining, forecasting and data science.”

Those who learn how to use data visualization place themselves in a position to improve their organization and their careers. By using effective visuals to tell stories, they can share new opportunities and insights with business leaders. Data visualization also can lead to organizations making changes faster in response to shifts in the market.

Creating visual dashboards supports better tracking of business initiatives and makes it easier for decision-makers to have an “at-a-glance” understanding of where things stand. As Leon said, “When you have your information, your data, in front of you, you can very easily turn it into useful information – and actionable information. And information that would also move you to action when you are looking at it.”

No matter what industry you work in, there’s a need for better reporting and understanding of your organization’s data. Through data visualization, this can be achieved in a manner that is not possible with spreadsheets, standard enterprise resource planning (ERP) or customer relationship management (CRM) reports. That includes the STEM fields, government, media, marketing, finance, education, service industries and consumer goods. 

Those who develop data visualization skills position themselves to play a key role in helping organizations choose the best path forward for future success.

PMP is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.

The course prepares students to use data visualization in tracking progress toward organizational goals at the strategic, tactical and operational levels.

Students will learn how to apply data visualization principles and theories to real-world situations. They will also learn best practices for telling stories using data and learn how to use data visualization tools to build at-a-glance dashboards. Students will also create their own data visualizations in class, allowing them to build a data visualization portfolio that can be used outside of the classroom.

The Essentials of Data Visualization course is ideal for professionals from a variety of backgrounds, including business, the liberal arts or the sciences. People from all career fields can use strong skills in data storytelling to bolster their career possibilities.

A Course for Those with a Curious Mindset

Javier Leon, MBA, PMP, the Villanova faculty member who developed and teaches the course, said data visualization can help anyone with an interest in using data to tell their story. 

“I would say that the mindset behind a person that might be interested in data visualization is that of curiosity,” Leon said. “If you are a curious person and want to learn more about any topic in particular and find ways to connect to honest and transparent data sources, you can do research on your own and put things to the test.”

He added that students in the course receive hands-on experience with two of the best-known software in the industry – Qlik and Tableau. Students who complete the course will have a better understanding of data visualization’s power. 

“When you have your information, your data, in front of you, you can very easily turn it into useful information – and actionable information. And information that would also move you to action when you are looking at it,” Leon said. “I really like that about data visualization.”

What Students Will Learn in Data Visualization

Working with Qlik and Tableau, students will create graphs, charts and dashboards. They will learn to segregate and create data reports for all stakeholders, with as much granularity as they need. Students also will learn how to measure success by setting strategic key performance indicators.

Learning modules in the Essentials in Data Visualization course include:

• Introduction to Performance Dashboards and Scorecards
• Business and IT Alignment/Types of Performance Dashboards
• Understanding Strategic, Tactic and Operational Dashboards
• Creating Dashboards and Data Visualizations with Qlik
• Best Practices for Creating Performance Metrics and Performance Dashboards
• Creating Dashboards and Data Visualizations with Tableau
• Opportunities for Data Visualization Reporting in the Industry
• Other Software Packages and Future Trends

Benefits of Learning About Data Visualization

Those who work in technology, finance, healthcare and government can all benefit from developing expertise in data visualization. 

Leon said that those who work in STEM-related fields, statistics, technology, engineering, math and project management all need to understand how to use data visualization. But he added that those who do not come from engineering or STEM backgrounds can also benefit, such as psychologists or those who work in the media.

“What I love about data visualization is the fact that it teaches you things you didn’t know you didn’t know. You can be a genius in Excel, and you wouldn’t be able to do the things we can do with data visualization,” said Leon.

Further, Leon said the class will help people discern “whether or not what you are receiving in the news, for example, told by other people, etc., is correct.”

Faculty Expertise

Leon holds an MBA, a Master of Science in Business Intelligence and Analytics, a Master of Science in Food Marketing and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)®. A firm believer in continuous education, Leon has worked with data and analytics from his first job at a brewery in his native Venezuela to his current position as a project manager with Amazon Produce Network.

Leon said students can benefit from his experience. In the course, he offers examples of how he used data visualization to benefit companies where he has worked. “It allows students to see a real-life problem and a real-life solution and a person that they know who has been hired to solve that problem,” Leon said.

He also connects abstract numbers to real-world situations. He said that most people don’t realize that something as commonplace as a mango has a wealth of statistics, numbers and formulas behind it.

“Formulas were created to assess the value of the mango and statistics are used to understand how to tell whether or not the rain is going to affect the aesthetics of the mangos,” Leon said. “I believe that when I show them and expose them to this information, they realize the value of what they are learning.”

PMP is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.

The example above describes a SWOT Analysis, and it serves as one of the most powerful tools in business.

Elements of a SWOT Analysis

Determining the best direction for your business is like buying a home. It’s helpful to break the situation down into four distinct quadrants, which are Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

• Strengths – List out the things your company does better than its competitors. Include strengths that are both internal and external.
• Weaknesses – Think about all the areas in which your company could improve. Why are you losing sales? What behaviors are hurting business? What are the weaknesses you can’t see from inside the organization?
• Opportunities – Look at your strengths and ask yourself if those open up any potential opportunities for your business. And conversely, look at your weaknesses. Can you create new opportunities for your company by eliminating any specific weakness?
• Threats – Figure out the challenges that stand in the way of your goals. What common mistakes have your competitors made? How’s your cash flow? What are the primary threats to your business?

A SWOT Analysis allows businesses to identify the forces that influence a strategy, action or initiative and is used as support when making business-critical decisions.

When and Why You Should Do a SWOT Analysis

Understanding the strengths, weaknesses and direction of your organization isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a must in business. If you’re planning on implementing new policies, investing money into research and development, improving processes, or making any significant change in your business or personal life, it’s worth your time to conduct a SWOT Analysis.

When performing you SWOT Analysis, enlist the help of others within your organization or department. Involve relevant and active stakeholders to help provide an all-encompassing view rather than one person’s viewpoint in every section. With a group, you can find trends, patterns and connections between quadrants. You can shine light on your blind spots and discover paths of opportunity you never knew existed.

And, just like the last time you packed up and moved, you can reposition your business in a way that achieves your business analysis goals and improves your situation.

Most of the time, the insights garnered by business analysts include the need for change in organizational structure, process or technology. Once needs are carefully outlined, an organization can accurately determine the right course of action for future progress. Business analysts are relied upon to assist in the development of this roadmap and often serve in a trusted advisory role to the organization.

Business Analyst Duties & Requirements

The roles and responsibilities of a business analyst can be quite extensive depending on the organization, project or situation. Their critical responsibilities typically include an in-depth understanding of the knowledge areas as outlined in the International Institute of Business Analysis’ (IIBA^®), Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK^®) and whether the projects in development are change-driven or plan-driven.

Knowledge areas can include business analysis planning and monitoring, elicitation, requirements management and communication, enterprise analysis, requirements analysis and solution assessment and validation. Business analysts are considered stakeholders in projects they are involved in and are accountable for maintaining their level of effort to consistently evaluate risks or issues and contribute to the project’s needs.

What’s Being Offered?

Villanova University offers business analysis training through a certificate program, 100% online. With the Certificate in Business Analysis, business professionals can gain the skills to identify, analyze, develop and improve the business requirements crucial to drive information technology-related projects for an organization.

Each course is designed for individuals with an interest in problem-solving and analytics, and with a desire to develop the skills to become an effective business analyst, and achieve an understanding of an organization and its operations. In this field, it is critical that business analysts develop effective communication and information systems across all organizational departments to help ensure cost-effective, reliable, consistent, high-quality and efficient program results.

Course Information

The Certificate in Business Analysis consists of three courses, including two required business analysis courses (Essentials of Business Analysis and Mastering Business Analysis) and an elective of the student’s choice. Elective options include:

• Essentials of Business Intelligence
• Essentials of Business Process Management
• Essentials of Cybersecurity
• Essentials of Data Visualization
• Essentials of Project Management
• Foundations of Agile Methodology
• Maximizing Team Effectiveness

All courses are professor-led and include interactive class discussions, online streaming audio and video, chat rooms and weekly live class sessions. In addition, this certificate program can help to prepare professionals for the industry-recognized Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP^®) or Certification of Capability in Business Analysis (CCBA^®) exams offered through the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA^®)

The CBAP consists of 150 total questions, all of which are formatted as multiple choice. The exam is based on the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK) Guide as well as other resources referenced within the publication. Topics can consist of both comprehension and situational analysis. Comprehension questions are typically based on an individual’s understanding of business analysis basics and definitions while the situational analysis questions may require an individual to apply their analysis experience to select the correct answer. Questions cover a range of Blooms taxonomy and candidates are allowed up to three and a half hours to complete the full exam.

Scoring for the CBAP exam is based on a cut score process followed by exam administrators once the test is developed. While the pass rate and cut score for each exam is not released publically, those who take the exam have their raw scores normalized on a standardized scoring scale. Individuals must have a minimum score of 500 to pass the exam.

While preparing for CBAP can seem like a daunting task, it can be helpful to know a few tips that can help ease the process. Here are five study points to follow that may help candidates prepare for the exam.

1. Decide on a Goal

Determine a realistic timeframe to prepare for the exam and set it as your goal. Whether it is a monthly or weekly goal, this can help set the course for a more structured preparation timeline and a more targeted deadline. Candidates can also register for the exam in advance to ensure their commitment and motivation to their study and preparation goals.

2. Gather the Right Study Resources

Although the exam is based on the BABOK Guide, business analysts may find it helpful to gather a variety of CBAP study guides, as they may be easier resources to read, comprehend and aid in enhancing a candidate’s understanding of specific scenarios and concepts in the business analysis field. Once guides are utilized, studying the BABOK Guide may be less overwhelming due to the context and knowledge gained from related study materials.

3. Know the BABOK Guide

Although it may be helpful to read other resource guides, the BABOK guide is where most of the questions come from. It provides candidates with the essential elements needed to prepare for the exam. It’s recommended that individuals ensure they have a complete knowledge of all the terms, definitions and six knowledge areas in the guide. In addition, it’s often recommended to study the tasks, inputs, outputs and techniques associated with these knowledge areas.

4. Use a Practice Exam Simulator

Using an exam simulator to practice can prove to be beneficial in the preparation process. By taking the practice exam, candidates are able to determine the specific knowledge areas in which they need more study. Practice tests can also help candidates read and retain information located in the BABOK Guide.

5. Consider Exam Training

Exam candidates may opt to attend a training program as they prepare to take the exam. Training sessions can provide a clear outline of the exam topics, detailed key pointers for passing the exam and tips for a faster-studying process.

Passing this exam and earning the designation of CBAP is often the highest distinction that can be earned within the business analysis field. In addition, organizations can place a high value on the knowledge and expertise business analysis professionals can provide to their companies.