The job duties of a Data Analyst involve being responsible for handling and managing data. Data use can be traced back to the ancient world. Indeed, the first evidence of data collection dates back to early human civilization. At that time pictures and caricature images were used to keep track of and collect data. With the evolution of the world and advancements in science, the process of data collection and analysis has become more complex.
As a result, the role of a data analyst has become crucial across most industries. The information that data analysts provide allows organisations track and review the health, growth and development of their businesses and systems. Moreover, fulfilment of the job duties of a data analysts provides these organisations with information that gives them hindsight and foresight needed to up scale and even dominate their industries. Various companies like Apple, Google and Amazon have historically leveraged data for business purposes. Thus, this has contributed to the impact they have in their various industries.
Data is an essential asset not just in business but also in fields like science, research etc. In this context, we’ll be exploring the job duties of a Data Analyst.
Job Duties of a Data Analyst
1) Data Collection
Data collection is the first step in the data analysis process. Indeed, It is one of the most important duties of a Data Analyst. This stage involves gathering data from various sources which could be primary, secondary or a combination of both.
As a result of technological advances, data collection can be simply carried using software tools especially with the collection of large volumes of complex data. Furthermore, it is the duty of the data analyst to ensure that data being collected is accurate and comprehensive enough to produce reliable information.
2) Data Cleaning and Organisation
After data collection, the next step is cleaning up duplicates and errors present in the data. Data analysts carefully rid the collected data of errors through a process known as data wrangling.
Specifically, Data Cleaning involves removing inaccuracies, sorting out missing or incomplete figures, coding and organising the data into a usable format to make analysis easier and more accurate. Software like Microsoft Access, Python, and SQL can make this process easier.
3) Data Analysis
This is the core responsibility of a Data analyst. Data analysis involves the Data analysis using statistical methods and series of tests to identify any patterns, correlations or relationships present in the data. Typically, this process mostly requires the use of analytical software such as SPSS or Microsoft Excel. Data analysts may also use advanced software like Python depending on the what is to be achieved. This software help present data in tables and charts for easy interpretation. Notably, Data Analysts apply statistical methods and tests like Hypothesis testing, Association, and Correlation to the data.
4) Data Interpretation
Data that analysts analyze but do not interpret is not of much use. The Data Analyst understands and translates the complex data into what the average person can understand. This step converts data from complex figures into useful information used to make decisions and take actions.
Furthermore, the Data Analyst presents the Analysed and interpreted data in the form of a report to convey their findings. Data Analysts use Tableau to display data in the form of visualizations for clear and easy comprehension.
5) Data reporting and Presentation
Following data Interpretation, Data analysts must also report analysed Data and clearly communicate their findings to stakeholders. This involves creating presentations that explain the results of data analysis in details. Moreover, It is very important that the Data Analyst possess excellent communication skills to present these findings clear enough for the average person to understand. This allows the stakeholders to understand the findings and make informed decisions concerning the best steps to take next.
6) Development and Implementation of Data Collection Systems
Data Analysts greatly involve themselves in creating Data collecting Systems. They work closely with the IT department to development systems that collect accurate and valuable data effectively. Usually, this process includes setting up databases and ensuring that the data collected is valuable and useful to the organization. Consequently, Data Analysts must know how to use data management tools such as SQL and Oracle.
7) Prediction Analytics
Another important duty of a data analyst is the ability to perform Predictive analytics. This simply refers to being able to use previous results or findings to make future predictions concerning an issue.
This can be using the aid of tool like artificial to consider various hypothetical scenarios and calculate the risk of an action and possible future trends. Therefore, a data analyst should have a solid knowledge of how to operate these advanced technologies.
Conclusion
The job Duties of a Data Analyst require excellent Analytical skills, communication skills, Technical skills, problem-solving skills and great attention to detail. Additionally, the job also requires great collaborative skills because analysts usually work closely with teams. As technology advances, the demand for reliable and competent data analysts keeps rising. The job role is dynamic and provides an excellent career path if you love handling data.