The data analyst profession is one of the professions companies are starting to pay attention to because of the flow of technology and big data.
The existence of this data analyst is essential. Because with data analysts, we can understand data origins and distortions by analyzing available data.
Differences of Business Analyst and Data Analyst
Business Analyst and Data Analyst. The role of a data analyst is likened to a GPS in a car. GPS can direct us to that place according to the point when we want to go somewhere.
In addition, sometimes they also run alternative routes if the main courses experience congestion. As with data analysts, they will carry out the process of data collection and analysis by the current conditions of a company. Therefore, the role of a data analyst is vital for companies.
One word sticks out about the data analyst position: analyst. Many kinds of positions use the word analyst in their work, such as financial analysts, marketing analysts, and data analysts. But even though the names are the same as analysts, their duties and responsibilities differ.
This difference is based on the focus of the work being done, even though they both have the task of analyzing data. As a simple example, the marketing analyst position will have a different job from that of a data analyst. Even though they both hold data, the data types must also differ.
Business Analyst and Data Analyst: Skills Required!
Now, after knowing the differences in the responsibilities of a Business Analyst and a Data Analyst, you must also understand the different skills that both must master.
In general, because both are tasked with conveying the results of data processing, they require good communication skills. In addition, work that cannot be done alone also requires both of them to have the ability to cooperate with other people.
Well, the difference is in the hard skills.
Things that data analysts must master include:
- Data Analysis
- SQL (Structured Query Language)
- Tableau
- Python
- Management and maintain data quality
Meanwhile, the skills that a business analyst must master are:
- Business Analysis
- Business process
- Project Management
- SQL (Structured Query Language)
- solution to problem
Due to differences in emphasis on responsibilities, skills are mandatory mastered by both are different.
Business analysts emphasize the business aspects of data, although they still have to master various tools for data analysis. Meanwhile, data analysts who emphasize data aspects, demand more tools to process and manage data.
What Do Data Analyst Do?
Data analysts are responsible for collecting, organizing, and interpreting large amounts of data to inform business decisions. They work closely with business leaders and stakeholders to identify areas of concern and collect relevant data.
They then clean and prepare the data for analysis, using various tools and techniques to uncover patterns and trends. Once the data is analyzed, they use visualization tools to make the information more understandable and present their findings in a clear and compelling way.
Overall, data analysts play a crucial role in enabling businesses to make informed decisions based on data-driven insights.
So that you know the duties and responsibilities of a Data Analyst more clearly, here is the scope of work:
- Build and implement databases and data collection systems
- Help management to identify crucial metrics or KPIs, and prioritize them according to business needs
- Collect data from primary or secondary sources
- Filter and clean data
- Identify, analyze, and interpret trends and patterns in complex data sets
- Visualize and present findings or reports to stakeholders
- Create and revise reports
- Create and maintain data documentation
What Does Business Analyst Do?
Business analysts are responsible for identifying and addressing issues and opportunities within an organization. They begin by assessing the current performance and structure of the company, including its processes and IT systems.
By reviewing data and interviewing staff, they identify areas for improvement and develop recommendations for management and other stakeholders. They use visual aids and financial models to support their findings and proposals.
Additionally, they may also provide training and guidance to staff on new systems and processes that have been implemented based on their recommendations.
Business Analyst play a key role in helping organizations improve their performance and achieve their goals by providing strategic and data-driven insights.
In addition, in general, the responsibilities of a Business Analyst include several things such as:
- Identify business needs
- Understand how technology solutions are implemented and create plans to use them efficiently for business purposes
- Make detailed business analysis, define business requirements, outline problems, and discuss solutions for operational or technical changes
- Collaborate with the project manager and communicate project progress to stakeholders
- Track and validate solutions and measure changes in value to the organization for further improvement
Education Required
Business and data analysts play important roles in organizations by analyzing data and providing insights to inform business decisions.
They come from a variety of academic backgrounds, but most companies require at least a bachelor’s degree. Business analysts typically have a degree in a business-related field, such as finance or management, while data analysts often have degrees in STEM fields like statistics, mathematics, or computer science.
Earning a graduate degree, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s in Data Science, can help candidates stand out in the job market and open up opportunities for advancement in their careers.
These advanced degrees provide specialized knowledge and skills that are highly valued by employers in the business and data analytics fields.
Additionally, professional certifications such as Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) or Certified Data Professional (CDP) can also enhance one’s qualifications and increase chances for career advancement.
Business Analyst Salaries
Business analyst salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, industry, and level of experience. On average, a business analyst in the United States can expect to earn a salary in the range of $60,000 to $90,000 per year.
However, some business analysts, particularly those with advanced skills and experience, may earn significantly more.
Additionally, compensation for business analysts may also include bonuses and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
Data Analyst Salaries
Data analyst salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, industry, and level of experience. On average, a data analyst in the United States can expect to earn a salary in the range of $60,000 to $130,000 per year.
However, entry-level data analysts may earn less, while those with advanced skills and experience may earn significantly more.
Additionally, compensation for data analysts may also include bonuses and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.