Introduction to Data Analytics for Business from Coursera

This course will expose you to the data analytics practices executed in the business world. We will explore such key areas as the analytical process, how data is created, stored, accessed, and how the organization works with data and creates the environment in which analytics can flourish.

What you learn in this course will give you a strong foundation in all the areas that support analytics and will help you to better position yourself for success within your organization. You’ll develop skills and a perspective that will make you more productive faster and allow you to become a valuable asset to your organization.

This course also provides a basis for going deeper into advanced investigative and computational methods, which you have an opportunity to explore in future courses of the Data Analytics for Business specialization.

What's inside

Syllabus

Data and Analysis in the Real World

Welcome to week 1! In this module we’ll learn how to think about analytical problems and examine the process by which data enables analysis & decision making. We’ll introduce a framework called the Information-Action Value chain which describes the path from events in the world to business action, and we’ll look at some of the source systems that are used to capture data. At the end of this course you will be able to: Explain the information lifecycle from events in the real world to business actions, and how to think about analytical problems in that context , Recognize the types of events and characteristics that are often used in business analytics, and explain how the data is captured by source systems and stored using both traditional and emergent technologies, Gain a high-level familiarity with relational databases and learn how to use a simple but powerful language called SQL to extract analytical data sets of interest, Appreciate the spectrum of roles involved in the data lifecycle, and gain exposure to the various ways that organizations structure analytical functions, Summarize some of the key ideas around data quality, data governance, and data privacy

Analytical Tools

In this module we’ll learn about the technologies that enable analytical work. We’ll examine data storage and databases, including the relational database. We’ll talk about Big Data and Cloud technologies and ideas like federation, virtualization, and in-memory computing. We’ll also walk through a landscape of some of the more common tool classes and learn how these tools support common analytical tasks.

Data Extraction Using SQL

In this module we’ll learn how to extract data from a relational database using Structured Query Language, or SQL. We’ll cover all the basic SQL commands and learn how to combine and stack data from different tables. We’ll also learn how to expand the power of our queries using operators and handle additional complexity using subqueries.

Real World Analytical Organizations

In this module we focus on the people and organizations that work with data and actually execute analytics. We’ll discuss who does what and see how organizational structures can influence efficiency and effectiveness. We’ll also look at the supporting rules & processes that help an analytical organization run smoothly, like Data Governance, Data Privacy, and Data Quality.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines how data enables decision-making

Introduces the Information-Action Value chain for understanding analytical problems

Provides a strong foundation in all areas that support analytics

Develops skills and perspectives for increased productivity

Introduces SQL for data extraction from relational databases

Reviews summary

Data analytics for business learners' choice

Learners say that the Introduction to Data Analytics for Business course is a welcoming introduction to the field, swiftly equipping them with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for their data science journey.

Positive feedback from learners.

"E"

Focuses on building a solid foundation.

"E"

"Really a good introductory course for data science and analytics."

Concepts are presented well.

"Contents are easy to understand"

"the lecturer communicates the idea pretty well"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Data Analytics for Business with these activities:

Attend industry conferences

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Expand your network, learn from experts, and gain valuable insights into the latest data analytics practices by attending industry conferences.

Browse courses on Networking

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Identify relevant industry conferences and events
Register and attend the conferences
Engage in discussions and connect with professionals
Follow up with new contacts and explore potential collaborations

Connect with data analytics professionals

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Enhance your learning journey by connecting with experienced data analytics professionals who can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights.

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Identify potential mentors in the field
Reach out and introduce yourself
Schedule regular meetings or communication
Seek advice and guidance on your career and professional development

Read 'Data Analytics for Dummies'

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Gain a foundational understanding of data analytics concepts and techniques by reading 'Data Analytics for Dummies', building a strong base for your learning journey.

View Big Data, Big Analytics: Emerging Business... on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes
Highlight and identify key concepts and definitions
Complete the practice exercises and quizzes

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Complete SQL tutorials

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Practice writing and executing SQL queries to extract and manipulate data, reinforcing your understanding of data storage and retrieval concepts.

Browse courses on SQL

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Identify a dataset or database to work with
Follow online tutorials or documentation to learn basic SQL commands and syntax
Write queries to select, filter, and manipulate data
Troubleshoot any errors or issues encountered

SQL practice exercises

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Engage in repetitive SQL exercises to solidify your grasp of query writing, data retrieval techniques, and problem-solving skills.

Browse courses on SQL

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Find online platforms or resources that offer SQL practice exercises
Solve a variety of SQL queries, ranging from simple to complex
Review solutions and identify areas for improvement
Repeat the process to enhance your proficiency

Data analysis project

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Embark on a data analysis project to apply your understanding of data principles and techniques, developing practical skills in data exploration, analysis, and visualization.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

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Identify a real-world problem or dataset to analyze
Collect and prepare the necessary data
Perform data analysis using appropriate tools and techniques
Visualize and interpret the results
Communicate your findings and insights

Data visualization dashboard

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Create a data visualization dashboard to showcase your ability to transform complex data into engaging and informative visuals, enhancing your communication and presentation skills.

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Identify the key metrics and insights to visualize
Select appropriate visualization techniques and tools
Design and develop an interactive dashboard
Test and refine the dashboard for usability and effectiveness

Write a blog post on data analytics trends

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Stay updated with the latest advancements in data analytics by researching and writing a blog post, expanding your knowledge and sharing valuable insights with the community.

Browse courses on Data Science

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Identify relevant and current trends in data analytics
Research and gather information from reliable sources
Organize and structure your content effectively
Write a well-written and informative blog post
Promote and share your blog post to reach a wider audience

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Data Analytics for Business will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

This course will provide you with a solid overview of the field of data analytics. You will learn about the different types of data, how to collect and store data, and how to use data to make informed decisions. This course can help you to develop the critical thinking skills, analytical skills, and business acumen needed by the successful data analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Data Manager

This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a data manager. You will learn about the different types of data, how to collect and store data, and how data is valuable in leading to informed decisions. This course will give you a comprehensive overview of the data management lifecycle, and it will equip you to handle the challenges of data management so that you may be successful in your career as a data manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Manager

Data Scientist

This course will introduce you to the field of data science. You will learn about the different types of data, how to collect and store data, and how to use data to solve business problems. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of data science and boost your competency in analytical and technical skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Data Architect

This course will teach you the fundamentals of data architecture. You will learn about the different types of data, how to collect and store data, and how to design and implement data architectures. This course will take you through the lifecycle of data, and its role in businesses, which will help you on your way to becoming a data architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect

Business Analyst

The skills you are learning through this course will help you to develop a solid foundation in business analytics, a valuable skill for any business analyst. Gaining a knowledge of the analytical lifecycle, data sources, and data extraction using SQL will help you to effectively perform your duties as a business analyst, which include gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data to help businesses make informed decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Information Architect

This course will give you a comprehensive overview of the field of information architecture. You will learn about the different types of information, how to organize and structure information, and how to design and implement information architectures. This knowledge will be a valuable stepping stone on your path to becoming a successful information architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Architect

Database Administrator

This course will help you to build a solid foundation in data management, and you will learn about the different types of databases, how to design and implement databases, and how to manage and maintain databases. This course will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills you need to be successful as a database administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Analytics Manager

This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become an analytics manager. You will learn about the different types of analytics, how to collect and analyze data, and how to use analytics to improve business performance. This course will give you a strong foundation in the fundamentals of analytics management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Analytics Manager

Data Privacy Manager

This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a data privacy manager. You will learn about the different privacy laws and regulations, how to develop and implement a data privacy program, and how to manage and enforce data privacy policies. This course will help you to be successful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Privacy Manager

Data Governance Manager

This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a data governance manager. You will learn about the different principles of data governance, how to develop and implement a data governance program, and how to manage and enforce data governance policies. This course will help you to develop the expertise you need to be successful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Governance Manager

Chief Data Officer

This course will introduce you to the role of the chief data officer (CDO) and provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this role. You will learn about the different responsibilities of a CDO, how to develop and implement a data strategy, and how to manage and govern data.

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Data Warehousing Manager

This course will introduce you to the world of data warehousing. You will learn about the different types of data warehouses, how to design and implement a data warehouse, and how to manage and maintain a data warehouse. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to be a successful data warehousing manager.

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Big Data Engineer

This course will introduce you to the field of big data engineering. You will learn about the different types of big data technologies, how to design and implement big data solutions, and how to manage and maintain big data systems. This course will give you a solid foundation in the fundamentals of big data engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Big Data Engineer

Data Quality Manager

This course will provide you with a thorough understanding of data quality management principles and practices. You will learn how to define data quality metrics, develop and implement data quality processes, and monitor and improve data quality. This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in the role of a data quality manager.

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Data Integration Specialist

This course will introduce you to the field of data integration. You will learn about the different types of data integration technologies, how to design and implement data integration solutions, and how to manage and maintain data integration systems. This course will provide you with a base understanding of the fundamentals of data integration and will prepare you for this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Integration Specialist