How to Become a Business Intelligence Analyst
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A business intelligence analyst can help organizations make better decisions based on the data they collect. These data may include public information, industry reports, and field reports. They may also be responsible for gathering and interpreting information related to customers, competition, and technology trends. They may also be required to create operational procedures to manage and maintain the data. The end product of this work is business intelligence, which can help businesses identify trends and improve their performance.
To become a business intelligence analyst, you will need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as Computer Science, Business Information Systems, or Data Science. After you earn your degree, you can pursue additional training and certifications related to your field. An internship in a financial institution can also be a good way to gain more experience in the field.
A business intelligence analyst will work between IT and business operations to provide real-time analysis and decision making. Their work location may vary depending on the size and complexity of the organization. They may also be embedded in specific departments or lines of business. BI analyst jobs require a combination of technical skills, general business knowledge, and specific industry knowledge.
Professional certification is an excellent way to hone your skills as a BI analyst. There are several available, including the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification, which validates SQL skills. Additionally, you can earn an MCSE in data warehousing and data modeling. You can also get a specialized certification in specific coding languages such as R, SAS, or SQL.
The salary of a business intelligence analyst varies widely depending on the location. Some cities have higher salaries than others. San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC have higher salaries than the national average. Other cities with higher salaries are Houston, TX, Seattle, and Boston, MA, and Austin, TX. You can also pursue an MBA or a master’s degree to increase your earning potential.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science or an area related to analytics is required for many BI analyst jobs. However, you may be able to qualify with a bachelor’s degree in a non-related field if you already have a job in the field. Alternatively, you can pursue a master’s degree in data science or business administration.
A BI analyst must be highly knowledgeable in data tools and processes, such as Power BI and Tableau, as well as machine learning solutions. They should also be proficient in creating systems and processes to monitor various aspects of a business. This type of experience is highly valuable and can make you the best candidate for a job.
While a bachelor’s degree is typically required for entry-level business intelligence analyst positions, an MBA can provide a competitive advantage and make you more likely to land a more senior position. Hiring managers look for a combination of technical knowledge and professional experience, and an MBA will help you stand out from the crowd.
