We write for Analytics Insight about what's missing from today's data enablement tools

As the data pool grows, we need better ways to gain understanding from it. Our Director Geoff Lowe writes about “What’s missing from today’s data enablement tools” for Analytics Insight, a publication that focuses on disruptive technologies in the AI, big data and analytics space. He writes that today’s complex data streams need tools to process, analyze and report on them for better business decision-making.  

First, he says we need solutions that can integrate all the disparate data into a holistic view for critical business metrics. Admitting that there is no “one size fits all” tool out there, he points out that typical business intelligence (BI) tools don’t have the specialized capabilities that some data analysis requires. “Survey data, for example, requires specialized tools that generalist data analysis platforms do not have, such as weighting and multi-level response analysis.”

Second, all of this data coming in needs to be accessible and easy to use for ALL end users and stakeholders across an organization. While improvements have been made to current tools, many are barely keeping their heads above water as the data floods in. Geoff reiterates that the data’s value really relies on whether or not it has been “properly curated for accuracy, reliability and usability” and he writes about the most important skills to master in order to achieve this. The right technology can facilitate the proper organization and analysis of data, so that it is more accessible to those who need it most. 

Looking ahead, Geoff says we have to remember what we’re trying to do with data in the first place, which is to “grow understanding of the world through the use of data.” This goes beyond a focus on the simple “mechanics” of data enablement and instead encompasses making data usable and accessible to drive positive business actions. 

He concludes by writing that the right kind of technology can free up humans to do the things machines cannot. “This will give curious minds more space to dig into the data, uncover insights and understand a holistic view. We will see more of this deft balance of human talent and efficient technology come into play in the future.” 

Read the whole article here: https://www.analyticsinsight.net/whats-missing-from-todays-data-enablement-tools/