#RichelleDesireBusinessIntelligence

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Business Intelligence Case Studies

     This month in Business Intelligence Case Studies (ICS), I had the opportunity to explore case studies which were directly related to compiling my capstone project. In the course, Big Data in Practice by Bernard Marr, 45 companies were assessed to show how effectively they used Big Data Analytics to solve some of their most challenging issues. Challenges the companies faced were not only enormous financial liabilities, but could also cost human lives.      Other areas of exploration which I later was tasked with creating, included Gap Analyses, Cost-Benefit Analyses, PESTEL and SWOT Analyses, along with Business Problem / Opportunity Identification, and outlining an Implementation Process for the company in question, as part of its Data Informed Solution. Respectfully, I must state that I found this course one of the most rewarding courses as. It directly relates to my current Business Intelligence career. I also believe that it prepares students for the Business Intelligence Capstone the most and could be considered its pre-requisite. Of course, placing that course right before the capstone course is strategic.      My expectation was to be able to practice the capstone process as much as possible and gain awareness on requirements to build my solution plan. I am pleased that the ICS course has met this goal and more specifically enhanced my palette in the following areas: • Analyze large corporations and their application of big data to solve real-world operational issues • Understand how big data is applied based on solution goal and industry • Learn how to outline the true value of a solution plan in a qualitative and quantitative manner • Understand what solutions are worth pursuing for maximum benefit to the organization and what may not be viewed as crucial to the organization’s bottom-line (this is beyond the assignment and was based on a conversation with my professor) • Explore resources for sound research and be aware of the template for the solution plan • Gain knowledge on how the proposal should flow for optimal comprehension on an executive level but also based on industry standards      On a personal note, I wish I had more time to explore this course. As a matter of fact, I wish I had more time to explore all my courses. I was thrilled to know that this degree can be completed at an accelerated rate, as all my previous degrees were accelerated both online and in the classroom. However, now that I have gone through the Business Intelligence program—and can compare it to my previous Master’s Degree program which was also accelerated—I would have preferred a more traditional timeline and format. There is a lot to consume, though I did not find that part the most challenging. Experiencing challenges, working full-time, helping a friend run their business, and being in grad school all while dealing with normal life changes that many grad students face, seemed almost impossible to juggle at times.      But overall, I tried not to complain too much, as I recognize that the opportunity to go to college, and to even get two Masters Degrees, are indeed a privilege and I dare not take it for granted. Furthermore, as a woman who is of Afro-Caribbean decent, who grew up in a small village on an island, and is often times the minority in every room—whether by race, ethnicity or gender—I am grateful that I have helped open a door, or window for someone else who looks like me in the technology industry.      Finally, I am proud that my fellow classmates and I have made it this far and feel honored to have gained the respect of our knowledgeable professors—all of whom are experts in the technology industry and in business overall. I will actually miss the program and its lessons—but that might be because I am a student of life and never pass up an opportunity for edification.      Today, specifically, I can reflect and know that I grew my intelligence in another area of business—in Business Intelligence. Like what I did there?      I look forward to completing my capstone and graduating. Onward and upward!   References Business Intelligence Master of Science (2017). In Full Sail University. Retrieved May 7, 2019, from https://www.fullsail.edu/degrees/business-intelligence-master

Marr, Bernard (2017). Big Data in Practice How 45 Successful Companies Used Big Data Analytics to Deliver Extraordinary Results (pp. 25-30). West Sussex, UK: John Wiley & Sons. Retrieved May 7, 2019.

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Process Modeling & Analysis Mastery Update

This month in my Process Modeling and Analysis (PMA) class, I gained a more in-depth understanding of sound business analysis and process improvement. 

My expectation was to gain an advanced knowledge of business intelligence systems appropriate for respective companies and industries

I am pleased that the PMA course has met this goal and more specifically enhanced my palette in the following areas:

 Apply proper use of business intelligence systems appropriate for respective companies or industries. 

 Explore DSS and key performance indicators (KPIs) further. 

 Improve current reporting and KPIs for recruiting and employee metrics through appropriate process modeling

My expectations were met and, in some ways, were exceeded while learning about different types of process models such as discrete-event simulation flow charts, Pricing Analysis and Decision Analysis. Interestingly I started a new job where I am responsible for establishing a reporting process that would make reporting client costs easier at a large corporation. In the third week, I saw first-hand how a process fails without a good model and how much more time and effort tasks can take as a result. I was also able to add more BI terms to my Mastery Glossary which will serve me long after graduation. 

Lastly, I look forward to not only use my newfound knowledge throughout the Business Intelligence program and in my professional life, but also to open my eyes to other opportunities where I can use process models to not only establish new processes but to also enhance existing models.

Looking forward to my next course, Business Intelligence Leadership and Communication. Onward and upward!

Reference:

Business Intelligence Master of Science (2017). In Full Sail University. Retrieved  February 27, 2019, from https://www.fullsail.edu/degrees/business-intelligence-master