What is a Data Analyst?

A Data Analyst, or statistician, collects, processes and performs statistical analyses of data. They prepare reports, which may be in the form of visualizations such as charts, graphs and dashboards, detailing the significant results they deduced. They also identify new opportunities for process improvement.

What Does a Data Analyst Do?

A Data Analyst is a highly trained professional responsible for collecting and studying data to reveal ways to improve a business, organization or government entity. The data can include almost any topic including employees, customers, marketing, sales, manufacturing or distribution. Another important task of theirs is to evaluate risk; gathering statistical information to determine whether a company is accidentally harming itself. Data Analysts also locate and define new process improvement opportunities that optimize statistical efficiency and data quality.

How Do I Hire a Data Analyst?

In hiring a Data Analyst, you should first assess if the candidate has a degree in Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, Information Management or Statistics. Next, check the candidate’s working experience as a data analyst. And lastly, strong knowledge of and experience with reporting packages (Business Objects etc), databases (SQL etc), programming (XML, Javascript, or ETL frameworks) and proficiency in using statistical packages for analyzing large datasets (Excel, SPSS, SAS etc) is a must.

How Much Does a Data Analyst Cost?

The cost of a Data Analyst depends on educational attainment, experience and type of data analyst. A Senior data analyst with the skills of a data scientist can command a high price while entry-level data analyst with basic technical tools might be looking at a basic rate. To help you find a suitable Data Analyst, seek the help of staffing companies. Through their thorough screening process, you’re assured of an employee who performs at a high standard – for a lower cost.