Business intelligence strategy
Top Stories
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Feature
21 Nov 2022
What makes up an analytics pipeline?
Analytics pipelines were traditionally hidden away, but they're changing as more organizations focus on agility for their data. Learn what makes up a successful analytics pipeline. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Feb 2022
Good data-driven decision-making avoids common pitfalls
Avoiding cognitive biases that can lead to the use of incomplete or inaccurate data is crucial to the successful use of analytics. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Aug 2019
Enterprise data marketplace aims to ease self-service chaos
Self-service data preparation can duplicate work and slow down analytics. One possible fix: an internal marketplace where users can 'shop' for data assets. Continue Reading
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News
08 Aug 2019
Pyramid sees opportunity in staying an independent BI company
As competitors merge forces, Pyramid Analytics not only chooses to stay independent but also sees an opportunity to grow into the space left behind by the wave of consolidation. Continue Reading
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Infographic
02 Aug 2019
Merger and acquisition activity is altering the BI landscape
From Qlik's acquisition of Podium Data in July 2018 through Salesforce's purchase of Tableau Software in June 2019, the last year in BI has been characterized by a wave of consolidation. Continue Reading
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News
02 Aug 2019
Data ethics issues create minefields for analytics teams
Organizations have to map out ethical boundaries for data mining and analytics applications, according to participants in a roundtable discussion on data and ethics. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jul 2019
Analyst forecasts the next big things in BI
In a Q&A, Wayne Eckerson looks at the state of the business intelligence industry, and self-service analytics, and discusses what new innovations excite him about the future. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jul 2019
Enterprises that use data will thrive; those that don't, won't
A data divide is growing between enterprises that embrace business intelligence and those that don't. It's the data elite that will survive, analyst Wayne Eckerson says in a Q&A. Continue Reading
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News
16 Jul 2019
ThoughtSpot strategic partnerships help add capabilities
Through its partnership strategy, ThoughtSpot is adding to its capabilities as a BI software vendor the same way others are improving theirs by mergers and acquisitions. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jul 2019
Howard Dresner talks business intelligence trends
In this Q&A, analyst Howard Dresner talks about trends in the business intelligence software market, industry consolidation and what excites him about analytics. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jul 2019
The direction of business intelligence is changing to forward
Predictive analytics will be one of the key trends shaping the next generation of business intelligence platforms, as will the ability to share data. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jul 2019
Tableau vs. Power BI vs. Qlik: Comparing BI software choices
Tableau, Power BI and Qlik Sense offer similar self-service BI functionality, consultant Rick Sherman says. But he points to some of their strengths and weaknesses. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 May 2019
McDonald's orders up customer service analytics, shakes up fast food
The fast-food giant is acquiring Dynamic Yield, a big data analytics platform, in pursuit of a more personalized customer experience on drive-thru and digital orders. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Apr 2019
Data-rich organizations turn focus to ethical data mining
As data analytics has increasingly become a core component of organizations' strategies, concerns have arisen around how data is mined. Experts offer tips. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2019
Analytics an uneasy balance between data collection and privacy
In the age of GDPR and privacy regulations, attention must be paid to user privacy. Data management tools that employ AI as part of analytics can help achieve that. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Feb 2019
3 best practices for harnessing social media analytics data
How can organizations leverage social media analytics data? Analytics professionals offer tips, starting with picking metrics that track to your goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Feb 2019
Information Builders CEO on cloud-first approach, machine learning
Information Builders' new CEO, Frank Vella, said the company's focus on cloud and machine learning will help it solidify a firm position in today's BI and analytics market. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Feb 2019
New Information Builders CEO targets modern CX, development
In Q&A, new CEO Frank Vella discusses how Information Builders is modernizing its WebFocus platform to make it easier to use and changing the vendor's internal culture. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2019
Demand for data scientists is booming and will only increase
Fueled by big data and AI, demand for data science skills is growing exponentially, according to job sites. The supply of skilled applicants, however, is growing at a slower pace. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2019
5 tips for migrating to BI in the cloud without overpaying
Moving BI and analytics to the cloud requires a strategy to avoid excessive costs. Get tips from experts and IT pros on what to watch out for and what to address. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Jan 2019
IT managers look to deploy BI, analytics in the cloud
More organizations plan to use cloud-based BI and analytics and focus on data governance and predictive analytics, TechTarget's 2019 IT Priorities Survey found. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jan 2019
Analytics trends we'll see in 2019
BI and analytics software looks to evolve further in 2019, as tools will keep getting easier to use and more AI-powered technologies will augment user experiences. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Dec 2018
Bolster citizen data scientists with support, training
As more citizen data scientists take on work traditionally tasked to business analysts, organizations must consider how to support them. Start with a centralized data team. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Dec 2018
5 tips for enabling citizen data scientists
Self-service analytics tools are enabling citizen data scientists to dig deeper into BI than ever before. Experts offer insights into how to empower data democratization. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2018
Data silos can live or die by a self-service BI strategy
Self-service BI is a driving force behind the reshaping or possible demise of data silos. But sound data governance and corporate attitude adjustments are needed first. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Nov 2018
Rules change for self-service BI subscription pricing models
As self-service BI tools become commonplace, look for subscription pricing models to change according to the cloud, group data usage pricing and how data is shared. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Nov 2018
What data management challenges do analytics programs face?
Expert Anne Marie Smith shares five reasons why organizations' analytics programs might fail and how a data management framework and other programs can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2018
10 dos and don'ts for deploying self-service BI tools
Self-service BI doesn't just happen. Organizations must ensure data quality and watch how analysts work. Experts offer 10 tips for enabling a self-service culture. Continue Reading
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Infographic
01 Oct 2018
Automated predictive analytics tools spawn wannabe scientists
They don't own the same depth of data science skills, but automated predictive analytics tools hatch a new breed of 'data scientists' who can produce actionable predictive models. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Oct 2018
Augmented analytics, automated tools facilitate data analysis
From Tableau to Google, vendors increasingly incorporate augmented and automated analytics tools into their software to speed analytics work and open it up to more users. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Aug 2018
Options arise for expanding data scientists' skills
Data science programs aren't just for universities anymore. Now, data scientists can turn to massive open online courses, online texts and other resources to boost their skill sets. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jul 2018
Streamlining predictive analytics in retail marketing
Online flash-sale retailer Zulily uses BigQuery and Tableau to help power its predictive analytics, which, in turn, boosts its marketing efforts and ability to manage incoming data. Continue Reading
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News
02 Jul 2018
Airbnb, Univision highlight best practices in BI
At the Real Business Intelligence conference, Airbnb and Univision execs presented some of the BI strategies their organizations use to help drive growth and cut costs. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jun 2018
The future of BI is bright, as experts note evolving trends
Fast-evolving tech trends like machine learning and cloud storage management will have big roles in BI in the coming years, especially with the dominance of cloud computing, experts say. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jun 2018
Data-driven strategy grooms dog care franchise for growth
Camp Bow Wow is growing its day care and boarding business for dogs with the help of a data-driven approach that's powered by a hybrid POS and Tableau system. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2018
AP uses data.world platform to spread data journalism
Data journalism reporters need tools that deliver quick context for stories on deadline. A data collaboration platform from data.world helps the Associated Press meet such needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2018
Humans and AI tools go hand in hand in analytics applications
Companies are keeping data analysts and other workers in the loop with AI applications to check the results generated by automated algorithms for accuracy, relevance and missing info. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Mar 2018
Diversified data sets for analytics deliver top results
Analytics teams should focus on data diversity to ensure that their projects deliver the most meaningful insights -- but they must be wary of some stumbling blocks. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Mar 2018
How to boost the value of BI in today's analytics landscape
Basic BI reporting still gives businesses valuable information. But its value can be increased by incorporating it into a broader analytics and data visualization platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2018
Beat the challenges of predictive analytics in big data systems
Big data and predictive analytics may seem synonymous, but understanding the constraints of each discipline is the key to extracting business value from projects that combine them. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jan 2018
Infographic: The evolution of the chief data officer role
The CDO role, which has never been rigidly defined, is undergoing a face-lift as emerging technologies present new opportunities to enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jan 2018
How to use machine learning to build a predictive algorithm
Machine learning is an invaluable tool for solving business problems, but don't jump into it for predictive analytics without understanding these important factors. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Aug 2017
Ten steps to start using predictive analytics algorithms effectively
A successful predictive analytics program involves more than deploying software and running algorithms to analyze data. This set of steps can help you put a solid analytics foundation in place. Continue Reading
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News
14 Mar 2017
Derbyshire NHS Trust takes simple BI approach to secure patient safety
Derbyshire NHS Foundation Trust opts for a simple, clinician and business-led approach to business intelligence to secure patient safety, using MicroStrategy Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2016
Examining the pros and cons of Microsoft Power BI tools
Power BI is a suite of business intelligence tools that targets user-friendly analysis and reporting. But what are users getting for their money, and how is it potentially useful? Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Dec 2015
IoT data analytics spurred on by big data's expansion
Data from the Internet of Things creates opportunities to analyze equipment performance and track the activities of drivers and users of wearable devices. But IoT data analytics requires significant IT provisions. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Feb 2015
Five steps to implementing an MDM program
Instituting a master data management program involves discovery, analysis, construction, implementation and sustainment processes, according to MDM expert Anne Marie Smith. Continue Reading
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News
02 Feb 2015
Self-service BI, data integration top information management issues
Self-service business intelligence and data integration top information management challenges for IT and finance professionals Continue Reading
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News
10 Sep 2014
Accenture: 48% of UK survey respondents fail to find big data talent
An Accenture survey has found that nearly half of UK respondents are struggling to find enough skilled data management professional Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jul 2014
Location-based analytics helps Wendy's find its way to new sites
Most people remember geography class as a liberal arts concentration. But John Crouse of Wendy's is showing that geographic knowledge can make for a valuable pairing with statistical analysis as part of location intelligence efforts. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Jun 2014
Design a business intelligence system properly -- for business users
Rick Sherman explains how to avoid common mistakes when planning and designing BI systems, saying that the varying needs of different business users must be front and center. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2013
Defining and using KPIs in a successful business intelligence system
In this book excerpt, author David Loshin discusses how to select key performance indicators and turn data into actionable knowledge for BI success. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2013
Self-service BI: A maturity test for BI programs
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson shares the key points from a webcast panel discussion he led on self-service business intelligence. His conclusion: It's not as easy as you might think. Continue Reading
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News
09 Sep 2013
A critical BI challenge: Reconciling opposites
Business intelligence managers are often faced with seemingly contradictory demands, writes TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson -- and that calls for an open mind, not a rigid approach. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Jun 2013
BI program rescue strategy: Breaking the rules
If business users are losing faith in a business intelligence team, it might be time to throw out the BI rule book and do what needs to be done, writes TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jun 2013
Is it time to outsource your BI program?
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson writes that if your business intelligence efforts aren't producing the desired business results, one option to consider might be -- yes -- outsourcing the BI initiative. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 May 2013
Six steps to creating a BI competency center
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson lays out a roadmap for setting up a successful business intelligence competency center, and breaking down BI silos, in a decentralized company. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 May 2013
Embedded BI: Largely invisible, but not for long
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson tracks the ongoing evolution of embedded business intelligence tools and sees big things ahead for the technology. Make that very big things. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2013
Case study: Telefonica Ireland uses business intelligence to reduce churn
O2 Ireland, part of Telefonica, has been using Teradata’s data warehousing and Cognos BI to stop customers leaving and entice them with location-based offers Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Apr 2013
Change management tips for BI program managers
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson writes that business intelligence managers can learn some valuable lessons from the book "Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard." Continue Reading
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News
01 Feb 2013
Don’t make big data stand alone, warns Gartner
Gartner cautions organisations against treating big data as unique and criticises business intelligence suppliers for failing to exploit mobility Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jan 2013
Online gambling sector bets on business intelligence
Online gambling and gaming industries crave structured business data. Volumes can be huge and they need to react to customer behaviour Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2013
King.com gaming site unlocks big data with Hadoop
Online gaming company King.com replaced its MySQL database with Cloudera’s Hadoop distribution to cope with big data Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Nov 2012
BI catch phrases you'll hear in 2013
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson lists six slogans that he says BI, analytics and data warehousing professionals are likely to encounter in 2013. Continue Reading
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Quiz
14 Nov 2012
Quiz: Test your knowledge of mobile business intelligence trends
How much do you know about mobile business intelligence tools and best practices for managing mobile BI initiatives? Take our brief quiz to find out. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Nov 2012
How to gather BI dashboard user requirements to nail business strategy alignment
Many analytical systems -- data warehouses, business intelligence systems -- fail because user requirements are not collected properly Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2012
What 'big data' means for health care BI managers
Consultant Laura Madsen says that "big data" is here to stay and that health care organizations -- which often lag behind other businesses on BI maturity -- should start getting ready for it. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jul 2012
Location intelligence involves more than maps
BI tools support the use of maps for visualizing data, but location intelligence systems go much further in enabling users to manipulate and analyze spatial data, says TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson. Continue Reading
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News
25 May 2012
Organisational design for analytics function needs governance
Scant are the absolute rules for the organizational design of the analytics function. It can be outsourced or in-house; sit within a business unit or run from the centre. But it needs governance. Continue Reading
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News
21 May 2012
Triumvirate of tools key to effective BI processes
TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson says business intelligence systems should include reporting, dashboard and visual discovery software -- be it from one vendor or multiple suppliers. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Apr 2012
Making money from data: Financial business intelligence at work
Finance professionals are heavy users of BI and predictive analytics software. Find out how a variety of European finance functionaries are analysing trends, cutting costs and finding new business. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2012
Business analytics skills shortage provokes companies to cast net wide
Organisations face lack of business analytics skills. Smart companies cast the net wide for the broadest pools of talent, help analysts learn from each other and work to ensure they realize potential. Continue Reading
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News
03 Apr 2012
Collaborative BI: Optimizing decision-making processes
In a new research report, TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson assesses the role of collaboration in business intelligence and analyzes survey results on the adoption of collaborative tools for BI uses. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2012
The two sides of Facebook business applications
Facebook has unlimited potential for advertising and targeted marketing, says TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson. But, he adds, it must protect personal data from over-exuberant marketers. Continue Reading
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Report
27 Feb 2012
In-memory analysis: Insights at the speed of thought
In a research report, TechTarget's Wayne Eckerson discusses in-memory analytics, self-service business intelligence and other technologies aimed at making "faster, better, cheaper" BI a reality. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2012
Predictive analytics used to cut costs in oil sector
Predictive analytics is being used in the oil and gas industry to better manage asset maintenance on capital equipment. And a more enterprisewide adoption of the technology is predicted. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2012
'Big data' to inspire streamlined analytics programs in '12, IIA predicts
Faculty members from the International Institute for Analytics, a research firm that focuses on how organizations use analytics, weigh in on their predictions for 2012. Continue Reading
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News
04 Jan 2012
Biggest business intelligence software stories of 2011
From the explosion of "big data" analytics to data quality issues plaguing business intelligence (BI) programs to data mining privacy concerns, there was no shortage of must-read BI stories in 2011. Continue Reading
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Answer
31 Jan 2011
How to leverage agile BI to help your BI architecture
Learn how to leverage agile BI to help with your business intelligence architecture. Find out why you should split your BI architecture into two categories -- data integration and BI applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Nov 2010
Is your company primed for social media analytics?
Are some companies primed to get more use out of social media analytics than others are? Find out, plus learn how a social media analytics strategy compares to BI strategies. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
07 Oct 2010
Examples of decision support systems (DSS) aiding business decision-making
Learn how decision support systems can help the business decision-making process. Find out why decision support is needed and what IT skills business managers need for DSS. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Sep 2010
Seven aspects of a successful business intelligence (BI) architecture
Knowing what makes for a successful business intelligence (BI) architecture can help you plan and expand your current BI system. Learn what your BI architecture should include. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2010
Gartner: The six elements of cloud analytics and SaaS BI
The term ‘cloud analytics’ means different things to different people. To gain any advantage from it, organizations must first agree on a definition, according to Gartner. Continue Reading
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News
02 Mar 2007
Business intelligence ROI: Five keys to justifying BI investments
Analysts from Gartner and Bloor, and an experienced end user, recommend best practices for calculating the hard ROI metrics and soft benefits of BI investments. Continue Reading