Put simply, data analysis is the detailed examination of information about a specific topic by an expert. There are several stages involved in data analysis, including data cleansing – ensuring the data is accurate by identifying and correcting or removing inaccurate or corrupt information.
Data analyst skills.
The person in the data analyst job can then transform and model the data, so that useful information is highlighted and understood, and can be used as a sound basis for decision-making.
Public sector.
Government agencies, universities and research councils employ data analysts who are often required to collect and analyse numerical information and to report on the results. Posts in government may include detailed analyses of economic trends, crime statistics, the labour market, population trends or transport.
Problem-solving skills and the ability to achieve a high level of accuracy are important for competent data analysis and when searching for opportunities both entry and higher level applicants find they are well served by IT recruitment agencies, as their skills and aptitudes are closely monitored in order to determine their suitability for a position.
Retail.
Data analyst jobs in the retail sector are found at a number of levels and in a variety of different areas. They include, for example, those in market research – a key way in which retailers gather information about consumer opinion and buying habits. Handling this kind of information often includes qualitative as well as quantitative analysis techniques and candidates should be able to provide an analysis of textual data (what a customer says about issues such as service) as well as a statistical breakdown of that customer’s buying habits. When searching the jobs database on Randstad technologies, look for posts described as statistician or insight analyst as well as data analyst jobs.
Finance and business.
Data analysis underpins many of the most important functions in banks and other financial institutions. An understanding of economics and an interest in financial markets is a bonus for data analysts in this sector alongside communications, IT and maths skills.
In financial and business environments jobs may require the examination of existing business models or flows of data as these can assist in the design of improvements to IT systems. Jobs advertised via Randstad Technologies often ask for candidates who are enthusiastic, highly motivated and positive people.
Police and security.
Although primarily numerical, data can also be text-based and data analysts working in criminal intelligence analyse records and scan other crime information to determine and assess criminal activity. This work aids understanding of how criminal networks operate and can help members of the police force to tackle trends in specific geographic areas or in particular types of criminal activity.
Every sector offers different opportunities and a different range of data analysis jobs. For candidates unsure where to start, consult with Randstad Technologies to find the ideal match.
