Updated on April 22, 2022 - Industry advice updated for relevance and new insights from a professional included
Data Analysts: What Do They Do, and Why Are They In Demand?
Published on March 30, 2021
In this post
Data analysts make it make sense. Make what make sense, you might ask? Well… everything.
From numbers, to words, to images, almost anything can be considered data. Data analytics is a type of data science that aims to find the patterns, correlations or relationships in the data and analyse their meaning. They then use these insights to answer some big questions and inform some big business decisions.
What is data analysis?
Data-driven analytics is becoming increasingly important across all industries. Why? It allows companies to make more informed decisions. These decisions are based on the insights data analysts deduce from large sets of raw data, that otherwise would be pretty useless to the untrained eye.
“Put as simply as possible,” says data analyst Jesse Peterson, “The role of a data analyst is to take abstract information and transform it into usable information.”
A data analyst’s work can:
- Help create targeted content to the right customer group
- Optimise productivity and opportunities for improvement
- Ensure more objective decision-making takes place
- Help people innovate and explore with purpose
Data analyst responsibilities
“Data analysts take endless rows of seemingly random dates, numbers and dot points, then convert them into easily readable forms, such as graphs, charts, tables and dashboards,” Jesse explains.
To break it down a little more, the data analysis process generally follows these five steps:
1
Identify
2
Collect
3
Clean
4
Analyse
5
Report
1. Identify the data, define the question
What question are you trying to answer? What do you need to ask to make sure the right data is chosen to answers questions like:
- What are we doing well?
- What are we doing poorly?
- What are our opportunities for improvement?
- What trends are we seeing?
- Why has x changed?
2. Collect the data
Data collection can occur via a wide range of places, however, some common sources include:
- Surveys
- Website visitor tracking
- Buying datasets from collection specialists
3. Clean the data
Although often very accurate, computers aren’t perfect, so, cleaning data is essential. This means sifting through large datasets and making sure only relevant information remains.
4. Analyse the data
There are four main types of data analyses methods that you’ll use throughout your data analyst career:
- Descriptive
Describes the features of the data set so you can better understand how you should move forward. - Diagnostic
Helps you find out why something has happened —- what are the correlations between values in the data - Predictive
Uses past data trends to understand current or possible future trends in the data. Predictive analytics uses techniques from data mining, such as using data models, algorithms and machine learning techniques to make predictions about possible future events. - Prescriptive
Informs future decisions and course of action based on the trends found in the data. Often, this is reached with the help of machine learning techniques.
5. Report the results to stakeholders
Now that you have found the answers or at least, possible answers to the questions you defined in step one, you need to report it. This means putting your analyses into an understandable format so you can inform all and any stakeholders of your findings and advise them on how to move forward.
A day in the life of a data analyst
Jesse executes on these responsibilities in his day-to-day role in a marketing company:

A normal day in my life as a data analyst is going to be broken up into three key activities: briefing, research and presentation.
The first of these activities, briefing, is the simplest. I meet with a co-worker or stakeholder who has a question that they would like answered. Perhaps they would like to know how effectively our business appeals to different demographics, or perhaps they would like to know-how innovations in our business are being received by our clients.
Regardless of what it is, they have an abstract question, and my role is to take this abstract question, break it down and devise a way to answer it empirically using data.
This brings me to the second activity, research, which takes by far the largest amount of my time. I obtain all relevant data to the question at hand, then use my skills, knowledge and technology to break down this data and find out what it is really telling us.
Finally, the most often overlooked — yet extremely important — step: presentation. Improperly presented data can be misleading and deceiving. So, I work to present the data and my findings in a way that is as clear, concise and accurate as possible.
When this is ready, I once again meet with the one who initially came to me with the question. I explain my findings and do everything in my power to answer their initial question.
What do data analysts do in different industries?
Data analysts can work in a range of environments. Like any role, a data analyst’s job description will change depending on which industry you work in and whether you’re an entry-level or senior data analyst. Each industry will have its nuances, its challenges, and specific flow of operations.
Though used to mainly work in investment banks and private equity firms. But now that data is a valuable resource in almost all Australian industries, you can find them working in:
- Marketing
- Healthcare
- Retail
- Insurance
- Technology
Some unique and exciting data analyst career opportunities include:
Business intelligence analyst
A business analyst mostly works with data metrics related to business activities, such as:
- Sales
- Revenue
- Customer engagement
- Market information
You’ll focus on improving a business’ market activities and boosting their revenue, while growing authentic customer engagement. You’ll report your findings to key stakeholders so they can make informed business decisions.
Operations analyst
You’ll most likely be a part of a company’s operations team, and work closely with the operations manager. You’ll focus on finding data-informed strategies to help improve workflow and efficiency of internal business operations.
Transport Logistics Specialist Data Analyst
Here, you’ll use your data analyst skills to optimise how a business can store, transport and deliver large scale quantities of goods.
You’ll be relied upon to find the best paths and methods for products to be delivered, avoiding and problem-solving logistical nightmares like bottlenecking.
Medical and healthcare analyst
In this industry, you’ll work with medical data management systems to compile health care data. This data can be from a medical clinic’s expenses through to patient diagnoses. You’ll be in charge of controlling expenditure, finding ways to assist in providing optimal health care and improving patient experiences.
Data analyst skills
Being a good data analyst means you’ll need a strong blend of both hard and soft skills.
Your technical knowledge is essential to complete the analysis aspect of the role. Some critical skills you’ll need to have under your belt include:
- Using database tools such SQL and Microsoft Excel
- Understanding programming languages like Python or R
- Data visualisation through programs like Tableau or Jupyter Notebook
- A firm grasp of higher level maths and statistics
This is because you’ll be expected to present and justify your work to key stakeholders in an understandable and effective way. You’ll also want to develop strong:
- Critical thinking techniques
- Problem-solving skills
- Analytical skills
Who suits this kind of role?
“A person who enjoys a bit of number crunching, who prefers to work independently, and comes at problems with a critical eye” Jesse says.
However, he also warns that, “Trying to understand all types of information that are being collected can be overwhelming, let alone finding and extracting the very specific data you need.”
A hot tip from Jesse for all budding data analysts (no matter the industry) is to befriend your company’s data engineer ASAP — “They will be your greatest resource in understanding what data is being stored.”
Best Online Data Analytics Courses: Which One Is Right for You?
Interested in learning more about how you can take the next step to your new career as a data analyst? Discover which online data analytics course can help you start your career.
Training.com.au has a wide range of online courses from Australia’s top education providers that can get you ready to leap into this thriving industry.
Loading...
Courses found:
Top Result
Certificate III and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Occupational Therapy) HLT33015, HLT43015
Make your start in allied health assistance with a nationally recognised qualification. The HLT33015 Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and HLT43015 Allied Health Assistance (Occupational Therapy) is a bundle online course option for those int...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied health assistant +1

New
Certificate III and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics) HLT33015, HLT43015
Prepare for a prosperous future in allied health with a nationally recognised qualification. The Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics) will provide you with hands-on experie...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied health assistant +1

New
Certificate III and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance HLT33015, HLT43015
Do what you love with a nationally recognised qualification. The Certificate III and IV in Allied Health Assistance is the perfect dual qualification for those interested in working in healthcare. You will gain practical experience and a diverse skill...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied health assistant

New
Certificate III and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy) HLT33015, HLT43015
Pursue a meaningful career in allied health with a nationally recognised qualification. A Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy) will give you the practical skills and knowledge needed...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied health assistant +1

New
Double Qualification Certificate III and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30121, CHC50121
Population growth is driving increasing demand for childcare in Australia. Forecasts estimate there will be 2.2 million children aged under 5 years in Australia by 2031, and 2.6 million by 2051. Over recent years, growth in the childcare workforce has...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator

New
Certificate IV in Ageing Support CHC43015
The aged and home care sector is one of Australia’s largest and fastest growing service industries. In 2015, 130,200 persons were employed as Nursing Support and Personal Care workers and it estimated that up to another 250,200 more workers will be req...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Personal Care Worker +8

New
Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration) BSB30120
Launch your business admin career with a nationally recognised qualification The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration) equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a variety of healthcare workplaces such as hospitals,...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Medical receptionist +4

New
Certificate IV in Hospitality SIT40416
Oversee the operations of a bar, cafe, restaurant, hotel reception or concierge service. This qualification reflects the role of skilled operators who use a broad range of hospitality service, sales or operational skills combined with supervisory skill...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Front Office Supervisor or T... +5

New
Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics Specialisation) HLT43015
The Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetics Specialisation) is a nationally recognised training qualification which teaches you how to implement health care program activities, confirm a patient’s physical health status, int...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied Heath Assistant +1

New
Diploma of Nutrition 10967NAT
The 10967NAT Diploma of Nutrition prepares you with the skills and experience to take on a variety of nutrition advisory roles across multiple environments and settings.
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Nutrition advisor +1

New
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30121
Build a fulfilling career working with children. If you delight in seeing young children explore their world, learn and grow, and would like to make childhood education your career, this is an ideal place to start. With the new Certificate III in Early...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Long Day Care Educator +3

New
Diploma of Counselling CHC51015
Counsellors are well sought after and the need for a good counsellor is increasing day by day. With the increase in people needing counselling for various issues this is a sought after career and good counsellors are highly successful. If you have a pa...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Registered counsellor +4

New
Certificate III in Business (Business Administration) BSB30120
Launch your business admin career with a nationally recognised qualification The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Business Administration) equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in any administrative role. This business admin course c...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Administrative assistant +6

New
Certificate III in Education Support and Certificate IV in Education Support CHC30213, CHC40213
The Certificate III in Education Support and Certificate IV in Education Support dual qualification, will equip you with the skills required to support students with different developmental issues, and the knowledge needed to guide responsible behaviou...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Teacher Aide/Assistant +4

New
Diploma of Community Services CHC52015
In 2015, Health Care and Social Assistance was the largest employing sector in Australia, representing 1,523,000 workers and accounting for 27% of total new jobs over a five year period. Employment growth is projected to remain strong, with the sector...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Case Coordinator +9

New
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) (Self Paced) CPC40110
Want to become a Registered Building Legend but can’t make it to one of our physical classes and want to be in charge of your study timetable? Builder’s Academy Australia, through our sister company, CWBTS is able to offer you a Video Led, Self-Paced –...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Construction Supervisor +2

New
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) (Self Paced) CPC50210
Want to become a Registered Building Legend but can’t make it to one of our physical classes and want to be in charge of your study timetable? CWBTS’s Video Led, Self-Paced – Online model may be perfect for you. In this program, you’ll exam...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Carpenters

New
Certificate III in Hospitality SIT30616
Embark on a rewarding career in the hospitality sector. The Certificate III in Hospitality will equip you with a number of practical skills, which will enable you to work effectively in a variety of roles and venues. This qualification reflects the rol...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Reception Front Desk Staff +5

New
Certificate III in Business Administration BSB30415
Advance your existing office knowledge and gain the confidence to take your business career further. Make your start in business providing administration support with a formal business administration qualification – the Certificate III in Busines...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Office Administrator +4

New
Certificate IV in Health Administration HLT47315
The nationally accredited Certificate IV in Health Administration (HLT47315) teaches you how to understand and apply medical terminology, manage patient record-keeping systems and contribute to the organisational effectiveness of the health industry. I...
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Clinical services team leade... +4

New
Online courses also available
Want to read more?
The Complete Guide to Changing Careers
It happens all the time and you’re no different, so there’s no need to feel as though you’re on your...
How to Become a Web Developer
Looking at a career in web development? We dive into salary expectations, desired qualifications and...
Working With Disabled Children: Everything You Need to Know
Working with children with disability or special needs could be the path for you! Get all the info y...