An introduction to data and data analytics
The data practitionerʼs guide
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Attributes of a data professional
| Data professionals have many attributes that make them effective in working with data,
extracting insights, and deriving value from data-driven approaches.
Analytical thinking
Tend to possess strong analytical skills and are capable of breaking down complex problems into manageable components.
Can identify patterns, trends, and insights within data and use critical thinking to derive meaningful conclusions.
Technical proficiency
Tend to have a solid understanding of data-related technologies, programming languages, and tools. Proficient in data
manipulation, analysis, and visualisation.
Curiosity and continuous learning
Tend to have a natural curiosity and a passion for exploring and understanding data. Eager to learn new techniques, tools,
and methodologies to enhance their data analysis skills. Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements.
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Attributes of a data professional
Attention to detail
Pays attention to detail when working with data. They ensure data accuracy, completeness, and quality. They are meticulous
in data cleaning, pre-processing, and validation to minimise errors and biases that could impact analysis outcomes.
Collaboration and teamwork
Collaborate effectively with colleagues from different backgrounds, including stakeholders. They can work together to
identify project goals, share insights, and contribute to data-driven decision-making.
Communication and storytelling
Skilled communicators who can effectively convey complex data concepts. Can translate data insights into clear, actionable
recommendations and present findings through effective use of visualisations and storytelling.
While the specific combination and emphasis of attributes may vary depending on the role and organisation, these attributes are
commonly sought after in data professionals, such as data analysts, data scientists, and data engineers.
Since these attributes are in high demand, it is valuable for data professionals to develop these attributes.
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Key data skills
Data has become an integral part of Data analysis
daily life and many of these skills are
critical but transferable in many
careers – we are all data users.
Problem solving Data cleaning
As data professionals, there are
various skills we should have.
Data
Depending on the specific role Data visualisation Mathematics
professional
and responsibilities, additional
skills such as machine learning,
domain knowledge, database
Report writing Statistics
systems, and programming may
be required.
Presenting
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Key data tools
|
Data professionals use several different tools to leverage their data skills and knowledge, depending on
their role. Although we donʼt need to be proficient in all of them, itʼs important to know what the toolkit of
a data professional could look like.
Database management systems: Data visualisation and
Spreadsheets:
MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, dashboarding tools:
Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau,
Microsoft SQL Server, MongoDB,
Numbers, LibreOffice Calc QlikView
SQLite, Apache Cassandra
Programming languages: Integrated development Version control systems:
SQL, Python, R environments IDEs Git, Mercurial, Subversion
Visual Studio Code, Jupyter
Notebook, PyCharm, RStudio
Cloud computing platforms: Machine learning frameworks:
Amazon Web Services AWS, scikit-learn Python, TensorFlow,
Google Cloud Platform GCP, And many more.
Keras
Microsoft Azure
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Problem solving
Problem solving is a critical skill for all data
users because it provides structured,
transferable, and logical ways of
approaching data problems.
Depending on the problem we need to
solve, we use critical thinking “toolsˮ such
as logic trees and flowcharts to understand
the problem and plan a solution.
When we understand the problem, we apply a variety of
skills and tools to solve the problem. The tools we could use
include:
Database management
Spreadsheets
systems
Data visualisation and
Programming languages
dashboarding tools
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Data preparation and analysis
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Data preparation (cleaning) and analysis are critical
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The information extracted with these skills can drive
business strategy, optimisation, problem solving,
and innovation.
The tools we can use:
Database management
Spreadsheets
systems
Data visualisation and
Programming languages
dashboarding tools
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Mathematics and statistics
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Although mathematics and statistics may feel
overwhelming to many, understanding the Count 4301.00
fundamentals of these fields makes using data Mean 5653.48
easier.
Standard deviation 10057.09
Mathematics and statistics are critical for data Minimum 0.00
analysis, problem solving, and machine learning. 25% 1600.00
50% 3000.00
75% 5000.00
We can apply this knowledge and skills across various Maximum 250000.00
tools, including:
IQR = 3400
Database management Higher outliers > R 10100
Spreadsheets
systems The number of outliers: 508
households (11.81%)
Machine learning
Programming languages
frameworks
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An introduction to data and data analytics
Communication and storytelling
Strong communication skills are essential for data
practitioners to effectively share insights and findings
to non-technical stakeholders.
Unemployment and poverty in South Africa
The ability to translate complex data concepts into
clear meaningful narratives helps organisations to
make data-driven decisions.
We use data visualisation, dashboards, reports, and
presentations to communicate data insights.
The tools we can use:
Data visualisation and
Spreadsheets
dashboarding tools
Programming
languages
