Structured Query Language (SQL) is quite popular in tech as a programming language used to query and change data saved in a database management tool. Now, it may be a compulsion for business analysts to know, however, it has become one of the most useful tools In the field. Hence, the common generalization of this as a requirement to become a practicing business analyst in most companies.
But is this really needed? What are the advantages of learning SQL for a business analyst? Read this article to get the gist.
Building and Maintaining Data Dictionaries
The role of business analysts varies in different organizations according to their available tools. Data dictionaries are one of the most important ways many organizations standardize their databases. For some, the task is handled by business analysts especially when other experts aren’t available. Either way, SQL is one language that aids the development of these data dictionaries either by using it as a reference or for more understanding of technical tasks.
With this, you see SQL as an added advantage to simplify the process of performing tasks as a business analyst. As a beginner that wants to start relevant in the field, it is important to take SQL classes after a business analysis training course.
Discovering Gaps for Analysis
The major role of a business analyst is to use the available data to develop realistic results to make predictions for future business goals. One of the ways this is achieved is by doing a gap analysis. This is a process that helps analysts foresee future results using the current information.
With the combination of other skills, business analysts now have a better method to formulate their gap analysis using SQL.Â
Conducting Risk Analysis
Just like gap analysis, another essential process business analysts follow is conducting risk analysis. This is a process that helps identify the negative impacts of the business project on the company.
With the use of SQL, experts can achieve probable results using the frequency of the language. This whole process helps the business stay in check and also allows stakeholders to arrive at more sustainable business decisions.
Simplifies Data Modeling Generation
Another important task of a business analyst is the generation of data modeling diagrams. These are pictorial representations of data sets, their features, and their relationship with others in the same group. While you can create data models without SQL, this tool is designed to simplify the process. Guess what? Different SQL tools can achieve this, so you get a numerous list for selection.
In case you’ve been struggling with data modeling development during your free business analyst training and placement, try learning SQL to get the task done.
Key Performance Indicators
KPIs are useful tools used by business analysts and organizations to measure the level of performance and growth of projects. The knowledge of SQL comes in handy at this point where the business analyst uses these indicators for project monitoring. Also, it helps especially where the business has no record of past KPIs which may result in a lot of stress for the expert. SQL is designed to solve this problem by using raw data for the analysis.
Data Mining
Data mining is a process that most business analysts recommend to stakeholders for better decision-making. More so, it is aimed at analyzing large amounts of business data. Really this can become overwhelming without the use of tools like SQL. With this, in no time you’ll be done with the process and prefer it, especially when practicing after your business analysis training course.
Conclusion
Why drop out of your free business analysis training and placement because of the fear of SQL. From this article, you have read that this language actually serves as an addition to your knowledge and experience on the job. More so, it helps you perform effectively as a business analyst regardless of your level or task. From data mining, data modeling, gaps, and risk analysis to measuring KPIs, SQL is surely a major need for all business analysts that want to perform tasks in an easy-peasy way.