Future proof your career in an age of AI and data

Data-driven insights are driving business strategies like never before. The abundance of data being created every second of every day is super-charging business intelligence thanks to ever increasing computer power and data analytics capabilities.

If you are in business and want to maintain a competitive edge by putting data-driven decision making at the heart of what you do, you may want to upskill to stay abreast of trends in this fast-moving field.  Here’s why.

The drive for data

With new technologies, it’s never been easier to collect, store and analyse vast amounts of data, whether it’s social media interactions, supply chain logistics, or financial transactions.

Data is being collected from various sources, like the internet of things (IoT) and smartphones in real time, as well as from historical datasets, making it ever easier for your business to make data-informed decisions, quickly.

Get a return on your investment in data

It’s important for any business, whether it’s a start-up or large corporation, to ensure resources are put to good use, and it’s no different when it comes to data analytics. Just because the data’s there, doesn’t mean it’ll pay to analyse it. So how can organisations ensure a strong ROI from their data analytics initiatives?

Align analytics with your business strategy

Make sure all analytics projects align with your organisations strategic objectives and business goals

Focus on impact

What use cases are likely to bring most value to your business? Focus on what’s important to you and use data analysis to drive success.

Have clear KPIs

Being able to define and work towards measurable key performance indicators is a great way to focus on what works and helps you design meaningful data analytics initiatives that align to business success.

Think about operational efficiency

Using data analytics to identify operational inefficiencies is a quick win when it comes to improving workflow efficiencies, saving resources, and increasing automation. AI-powered tools can also help you identify risks within your business operations and develop strategies to mitigate those risks, supporting business reputation and assets alike.

Trustworthy data

In a world where big data is king, it’s important to know you are dealing with high quality data that adhere to data protection guidelines.   

The regulatory environment for data storage and use is also in flux as AI and machine learning tools become embedded in many aspects of our lives. Having an understanding of the regulatory environment, such as the EU AI Act and GDPR regulations is in high demand.

Rising demand for data science

The demand for highly skilled data analysts continues to rise as organisations increasingly rely on data to gain a competitive edge, optimise operations and inform decisions.  

Highly skilled data scientists, often with postgraduate qualifications, are particularly sought after in a competitive job market and increasingly so, as AI tools take over routine tasks and new trends emerge. Keeping that data science skill set sharp has never been more important.

There are lots of career opportunities in AI and data analytics and more will evolve as trends continue to change.

Build soft skills alongside technical skills

If you are looking for a job in artificial intelligence, you’ll need a strong foundation in computer science, including programming languages, machine learning, and data analysis, along with skills in problem-solving and critical thinking.

Remember, AI is a tool, not a human replacement and is powerful in augmenting what humans can do. Develop soft skills that only humans can acquire to help future proof your career in the AI field, including:

• Creativity and innovation
• Emotional intelligence
• Complex problem solving
• Leadership and management
• Communication

The AI landscape is constantly changing, so be open to continuous learning and improvement to fill skills gaps and remain adaptable and upskill as you journey along your career path. To help you with this, there are a variety of online courses available from universities and companies like Microsoft, that don’t require full-time commitment so you can study around paid work.

Networking with peers is also helpful, both in person and through online forums and webinars, and finding a mentor in an area of specialization you are keen to develop will also help your personal and professional development.

Top trends in data analytics

If you are looking to reskill or upskill to be ready for future trends in data analytics, according to a recent market research report from Gartner, the IT consulting firm, these are the trends in data analytics to watch out for:

• Generative AI is driving data and analytics capabilities, with predictive models and data visualisation tools pushing the boundaries of what analytics can do for your business 
• With so many technological advancements on offer, working out what’s best for your business needs a bright mind and data expertise  
• Maintaining and building trust in data is vital as the amount of AI generated misinformation spirals 
• Using data insights to empower employee autonomy in an increasingly remote workforce is a must.

Stay ahead in data analytics with an online MSc

If you are in business and keen to keep up with fast moving trends in data analytics to support strategic and operational goals, an online MSc Management with Data Analytics at Keele could be for you. This part-time masters is for leaders and aspiring leaders aiming to progress into more senior roles.

The programme is designed to develop well-rounded, reflective and practical professionals with a genuine appreciation of the strategic and operational challenges in running an organisation, particularly through the lens of harnessing data for success.

You can learn as you earn and put theory into real-world practice embedding your learning and fast-tracking your development while remaining focussed on your career.