The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit

An evidence-based organizational framework for exceptional analytics team results The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit provides managers with a practical manual for integrating data management and analytic technologies into their organization. Author Gregory Nelson has encountered hundreds of unique perspectives on analytics optimization from across industries; over the years, successful strategies have proven to share certain practices, skillsets, expertise, and structural traits. In this book, he details the concepts, people and processes that contribute to exemplary results, and shares an organizational framework for analytics team functions and roles. By merging analytic culture with data and technology strategies, this framework creates understanding for analytics leaders and a toolbox for practitioners. Focused on team effectiveness and the design thinking surrounding product creation, the framework is illustrated by real-world case studies to show how effective analytics team leadership works on the ground. Tools and templates include best practices for process improvement, workforce enablement, and leadership support, while guidance includes both conceptual discussion of the analytics life cycle and detailed process descriptions. Readers will be equipped to: * Master fundamental concepts and practices of the analytics life cycle * Understand the knowledge domains and best practices for each stage * Delve into the details of analytical team processes and process optimization * Utilize a robust toolkit designed to support analytic team effectiveness The analytics life cycle includes a diverse set of considerations involving the people, processes, culture, data, and technology, and managers needing stellar analytics performance must understand their unique role in the process of winnowing the big picture down to meaningful action. The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit provides expert perspective and much-needed insight to managers, while providing practitioners with a new set of tools for optimizing results.

Preface xi Acknowledgments xv Part I The Foundation of Analytics 1 Chapter 1 Analytics Overview 3 Chapter 2 The People of Analytics 38 Chapter 3 Organizational Context for Analytics 68 Chapter 4 Data Strategy, Platforms, and Architecture 95 Part II Analytics Lifecycle Best Practices 127 Chapter 5 The Analytics Lifecycle Toolkit 129 Chapter 6 Problem Framing 148 Chapter 7 Data Sensemaking 185 Chapter 8 Analytics Model Development 218 Chapter 9 Results Activation 266 Chapter 10 Analytics Product Management 301 Part III Sustaining Analytics Success 349 Chapter 11 Actioning Analytics 351 Chapter 12 Core Competencies for Analytics Teams 386 Chapter 13 The Future of Analytics 424 About the Author 433 About the Companion Web Site 435 Index 437