Turning Numbers into Knowledge
Webinar Abstract
Quantitative problem solving is the process by which we take numbers and transform them into knowledge, using our instincts and experience to fill in when we don’t have all the answers. Although the technical aspects of this process are often taught, the art of problem solving is rarely discussed, even by trained business intelligence (BI) managers and analysts. Analysts “in the trenches” often forget that the ultimate goal of problem solving is information that can be used to make better decisions. And that’s the first most important rule about problem solving: It’s all about decisions, not about technical virtuosity or clever calculations. If the result is information that results in better decisions, you’ve achieved your goal. If not, you’ve wasted your time and that of the managers to whom you report. This webinar will help BI managers and analysts to more effectively assess, generate, and present the results of quantitative analyses, with the end result of improving their personal and professional decision making processes. You’ll learn which key questions to ask so that you’ll never again be at the mercy of those who traffic in “proof by vigorous assertion”. You’ll learn how to determine the most effective way to create the numbers you need. And you’ll learn the key tricks for presenting quantitative information effectively, which is one of the most important (but most neglected) skills for BI practitioners.
What you will learn:
- Why focusing data collection and analysis on specific decisions is the key to success
- Why honing your critical thinking skills is so essential
- The key principles for assessing other people’s analyses, creating your own analyses, and presenting your results in a compelling way
- Techniques for faster and more accurate back of the envelope thinking using simple conceptual models
- Which key books and other resources can help you find out more
Jonathan Koomey