What are the key skills for a Data Analyst?

If you are thinking of entering the field of business analytics the below link is a good resource on what skills are required.

Key Data Analyst skills

I really like the emphasis the author of the article has placed on interpretation and not simply reporting numbers. I believe the three key skills are:

- Interpretation of data into meaningful information
- Knowledge of statistics and research methodologies
- Creativity

Burn out

Everyone is so busy these days that we tend to ignore early signs of a dangerous illness that can rob us of promotions, success, and above all happiness.

I found Rational NZ's article on Burnout really insightful. I've always tended to see the symptoms of anxiety etc that Froggatt (1997) describes the third and last stage as the 'usual' symptoms of burnout. However, as Froggatt (1997) states these are the final symptoms, and there are earlier signs which should be picked up and remedied.

http://www.rational.org.nz/orgs/workstress.htm

I strongly encourage others to visit this site, and to keep watch on yourself and workmates. By becoming aware of burnout steps can be taken to reduce stress. For me, tramping is an excellent way to unwind and de-stress. What are yours?

Is Scope Creep Evil?

I have always been under the impression that scope creep is something to be avoided. Yet this research article by Gurlen (2003) challenges that view.

Gurlen (2003) argues that under certain conditions scope creep should be encouraged in order to assure that the client's specifications are correct. After all you do not want to deliver a product that does not meet specifications.

I like this article and the below YouTube video courtesy of EngPMgt as it shows the strengths and weaknesses of scope creep, and demonstrates why it needs to be managed so carefully.

What is Cloud Computing, and its security?

Cloud computing has become the recent hot topic set to revolutionize data management by replacing isolated servers with servers that can be shared by everybody on the internet. It’s like electricity you do not generate your own electricity rather you hook up to the national grid. This blog for example uses cloud technology via Google blogs.

But how secure are clouds given that anybody can hook up to this resource? Pennsylvania State University urges people to be sensible, only sharing information that you don’t mind if other people obtain, and not storing any private information within clouds. Yet some people consider cloud technology being more secure than traditional methods, e.g. email, courier. After all, can you be sure no one at the mail centre reads your private correspondence?

Is this security fear of cloud technology just fear of new technology??

VBA for Excel

To all those people out there who want to start learning VBA for Excel, I suggest you watch the video below.



Although the video demonstrated a simple macro I like the video as it shows just how much more Excel can do via VBA than basic macro recording. If anyone wants to know more you can go to

http://www.youtube.com/user/VBA4Excel