Translate Data Into Actionable Business Insights

Western Continuing Studies launches course in Business Analytics

The 10-week course helps leaders turn data into action

In today’s digitally-driven business world, managers have access to more data than ever before. Whether it is used for marketing, human resources, R&D, or financial management, data can support sound decision-making and drive success. But data is only useful if people understand what the numbers mean.

“Organizations are generating vast amounts of data,” notes Christine Wilton, Program Manager, Professional and Corporate Learning at Western Continuing Studies. “Professionals need to be able to interpret and analyze information and know how to use it.”

To meet the growing need for data literacy, Western Continuing Studies is launching a new course in Business Analytics.

Developed and taught by accountant and Western University DAN Department of Management and Organizational Studies lecturer Raymond Leduc, the 10-week course is designed to help managers become data-driven problem solvers.

“I always tell students that there are three things we want to be able to do: identify any issues or opportunities; do the appropriate analysis, and then tell the story and make the appropriate recommendations,” he says. “Being able to do all three is a real asset to your organization, or on your own career path.”

What is Business Analytics?

Business Analytics uses data analysis, statistical modelling, and other quantitative methods to help solve complex problems. It can be used to forecast the potential outcomes of a new strategy, identify correlations between actions and results, and help determine the best way forward.

“Finding data is not the hard part,” says Leduc. “It’s how to manage it, and how to draw insights from it.”

Business Analytics at Western Continuing Studies

Delivered online with real-time learning, the WCS curriculum will teach students how to use data to perform both predictive and prescriptive analysis.

Topics covered include applying advanced Excel features and functions to different-sized data sets, interpreting data to share meaningfully with stakeholders, and making business decisions based on strong data analysis.

Students do not need to be familiar with Excel or have previous data management experience.

“We are going to start at the beginning,” Leduc says. “During the first three weeks we will look at basic financial analysis. In the following three weeks we will introduce some of the Excel tools. And during the last four weeks we will take a detailed look at some real-life examples.”

Students should expect three hours of learning each week, including a one-hour live session and two hours of pre-recorded videos. “The videos will be 10 or 15 minutes each so that students can watch in increments,” Leduc notes. “I don’t want anyone to feel intimidated. There will be a lot of opportunity to talk and share ideas.”

Earn an Accelerated Certificate in Management Essentials

The course in Business Analytics is a required credit in the new Accelerated Certificate in Management Essentials, offered through Western Continuing Studies.

“Many people are promoted to management without formal training,” notes Wilton. Developed for working adults, the stackable three-course certificate is a practical way for people to strengthen their leadership skills and gain confidence.

“Whether they are already in a management role or aspire to a management role, this certificate will help people with efficiencies, creativity, and problem-solving,” she says. “It’s knowledge they can apply immediately in their workplace.”