Why Business Intelligence is the Job of the Future

Business Intelligence is an exciting field that is having a profound effect on the way that we do business. The integration of technical and business disciplines puts it on the cutting edge of companies’ digital transformation, making it one of the most in-demand jobs all over the world.

For those looking to kickstart their careers, this is an exciting arena of unlimited potential that promises rich rewards both personally and professionally.

What is Business Intelligence?

Business Intelligence (BI) involves gathering and analysing data in an organisation using a range of tools and technologies. By reporting on how a company is performing and how the outcomes came about the company is able to make better informed business decisions.

Because it’s partly technical, partly business and partly interpersonal, it’s always different. Each day brings fresh challenges, fresh problems to solve and new ways to make innovative use of your skills.

What is a typical day? No such thing.

It sounds cool because it is cool

When asked what you do, “I work in Business Intelligence” has got to be the “Bond, James Bond” of answers. Indeed, it has similarities to the secret service in that your work will be largely confidential, but you know it is making a positive impact.

Depending on who you work for, your skills at gathering, analysing, and evaluating information from a variety of resources could even impact criminal activity or national security threats. Cool, right?

Why work in Business Intelligence?

A key factor in why business intelligence is such an exciting career path is that it is never static, but constantly evolving. As an agent of change, not only are no two days alike, it’s always stimulating and you’re always learning.

Being relied upon by your team, from developers to stakeholders, to communicate critical findings from a fluid set of data can provide a very fulfilling sense of responsibility. And it’s enormously rewarding seeing the information you compile and work with driving recommendations that have a real, visible, measurable impact on the company’s performance and results.

Where can a Business Intelligence career take you?

The simple answer is that possibilities in business intelligence are virtually unlimited.

Career paths can lead to virtually every facet of business operations, in virtually every type of business, and in virtually every sector, including financial services, media, insurance, blockchain and retail, but also non-profits, charities, and government organisations.

It is also a career path offering a vast diversity of roles with opportunities to specialise and grow within an endless range of options.

From BI Engineer to data analyst, as your experience grows you will gain a better understanding of the roles for which you are suited based on your knowledge, aptitude and interests.

Is Business Intelligence a good career? Those working in BI generally report high job satisfaction and work-life balance. The high industry demand translates to good job security and competitive salaries. And it usually offers a high degree of flexible working arrangements, whether remotely from home – or anywhere in the world!

We go into greater detail about why you should pursue a career in BI in this blog.

Success Story: Danielle Loreck

Following her Bachelor of Commerce and Master’s in economics from University of Western Australia, Danielle Loreck decided to join the FDM graduate program in our Business Analysis and Business Intelligence stream to kickstart her career.

“The FDM grad program looked like a great opportunity to build on the statistical and data analysis skills I’d developed over my studies. FDM offered some practical, business-focused training in Excel and SQL, as well as the chance to learn about a new field – IT! 

Additionally, as a grad looking to establish myself in the corporate world, FDM’s support in placing consultants with a client was very attractive. I’ve learnt an incredible amount over the course of my FDM training and consultant experience.”   

With no prior professional work experience, Danielle is currently based in Melbourne and working as a Business Analyst in the Insurance industry.

Got you wondering how to get a job in Business Intelligence?

First of all, although it sounds technical, your qualifications don’t need to be. Any degree background can lead to a successful BI career.

People who thrive in this role tend to like working with ideas – hunting down relevant facts and trends and solving problems. They are good communicators who are attracted to initiating and leading projects, making decisions, and translating technical findings into practical business actions. They are collaborative team players who enjoy a fast-paced and varied work environment. The thinkers and entrepreneurs.

If you recognise yourself in that description, the FDM Business Analysis and Business Intelligence Graduate Program can equip you with all the ‘hard’ technical skills and ‘soft’ professional skills you need to launch this epic career journey.

Big data is like a wave that is building and starting to crest. Working in BI is for people who can surf.