Businesses must continuously assess the health of their organizations to reach target objectives, grow and overcome challenges and remain competitive in their industry. To ensure a business’ success, an organization may consult with a data management analyst.
These professionals evaluate and interpret data to help companies understand their market position and guide more informed business decisions. Analysts may concentrate in a specific sector or perform broad analyses across industries. Their goal, however, is always the same: to leverage data to overcome challenges and specify opportunities to improve operations and accelerate growth.
Learn more about the role of a data management analyst, how to pursue a career in this field and the job outlook for this sector.
What does a data management analyst do?
Data management analysts track and maintain databases and performance systems. While most data management analysts work in offices, new developments in technology and cloud-based data repositories are leading to more remote options.
Depending on the specific role, a career in data management may require you to travel to meet with clients to discuss your findings and present how leaders can use the data to make operational or structural improvements.
The job description and list of responsibilities for a data management analyst can include:
- Analyzing data to determine gaps and provide resolutions to such issues.
- Conducting quality reviews of internal and external data.
- Coordinating with IT personnel to enhance data reporting processes.
- Developing new methodologies to collect and store data efficiently and safely.
- Leveraging data solutions to address and resolve customer needs.
The role may also require working with developers to design more efficient, organized and secure databases. To use data effectively and enhance business performance, data management analysts use competencies in mathematics, computer programming and statistical analysis. A deep knowledge of data management best practices, strong written and oral communication skills and expertise in operating analytics software is also necessary to succeed in this role.
How to become a data management analyst
Earning a bachelor’s degree in a field that covers analytics, mathematics or computer science is the first step in building a career as a data management analyst. This curriculum develops data analysis competencies and teaches you how to operate relevant data management programs. Key topics explored may include:
- Big data analytics in business.
- Business data analytics.
- Business data mining.
- Business data warehouses and dimensional modeling.
- Data governance.
- Enterprise analytics.
- Information systems.
Upon graduation, pursuing entry- and associate-level positions within the data management field is the next step in following this career path. Once in the workforce, you may obtain additional certificates or pursue a Master of Science in business analytics to further develop proficiencies, such as:
- Analytical decision-making.
- Business analytics strategy.
- Data-driven quality management.
- Enterprise analytics.
- Marketing analytics.
Career outlook and earnings potential for data management analysts
The data management field boasts a high demand for qualified candidates. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 11% jump in total positions for the management analyst field — 6% higher than the national average rate of 5% — with approximately 101,900 new openings projected each year from 2021 to 2031.
In addition to an increasing number of job opportunities, the BLS noted the 2021 median salary for the data management sector as $90,300, equating to almost twice the median annual income for all workers in the U.S. ($45,760).
The pay scale for data management analysts may differ depending on abilities and knowledge, work experience, academic background and the industry in which the analyst works. For example, those working within the public sector, such as government bodies, may earn a lower salary than those working for tech or health care agencies in the private sector.
Earn your data management degree from Arizona State University
A career as a data management analyst features a positive job outlook and above-average salary expectations. If you’re considering pursuing this career path, Arizona State University offers online degree options to help you develop the core competencies needed to achieve your professional goals.
- The Bachelor of Science in business data analytics focuses on creating, inspecting and managing big data. With this degree, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about different data visualization tools and techniques, explore data mining methodologies and develop core critical thinking competencies.
- The Bachelor of Science in data science combines mathematics, statistics and computer science to apply data findings to relevant organizations. The curriculum’s focus on mathematics ensures you can analyze critical components of data and leverage statistical methodologies to perform data research.
- The Bachelor of Science in computer information systems concentrates on the skills needed to use technological tools and apply them to business processes across industries. By harnessing technology, you can facilitate positive business outcomes, develop more proficient operational strategies and identify opportunities for business growth.