What is Big Data? Is becoming a Data Analyst worth?

Big Data is a massive volume of structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data collection that is growing rapidly. Such data is so gigantic and complex that it cannot be processed from any traditional data management tool. To effectively manage the ever-increasing volume of unstructured data, companies demand data analysts & data scientists. In this blog, we will understand what Big Data and Data Analyst worth is. 

The primary responsibility of a data analyst is to collect, analyze, and interpret Big Data to improve a company’s operation. Over the last 5 years, the role of a Big data analyst has significantly evolved from being a data miner to a complex problem solver. Presently, large business models like Netflix & Walmart rely upon data intelligence.

Though data analytics has become the most critical for businesses, there remains a shortage of required skills for this position in the market. You can avail this opportunity to gain higher paychecks by learning the necessary skills in Big Data. This blog will evaluate the main reasons for the demand for Big Data Analysts and how you can build a career in Big Data.

 

Why is there a need for Data Analyst?

The amount of data that today’s businesses are generating and collecting is greater than ever. Companies collect data to get a better understanding of their customers. It is done by closely reading the collected data and thoroughly identifying correlations & interpretative patterns to draw useful information. For this purpose, companies look for professional data analysts proficient in organizing big data.

Let’s have a look at the reasons that led to the increase in demand for data analysts: 

• A surge in Data Generation- Data is generated in bulk at every hour of the day. Whether someone searches on Google, shares an Instagram post, or purchases something online, each activity generates a heap of data that needs to be stored and managed.
• Useful for Marketing Purpose- Modern-day customers are demanding and have many options. So, to understand their unique needs and improve the quality of services, businesses hire data analysts who can help them understand consumers’ wants.
• Increase in Internet-Connected Devices– There are around 31 billion IoT devices worldwide. It surrounds our lives to a large extent, from the personal to the professional realm. The following are the most-common internet-connected devices:  
  • Desktops, computer servers, laptops, monitors, hard drives
  • Smartphones, tablets, smart-watches
  • Security systems, locks, home alarms
  • Refrigerators, dryers
  • Voice-activated speakers like Siri or Alexa
  • Light switches, thermostats, Wi-Fi modems, and routers
  • Streaming and gaming devices like TV, play station

Internet of Business technology experts anticipates we’ll have 125 million cars connected by 2025. More devices connected to the internet will generate more data; hence, there will be more demand for people who know how to interpret data.

Scope and Future of Data Analyst

• IBM claims the annual demand for data analysts, data scientists, data developers & engineers will lead to 700,000 new hires by 2020. Also, the number of jobs for US data professionals will rise by 364,000 openings.
• Data Science and Analytics (DSA) jobs remain open for 45 days, five days longer to find qualified candidates than the market average.  
• DSA job demand is predominantly created in IT, Professional Services, Finance & Insurance sectors.
• The most lucrative data analytics skills are Apache Hadoop, Apache Pig, MapReduce, & Apache Hive.
• Top Companies in the US earnestly look for data analysts offering high salaries, as shown below:

Source- Indeed

Undoubtedly, salary is one of the major factors in searching for data analyst jobs and deciding on the next big gig. The more experience and skills you gain in the career field of a data analyst, the more lucrative options you get.

Which is the most popular coding language for Data Analyst Job?

70% of data scientists and analysts use Python as their primary coding language. It is the most used programming language that helps data analysts increase their skill set.

As employers are looking for competent data analysts with a well-rounded knowledge of SQL & Spark, knowing Python will only provide you with an added benefit.

Skills Required to Become a Data Analyst

• People with a mathematical background usually do well as data analysts. Besides, if you are competent in statistics, this career best fits you.
• Data analysts must possess remarkable coding skills and knowledge of technologies like Hadoop and coding languages Python.
• Data analysts should also be able to translate data graphically for the business audience.
• Efficient data analysts have the skills to dig through a pile of data and make connections. So critical thinking is a key factor for data analysts and data scientists.
• Soft Skills are equally important for data analysts to illustrate the value of their thoughts and articulate their findings to business people.

Conclusion

Considering the rapid growth of Big Data, one can determine that the demand for Big data analysts and data scientists will continue to increase. Those looking to build a data analyst career are likely to find opportunities across various industries, from healthcare to technology, media, finance, automotive, or aerospace. However, becoming a data analyst doesn’t happen overnight.

You need comprehensive knowledge of the latest technologies, programming languages & computer systems. Additionally, you should learn to use software analysis to work with Big Data, research ongoing market trends, & future jobs for data analysts.

Many career advancement options are waiting for those with the right skills. Enroll in our Big Data Hadoop training course to learn core concepts of the Hadoop framework, including Apache, Hive, MapReduce, & HBase.

Anytime you want to upgrade your skills and need a helping hand to enter or reenter the tech workforce with high-demand tech skills, reach out to us. Since 2010 we have helped thousands of job seekers succeed in the technology sector. SynergisticIT’s career-oriented training programs guarantee fast-paced, quality tech education, preparing you with top-notch skills for coveted tech roles in the industry. Reach out to us. SynergisticIT– Home of the Best Data Scientists and Software Programmers in the Bay Area!