Introduction

This training course on Business Intelligence and Analytics for Finance Professionals will explore how today’s finance experts can rise to the challenge of intense competition for customers and investors. The focus will be on transitioning from a limited reporting role to fully leveraging the opportunities presented by modern Business Intelligence (BI) and Business Analytics (BA) systems. The program will emphasize the tools and techniques that leading finance teams utilize to provide crucial insights needed by C-suite executives for effective data-driven decision-making.

 Key Highlights of This Course:

– The Essential Role of the 21st Century Finance Function
– Maximizing the Use of BI and BA Tools by Finance Professionals
– Enhancing Business Processes and Performance through BI and BA
– Statistical Analysis and Forecasting Principles and Practices
– Skills for Data Visualization and Infographics
– Agile Methods for Developing BI and BA Systems

 Objectives

This course will demonstrate how finance professionals can effectively apply Business Intelligence and Business Analytics techniques to enhance the information and insights available to managers and senior executives, enabling data-driven decision-making.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

– Frame financial insights within the context of business process improvement
– Utilize BI and Analytics tools to their fullest potential
– Develop key performance measures—both financial and non-financial
– Apply predictive analytics techniques
– Create compelling graphics for data visualization and infographics

 Training Methodology

This training will be conducted in an engaging workshop format, featuring activities, case studies, and practical examples. Participants will gain hands-on experience in using predictive analytics for business forecasting and employing Excel for effective data visualization and infographic presentations.

 Organizational Impact

Organizations will benefit from the enhanced skills and capabilities in communicating key financial insights to decision-makers, including:

– Increased awareness of critical business performance metrics
– Deeper financial insights through comprehensive use of BI and BA systems
– Better integration of financial and non-financial performance measures
– Enhanced data visualization and infographic skills
– Greater awareness of modern Agile approaches to system development
– Improved outcomes from data-driven decision management

 Personal Impact

Participants will expand their knowledge and practical skills in contemporary Business Intelligence and Business Analytics tools and techniques, gaining:

– The ability to frame financial insights in relation to business performance
– Up-to-date knowledge of leading BI and BA tools and systems
– Practical skills in statistical analysis and predictive analytics
– Increased involvement in management decision-making
– Familiarity with Agile and Scrum methodologies in system development
– Effective strategies for system implementation and change management

Who Should Attend?

This course is designed to elevate the skills and effectiveness of finance professionals engaged in financial planning, performance management reporting, or decision-making support within organizations that utilize modern Enterprise Resource Planning systems alongside BI and BA tools. It is particularly beneficial for:

– Finance Professionals across various sectors
– Head Office Planning Managers
– Budgeting and Forecasting Teams
– Commercial Managers
– Finance Strategic Business Partners

 Course Outline

Day 1
– Understanding Business Models and Processes
– Creating Value for Key Stakeholders
– The Role of the Modern Finance Professional
– Business Process Improvement and Re-engineering
– Introduction to Business Intelligence and Analytics
– Data-Driven Decision Management (DDDM)
– Key Financial Measures and Shareholder Value Drivers

Day 2
– Principles of Business Intelligence and Business Analytics
– Implementing a Business Performance Management Framework
– Defining Business Intelligence (BI) and its History
– Features, Tools, and Terminology of BI Systems
– Understanding Business Analytics (BA) and its Purpose
– Descriptive and Predictive Analytics Overview
– Sources and Types of BI and BA Tools

Day 3
– Statistical and Predictive Analytics Principles
– Understanding Statistical, Descriptive, and Predictive Analytics
– Business Database Features and Design
– Distribution and Probability Theory Basics
– Time Series Data Analysis Techniques
– Forecasting with Moving Averages and Linear Regression
– Monte Carlo Simulation in Excel for Analysis and Forecasting
– Predictive Analytics through “What-If” Forecasts

Day 4
– Data Visualization and Infographics for Finance
– Defining Data, Information, and Insights
– Comparing Data Visualization and Infographics
– Effective Use of Charts and Graphics
– Designing Visuals for Non-Financial Users
– Utilizing Excel and PowerPoint for Visualization
– Creating and Using Scorecards and Dashboards
– Practical Tips for Building Dashboards in Excel

Day 5
– Implementing BI/BA Systems and Managing Change
– An Agile Approach to Systems Development
– Practical Steps in Agile BI/BA Design and Implementation
– The Importance of Urgency in Change Initiatives
– Effective Strategies for Achieving Change
– Overcoming Resistance to Change