Wow – we are now more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted virtually all aspects of life and business. And analysis. Around this time in 2020 I wrote this post which talks about important things to consider while doing analysis during uncertain, volatile times. During several weeks in March-April, 2020, sales […]
analytic skills
Analysis Tips During Very Uncertain Times
In these uncertain times, you’re probably asking (or being asked) questions like: What will the business look like for the rest of the year? Will it get back to normal and, if so, when? Will there be a “new normal” and what will that look like? Of course, there is no one right answer to […]
20 Golden Rules to Help You Shine As An Analyst
I was recently purging some old files. I found a long-buried gem, from my IRI days, that I want to share with you. These words of wisdom came from my all-star manager, Linda Abraham. Linda went on to co-found Comscore and is now an investor and advisor to tech companies. Note: when Linda crafted her […]
Are You Syndicated Data Literate? (Part 2)
Last month, I started my list of the top 10 syndicated retail sales data terms and concepts. Syndicated data from vendors Nielsen, IRI and SPINS is prevalent in the consumer goods industry. No matter your function, you’ll benefit from syndicated data literacy. Catch up with Part 1 (terms #1 – #5) if you didn’t read it […]
Test Your Knowledge: Are You Syndicated Data Literate? (Part 1)
In the CPG industry, syndicated retail sales data from vendors Nielsen, IRI and SPINS is everywhere. Users include retailers, brokers and distributors, direct sales and brand management teams, operations and supply chain forecasters, business journalists, and finance gurus! So if you’re in the CPG industry, you need to be syndicated data literate. Here’s a chance […]
Six Ways To Reduce Your (Inevitable) Data Errors
What are the three most important qualities of a great data analyst? 1. They know their data inside and out 2. They draw useful conclusions from their data. 3. They deliver accurate information Robin and I have written many articles addressing quality number one (knowing the data), which provides a solid base for a successful […]