Data Curious

Chapter 2. Data Knowledge and Skills

Data is the foundation of this entire book. By reading it, you are clearly taking an important step towards using data more than you are today, so it’s vital that you truly understand what we mean by data. One of the biggest challenges you may encounter when working with data is the terminology used to describe the values, fields, and files you will use.

Once you are familiar with the terminology, this chapter will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of data. These building blocks of data take many forms. By understanding where data comes from, you will be able to find useful sources, spot differences between them, and learn about what it takes to form a usable data source.

Finding and refining a data source for analysis to drive data-informed decisions isn’t the only output you are likely to create when working with data. This chapter will look at the various outputs your projects might create and at the key aspects of each type, as well as describing the essential factors that ensure each meets the project’s requirements.

As covered in Chapter 1, data fluency is a fundamental set of skills that are likely missing for many people in your organization. To create the benefit of data-informed decision-making and build valuable data propositions, you will need to fill this skill gap for yourself and others. The abilities required to ensure successful project outcomes will be covered so you know what aptitudes and expertise are required to ...