What is a business analytics dashboard, and how does it differ from traditional reporting?

A business analytics dashboard is an aggregate of multiple bits of data that is put together in an easily understandable format for the users and is updated in real-time. Unlike conventional reporting that relies on preparing standard fixed reports at a given interval (say, monthly or quarterly), dashboards offer constantly updated, even real-time information. They enable users to engage with the information and to filter to more detailed data, as well as to render it in the most convenient way.

How can a business analytics dashboard improve decision-making?

Dashboards play a significant role in helping business firms make the right decisions through timely provision of data together with easy-to-understand visual displays. Instead of going through the original data or the simple documents for summary reports, the decision makers can easily see patterns, generate alerts, and monitor organizational performance against the set benchmarks. It also allows them to work faster and be more accurate in their decision making as they fully understand the market and trends.

Can a business analytics dashboard be customized to meet specific industry needs?

Oh indeed, in fact, this is one of the greatest advantages of a , it is fully customizable. Common to all industries, the KPIs in dashboards can also be customized according to specific industries such as retail, healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. For instance, a retail firm may have to monitor the number of sales and customers’ buying behaviour, while a healthcare firm may have to monitor the time of patients waiting and the number of staff members on duty.