FUTURE TECHNOLOGY
Why channel partners should embrace business analytics
Business analytics ( BA ) is the iterative , methodical exploration of an organisation ’ s data , with an emphasis on statistical analysis . Channel pundits share insights on how solution provider partners can succeed in implementing business analytics tools for their end user customers , writes Manda Banda .
Successful business analytics depends on data quality , skilled analysts who understand the technologies and business , and an organisational commitment to using data to gain insights that inform business decisions . Business analytics is used by companies that use data-driven decision-making .
According to Statista . com , revenue from Big Data and business analytics in the Middle East and Africa ( MEA ) has grown from US $ 2.2 billion in 2017 to US $ 3.2 billion in 2020 .
Odette Malkoun , Business Channel Manager , Milestone Systems , said the channel market in MEA should expect to see a further rise in the adoption of analytics solutions among SMBs and at enterprise level . Malkoun said a key reason for this is the next generation of wireless technology , 5G – which is the foundational technology for a greater use of AI and Big Data .
“ We have seen that channel partnerships in the past have been hampered by lack of quality data availability . Decisions have been based on everything but data including instinct , relationships and outdated best-practices ,” she said . “ At Milestone we
Odette Malkoun , Business Channel Manager , Milestone Systems introduced a programme a few years ago called the Partner Business Review or PBR for short . It ’ s a strategy meeting where we share with our channel partners data about the partnership such as revenue data , certifications and support tickets in order to take informed decisions and develop plans and actions to fill any gaps that might exist .”
Stephen Gill , Academic Head , School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences , Heriot-Watt University Dubai , said the business analytics industry in the Middle East and Africa ( MEA ) region is filled with numerous opportunities . “ Governments in the GCC have set ambitious plans and targets to unlock the possibilities offered by Big Data . These include initiatives such as Smart Dubai , Tasmu Qatar , UAE Smart Data Strategy and KSA Digital Strategy for
example . “ Business analytics is now seen as a valuable tool that will help these countries drive economic growth and improve decision-making ,” he said .
Malkoun said using data for your partnership will give your channel partners a more personalised and engaging experience and that will result in higher
The channel market in MEA should expect to see a further rise in the adoption of analytics solutions among SMBs and at enterprise level .
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