Define Your Analytics Priority

I've read the recent IBM and MIT research report, and I think it's worthwhile reading for organizations building their analytics strategy. There's some great advice:

• Start with questions, not data.
• Embed insights to drive action.
• Top performers view analytics as a differentiator.
• Analytics are important for both operational and strategic initiatives.
• Information must become easier to understand.
• Analytics initiatives will not be delivered by IT

I take issue with a couple of points in the study. I think the definition of "data visualization" in the report is too loosely defined -- especially given the "easier to understand" directive noted above. And I strongly disagree that there are "standard tools" to enable the transformed organization, nor should that be the focus.

The digram below does a nice job showing how the priorities in analytics are changing, and can help guide your investment and priority (with the Analytics Quadrant, of course).