Asm Part1 PBS BH00610
Asm Part1 PBS BH00610
Student declaration
I certify that the assignment submission is entirely my own work and I fully understand the consequences of plagiarism. I understand that
making a false declaration is a form of malpractice.
Grading grid
P1 P2 P3 P4 M1 M2 D1
Summative Feedback: Resubmission Feedback:
At ABC Manufacturing, we recognize that success in today's competitive market hinges on our ability to
anticipate and adapt to changing market dynamics with precision and agility. In this regard, data serves as
our guiding compass, providing invaluable insights that inform every decision we make across the supply
chain.
Central to our data-centric approach is the ability to forecast demand with unparalleled accuracy. By
analyzing historical sales data, monitoring market trends, and discerning customer preferences, ABC
Manufacturing can proactively adjust production and inventory levels to align with anticipated demand.
This not only minimizes the risk of stockouts and excess inventory but also optimizes resource utilization,
resulting in significant cost savings and heightened customer satisfaction.
Moreover, our reliance on data extends beyond demand forecasting to encompass risk mitigation and
resilience-building measures. Through robust data analytics, we can identify potential disruptions within the
supply chain and implement proactive contingency plans to minimize their impact. This pr oactive stance
not only safeguards business continuity but also enhances our ability to navigate the complexities of a
volatile global marketplace with confidence and resilience.
II.Discuss the use of data and information to support business processes and the value they have for
an identified organisation
• Strategy overview.
• Customer contact information.
In fact, any type of information that your employees save for use in marketing, operations, human resources,
or sales planning could technically be considered business data.
Even marketing data, which is so important for making the right advertising decisions, is an important aspect
of the bigger business data picture.
Typically, this level of information may also include individual customer details or proprietary information.
So, it's important to have a robust hosting solution with plenty of security measures in place.
Failure to take appropriate precautions can result in violations, leading to heavy fines or even lawsuits.
Some elements of business data, such as detailed information about individual consumers, are managed by
various forms of government authority.[1]
Even insignificant information and details should always be stored safely and securely.
• Operational Information: This type of information pertains to the day-to-day activities and
transactions that occur within an organization. It includes data related to production schedules,
inventory levels, sales orders, purchase orders, and customer interactions. Operational information
is crucial for managing workflows, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring smooth operational
efficiency.
• Financial Information: Financial information encompasses data related to the financial health and
performance of the organization. This includes financial statements such as balance sheets, income
statements, cash flow statements, and budgets. Financial information provides insights into revenue
generation, expense management, profitability, and liquidity, enabling stakeholders to assess the
overall financial health of the business and make informed financial decisions.
• Customer Information: Customer information includes data about current and prospective
customers, their preferences, purchasing behaviors, demographics, and interactions with the
organization. This type of information is essential for developing targeted marketing strategies,
personalizing customer experiences, and building long-term relationships with customers. Customer
information may be collected through various channels such as sales transactions, surveys, social
media interactions, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
• Market Information: Market information encompasses data about the external business environment,
including industry trends, market dynamics, competitor analysis, and regulatory changes. It provides
insights into market demand, consumer behavior, emerging technologies, and competitive
landscape, enabling organizations to identify opportunities, anticipate challenges, and adapt their
strategies accordingly. Market information may be gathered from sources such as market research
reports, industry publications, trade associations, and government agencies.
• Employee Information: Employee information includes data about the organization's workforce,
such as employee demographics, skills, performance evaluations, training records, and
compensation details. This type of information is crucial for workforce planning, talent management,
performance evaluation, and compliance with labor regulations. Employee information may be
stored in human resource management systems (HRMS) or employee databases, accessible to
relevant stakeholders within the organization.
• Strategic Information: Strategic information encompasses data that supports long-term planning and
decision-making at the organizational level. It includes strategic goals, objectives, performance
metrics, and key initiatives aimed at achieving competitive advantage and sustainable growth.
Strategic information provides a framework for aligning business activities with overarching
organizational goals and responding to changes in the business environment effectively.
Information and data play integral roles in supporting business processes across various functional areas
within an organization. Here's how they support these processes:
• Informed Decision-Making: Data and information provide the foundation for informed decision-
making at all levels of an organization. By analyzing relevant data and synthesizing it into
meaningful information, stakeholders can make strategic decisions that align with organizational
goals and objectives.
• Risk Management: Data and information facilitate proactive risk management by providing insights
into potential risks and vulnerabilities within business processes. By monitoring key risk indicators
and analyzing historical data, organizations can identify emerging risks, implement preventive
measures, and mitigate the impact of unforeseen events on their operations.
• Customer Engagement: Customer data and market information play a crucial role in understanding
customer needs, preferences, and behavior. By analyzing customer data, organizations can
personalize their marketing efforts, tailor products and services to meet customer demands, and
enhance overall customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Supply Chain Management: Data and information support effective supply chain management by
providing visibility into the entire supply chain ecosystem. By tracking inventory levels, monitoring
supplier performance, and analyzing demand forecasts, organizations can optimize inventory
management, minimize stockouts, and ensure timely delivery of goods and services to customers.
• Compliance and Reporting: Data and information are essential for regulatory compliance and
reporting requirements. By maintaining accurate records and documentation, organizations can
ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards, facilitate audits, and demonstrate
accountability and transparency in their business operations.
• Informed Decision-Making: Data and information provide the foundation for informed decision-
making at all levels of the organization. By analyzing relevant data and synthesizing it into
actionable insights, decision-makers can make strategic choices that align with organizational goals
and objectives, leading to more effective and efficient outcomes.
• Competitive Advantage: Data and information serve as a source of competitive advantage for
organizations, enabling them to gain deeper insights into market trends, customer preferences, and
competitor strategies. By leveraging data-driven insights, organizations can identify opportunities,
anticipate challenges, and stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
• Customer Satisfaction: Data and information play a crucial role in enhancing customer satisfaction
by enabling organizations to personalize products and services, anticipate customer needs, and
deliver exceptional experiences. By analyzing customer data and feedback, organizations can tailor
their offerings to meet customer preferences, resolve issues proactively, and build long-term
relationships with their customers.
• Innovation: Data and information fuel innovation within organizations by providing insights that
inspire new ideas, products, and services. By analyzing market trends, customer behavior, and
emerging technologies, organizations can identify innovative opportunities, develop creative
solutions, and differentiate themselves in the marketplace.
2.6. Types of data in organisations and how they is generated
Internal data refers to the information generated within an organization through its internal operations and
processes. This type of data is crucial for decision-making, strategic planning, and operational efficiency.
Here are some key points about internal data:
• Examples of internal data include sales records, employee performance data, financial statements,
inventory levels, and internal communications.
• Quantitative Data: This includes numerical data such as sales figures, production volumes, and
financial metrics. Quantitative data is often used for statistical analysis and performance
measurement
• Qualitative Data: This includes non-numerical data such as employee feedback, customer service
interactions, and internal reports. Qualitative data provides context and insights that are not captured
by numbers alone
• Operational Systems: Internal data is often generated through the day-to-day operations of the
organization. For example, point-of-sale systems generate sales data, while enterprise resource
planning (ERP) systems track inventory and production data.
• Employee Activities: Data is also generated through employee activities such as time tracking,
performance reviews, and internal communications.
• Financial Transactions: Financial data is generated through accounting systems that record
transactions, manage budgets, and produce financial statements.
• Customer Interactions: Internal data can also come from customer interactions managed through
customer relationship management (CRM) systems, which track customer inquiries, complaints, and
feedback.
2.6.2.External Data
External data is information that comes from sources outside the organization or system. This can be
different types of data such as market research reports, social media posts, sensor data, weather forecasts,
economic indicators, government statistics, and much more.
Sources of external data can vary depending on the specific context, but some common examples include:
• Third-party vendors: Many companies specialize in collecting and providing specific types of data
such as consumer behavior data, financial market data, or geographic data. These providers often
aggregate data from multiple sources and sell access to other organizations.
• Social media platforms: Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram generate large amounts of
data through user interactions such as posts, comments, likes, and shares.
Figure 3 : what is External Data
• Market and Consumer Data: Includes information about the market, consumer trends, and data from
surveys and market research.
• Weather Data: Provides information about weather forecasts, climate conditions, and environmental
changes.
• Economic Data: Includes economic indicators such as GDP, unemployment rate, inflation, and other
financial indicators.
• Social Media and Media Data: Includes data from social media platforms, online news, and other
media.
• Geography and Location Data: Provides information about geographic locations, locations, and geo-
related data.
• Government agencies and research organizations: Statistical and research data are generated by
government agencies and research organizations.
• Commercial companies and services: Commercial companies and services collect and provide data
on markets, consumption, and other sectors.
• Users and online communities: Users create data through posting, interacting, and sharing on online
platforms.
• IoT devices and sensors: Data is generated from sensors and IoT devices through environmental and
activity monitoring.
• Web services and APIs: Data is created and made available through web services and APIs, allowing
applications and systems to access and use information.
• Transactional Data: This type of data is generated through day-to-day transactions and operations
within the organization. Examples include sales transactions, customer interactions, inventory
movements, financial transactions, and employee activities. Transactional data is typically captured
automatically through enterprise systems such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM),
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Point of Sale (POS), and accounting software.
• Customer Interactions: Organizations collect data from interactions with customers through various
channels such as in-person interactions, phone calls, emails, web chats, and social media
interactions. This data includes customer inquiries, complaints, feedback, preferences, and
purchasing behavior. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are often used to manage
and analyze this data.
• Surveys and Feedback: Organizations conduct surveys, questionnaires, and feedback forms to gather
data directly from customers, employees, suppliers, or other stakeholders. This data provides insights
into satisfaction levels, preferences, opinions, and areas for improvement. Survey tools, online
forms, and feedback management systems are commonly used to collect and analyze survey data.
• Operational Monitoring and Sensors: Many organizations use sensors, IoT devices, and monitoring
systems to collect data on various aspects of their operations. For example, manufacturing
companies may use sensors to monitor equipment performance and production processes, while
logistics companies may use GPS tracking to monitor vehicle movements and shipments. This data
helps optimize operations, improve efficiency, and identify potential issues.
• Web and Social Media Analytics: Organizations track website traffic, user interactions, and social
media engagement to gather data on customer behavior, preferences, and trends. Web analytics tools
such as Google Analytics provide insights into website performance, user demographics, traffic
sources, and content engagement. Social media monitoring tools track mentions, hashtags, likes,
shares, and comments across social media platforms to understand brand sentiment and audience
engagement.
2.7. Tools for Data processing
Microsoft Excel is a popular spreadsheet application used to enter, organize, calculate, and displa y data in
tables and charts. Here are some highlights about Excel:
• Versatility: Excel offers a wide range of features and tools for data processing, from basic
calculations to complex analysis. Users can perform calculations, sort and filter data, and crea te
charts and dashboards.
• Data Analysis Tools: Excel provides several built-in data analysis tools such as PivotTables and
PivotCharts, which allow users to organize and analyze data effectively. These tools help users
summarize, synthesize, and display data easily.
• Data Visualization: Excel allows users to create charts, graphs, and dashboards to visualize data
visually. Popular chart types include column, line, pie, and scatter charts, which help users better
understand data and trends.
• Integration with other apps: Excel integrates well with other apps in the Office suite and online
services like SharePoint and Power BI. This allows users to share and work with data easily and
effectively.
Power BI is a data analysis and visualization platform developed by Microsoft. Here are some highlights
about Power BI:
• Connect and Integrate Data: Power BI allows users to connect and organize data from a variety of
sources, including databases, Excel spreadsheets, online services, and mobile applications. This
allows users to work with data from multiple sources conveniently.
• Create Interactive Dashboards and Reports: Power BI allows users to create interactive dashboards
and reports to visualize and analyze data. These dashboards can be created easily by dragging and
dropping components, and allow user interaction to explore data.
• Visualizations Library and Community: Power BI has a large and diverse community of users and
developers, providing ready-made report templates and visualizations. It also has a rich library of
visualizations and extensive chart sets, allowing users to create unique and engaging reports.
• Collaborate and Share: Power BI allows users to share dashboards and reports with colleagues and
associates. Users can share real-time reports and manage access rights, ensuring that everyone has
secure and efficient access to data and information.
Figure 5 : Power BI
Google Data Studio:
Google Data Studio is a free tool from Google that allows users to create reports and dashboards similar to
Power BI and Tableau. Here are some highlights about Google Data Studio:
• Data integration: Google Data Studio allows users to connect to different data sources, including
Google Analytics, Google Sheets, Google Ads, BigQuery, MySQL, and many others. This allows
users to organize and aggregate data from various sources into one dashboard or report.
• Flexible design: Google Data Studio provides an intuitive graphical editor, allowing users to create
custom reports and dashboards. Users can add charts, graphs, tables, and other elements to visualize
and analyze data visually.
• Interactivity and sharing: Google Data Studio allows users to create interactive reports, allowing
users to interact with data and perform dynamic analysis. Users can also share reports with
colleagues and collaborators, allowing them to access and interact with the data.
• Easy to use: Google Data Studio has an easy-to-use interface and users do not need programming
skills to use it. This tool is designed to be easy for users of all skill levels.
Tableau is a powerful data visualization and data analysis tool, widely used in businesses and organizations.
Here are some highlights about Tableau:
• Connect to multiple data sources: Tableau allows users to connect and organize data from a variety
of sources, including databases, Excel spreadsheets, online services, and other data sources. This
allows users to work with data from multiple sources conveniently.
• Data analysis and visualization: Tableau provides powerful tools for data analysis and visualization.
Users can create interactive charts, graphs, dashboards, and reports to explore and understand data.
• Integration with other tools: Tableau integrates well with other tools and services, including
Microsoft Office applications, database management systems, and cloud computing services. This
helps users share and work with data
Figure 7 : Tableau
2.7.2. Programming language for data processing
Python:
Python is a general-purpose programming language that is easy to learn and use, commonly used in many
fields, including data processing, data analysis, machine learning, and web development. Here are some
highlights about Python:
• Simple Syntax: Python has a simple and readable syntax, which helps programmers write code easily
and efficiently.
• Rich libraries: Python has a large and vibrant community, providing many powerful libraries and
frameworks for data processing and data analysis such as Pandas, NumPy, Scikit -learn, and
Matplotlib.
• Versatile: Python can be used for a variety of purposes, from scripting to developing web
applications and building complex systems.
• Support for machine learning and AI: Python is one of the most popular languages in the field of
machine learning and AI, with powerful libraries like TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch.
Figure 8 : Python
R:
R is a programming language and statistical development environment, used primarily in data analysis,
statistics, and data visualization. Here are some highlights about R:
• Data analysis libraries: R has a number of rich software packages for data analysis and statistics,
including ggplot2, dplyr, tidyr, and many more.
• Data Graphing: R has a number of powerful software packages for data graphing, allowing users to
create complex and beautiful graphs.
• Statistical Development Environment: RStudio is a popular statistical development environment
used to write R code and perform data analysis.
Figure 9 : R
Java:
Java is a powerful and versatile programming language, commonly used for developing complex
applications and systems. Here are some highlights about Java:
• Cross-platform: Java is a cross-platform language that can run on many different operating systems
without modifying the source code.
• Powerful and flexible: Java provides a series of powerful features and libraries for application
development, including automatic memory management, thread management, and rich libraries.
• Widely used: Java is widely used in fields such as web development, mobile applications, big data,
and distributed systems.
Figure 10 : Java
Reason :
Powerful Visualization: Power BI provides powerful tools for data visualization. With Power BI, you can
create interactive charts, dashboards, and reports easily and effectively.
Easy Data Integration: Power BI enables easy connection and integration of data from various sources. This
helps organizations collect and organize data from various sources to perform com prehensive analysis.
Collaborate and Share: Power BI allows users to share and collaborate online on reports and dashboards.
This facilitates teamwork and easy information sharing within the organization.
Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: Power BI integrates well with other applications and services in the
Microsoft ecosystem such as SharePoint and Office 365, making it easy to share and use data.
Programming language for data processing : Python
Reason :
Versatile and Powerful: Python is a versatile and powerful programming language, widely used in many
fields from data processing to web development and machine learning.
Rich Libraries: Python has a large and vibrant community, providing many powerful libraries and
frameworks for data processing and data analysis such as Pandas, NumPy, and Scikit-learn.
Integration with Power BI: Python can be directly integrated into Power BI through Power BI Python
Scripting, allowing users to expand data analysis and processing capabilities by using Python code in r eports
and dashboards. your control.
Flexibility: Python is flexible and easily adaptable to project-specific needs. You can use Python for data
processing, data analysis, and even deploying machine learning models effectively.
2.8.1. Individual
The valuable property of data and information in the context of the individual is very important. For each
individual, data and information can represent many different types of value, including:
Finances: Data about personal finances, including information about income, assets, and debt, can be
considered valuable assets. Protecting your financial information can help prevent financial abuse or fraud.
Ryisk and Security: Sensitive information such as phone numbers, addresses, and personal information can
be used to steal identities or commit fraud. Protecting personal information can help prevent cyber attacks
and security breaches.
Intelligence: Data and information can include knowledge, skills, and personal experience. Protecting and
managing this information can help protect creativity and contribute to personal and professional
development.
Communication and Relationships: Information about communication and personal relationships can also
be considered valuable assets. Maintaining privacy and managing information related to communication
can help maintain healthy relationships and build networks.
Health and Positive Living: Personal health data, including medical history and medical information, are
also valuable assets. Protecting this information is not only important for protecting personal health, but it
also helps improve quality of life and optimism.
2.8.2. Organization
In the context of organizations, data and information also play a very important role and have great value.
Here are some examples of how data and information can be considered valuable organizational assets:
Customer Data: Information about customers, including personal profiles, contact information, purchase
history and shopping habits, is an important resource that helps organizations better understand their needs
and customer's wishes.
Product and Service Information: Product and service data, including information about quality, price, and
customer feedback, helps organizations improve their products and services to meet their needs. meet market
needs.
Financial Data: Information about an organization's finances, including revenues, profits, and costs, is a
decisive factor in management and strategic decision making.
Management and Internal Operations Data: Information about people management, work processes, and
organizational performance can help improve internal operations efficiency and increase labor productivity
.
Market and Competitive Information: Data about the market and competitors, including market analysis and
competitive data, is a valuable source of information that helps organizations shape business strategies and
enhance competition.
2.8.3. In my project
In this report, I will use Power BI software to apply various data visualization techniques to analyze sales
and product quantities. The following charts provide insights into different aspects of the data, including
revenue distribution, product sales trends, and customer behavior.
Figure 1: Revenue by product category
Description: Bar chart displays total revenue (TotalAmount) for each product category (CategoryName).
The "Books" category had the highest revenue, followed by "Clothing" and "Sports".
Description: Pie chart showing the revenue percentage of each product category (CategoryName). The
"Books" category accounts for the largest proportion, about 28.57%, followed by "Clothing" with 21.43%.
Description: Bar chart displays the number of products (Quantity) in each category (CategoryName). The
"Sports" category has the largest number of products.
Description: Line chart displays total revenue (TotalAmount) over time (Date). There are significant
fluctuations in daily revenue.
III.Discuss the implications of the use of data and information to support business processes in a
real world scenario
3.1. The social legal implications of using data and information in business
3.1.1.Social Implications
Privacy Concerns : One of the primary social implications of using data in business is the concern over
privacy. With the rise of big data and advanced analytics, businesses have unprecedented access to personal
information. This raises concerns about how this data is collected, stored, and used. Consumers are
increasingly aware of their privacy rights and expect businesses to handle their data responsibly.
Trust and Transparency : Transparency in data practices is vital for building and maintaining consumer trust.
Businesses that are transparent about their data collection methods, usage, and protection measures are more
likely to earn the trust of their customers. Conversely, any perceived misuse of data can lead to a loss of
trust, reputational damage, and ultimately, a loss of business.
Ethical Considerations : The ethical use of data goes beyond legal compliance. It involves considering the
broader impact of data practices on society. Businesses must navigate issues such as data bias,
discrimination, and fairness in their data-driven decisions. For instance, algorithms used in hiring processes
or loan approvals must be scrutinized to ensure they do not perpetuate existing biases.
Impact on Employment : Automation and data-driven decision-making can lead to significant changes in
the workforce. While data analytics can improve efficiency and productivity, it can also result in job
displacement. Businesses need to consider the social implications of these changes and explore ways to
support and retrain affected employees.
Compliance Costs : Complying with data protection regulations can be costly for businesses. It involves
investing in data protection technologies, conducting regular audits, and training employees on data
protection practices. Non-compliance can result in severe financial penalties and legal action, making it
imperative for businesses to prioritize compliance.
Intellectual Property Issues : Data can be a valuable intellectual property asset. However, businesses must
navigate complex legal issues related to data ownership, sharing, and use. For instance, data generated from
collaborative projects or sourced from third parties may have shared ownership rights, neces sitating clear
agreements and contracts.
Cybersecurity and Data Breaches : Legal implications of data use also encompass cybersecurity. Businesses
are legally obligated to protect the data they collect from unauthorized access and breaches. Failure to do
so can result in legal action, fines, and loss of consumer trust. Laws such as the GDPR require businesses
to report data breaches within a specific timeframe, adding to the legal responsibilities.
Liability and Accountability : As businesses rely more on data-driven technologies, questions of liability
and accountability arise. For example, if an algorithm used by a business makes a harmful decision,
determining accountability can be complex. Legal frameworks are evolving to address these issues, and
businesses must stay informed and adapt to these changes.
Enhance Transparency: Communicate openly with customers about data practices. Provide clear privacy
policies and offer options for data access and control.
Invest in Cybersecurity: Implement robust security measures to protect data from breaches and unauthorized
access. Regularly update these measures to address evolving threats.
Conduct Ethical Audits: Regularly review data practices to identify and address any ethical issues. This
includes evaluating algorithms for bias and ensuring fairness in data-driven decisions.
Engage in Continuous Learning: Stay informed about changes in data protection laws and best practices.
Provide ongoing training for employees to ensure compliance and ethical data handling.
Informed Consent : Ethical data practices require obtaining informed consent from individuals before
collecting their data. This means that individuals should fully understand what data is being collected, how
it will be used, and who it will be shared with. Consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and
unambiguous. Businesses should provide clear and accessible privacy policies and ensure that consent is an
ongoing process, allowing individuals to withdraw it at any time.
Accountability for Data Use : Businesses must take responsibility for their data practices and the impacts
they have on individuals and society. This includes being accountable for any data breaches, misuse of data,
or unethical data practices. Establishing robust data governance frameworks and appointing data protection
officers can help ensure that businesses remain accountable.
Fair Treatment of Individuals : Ethical data use also involves ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly
and equitably. This means avoiding discriminatory practices in areas such as hiring, lending, and marketing.
Businesses should regularly audit their data practices to identify and address any potential biases or unfair
treatment.
Promoting Ethical Data Culture : Creating an ethical data culture within a business involves promoting
ethical values and practices among employees. This includes providing training on data ethics, encouraging
ethical decision-making, and fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to raise ethical
concerns. An ethical data culture helps ensure that ethical considerations are integrated into all aspec ts of
data use.
3.3. Why we must have regulator for using data and information in business
Introduction
In the modern digital age, data and information have become invaluable assets for businesses. The ability
to collect, analyze, and utilize data can significantly enhance business operations, decision-making
processes, and overall competitiveness. However, the unregulated use of data and information poses
significant risks and ethical concerns. Thus, establishing regulatory frameworks for the use of data a nd
information in business is essential for various reasons, including protecting consumer rights, ensuring data
privacy and security, maintaining trust, and promoting fair competition.
Consumers are often unaware of the extent to which their personal data is collected, used, and shared by
businesses. Without regulation, businesses might misuse or exploit consumer data for purposes beyond the
original intent, leading to potential harm or privacy breaches. Regulations ensure that consumers are
informed about data collection practices and have control over their personal information. For example, the
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union grants individuals the right to access,
rectify, and erase their data, thereby empowering consumers and protecting their rights.
Data breaches and cyber-attacks have become increasingly common, with severe implications for both
businesses and consumers. Unregulated data practices can lead to inadequate security measures, making
sensitive information vulnerable to unauthorized access. Regulatory frameworks mandate stringent data
protection measures, requiring businesses to implement robust security protocols to safeguard data. This not
only protects individuals' privacy but also mitigates the risk of financial losses and reputational damage for
businesses.
Maintaining Trust
Trust is a fundamental component of the relationship between businesses and their customers. When
consumers trust that their data is handled responsibly and ethically, they are more likely to engage with and
remain loyal to a business. Regulatory compliance signals to consumers that a business is committed to
maintaining high standards of data protection and ethical practices. This trust is crucial for sustaining long -
term customer relationships and enhancing brand reputation.
In the absence of regulation, businesses with extensive resources might monopolize data, creating unfair
competitive advantages. Regulatory frameworks ensure a level playing field by promoting transparency and
preventing the misuse of data for anti-competitive practices. For instance, regulations can prevent dominant
firms from leveraging data to unfairly exclude competitors or manipulate markets. By fostering fair
competition, regulations encourage innovation and benefit consumers through diverse choices and improved
services.
Ethical Considerations
The ethical use of data involves respecting individuals' privacy and avoiding practices that can lead to
discrimination or harm. Regulations provide guidelines for ethical data use, ensuring that businesses adhere
to principles of fairness, accountability, and transparency. For example, algorithms and artificial intelligence
systems that rely on data must be designed to prevent biases and ensure equitable treatment of all
individuals. Regulatory oversight helps prevent unethical practices, such as discriminatory profiling or
intrusive surveillance.
In a globalized economy, businesses often operate across multiple jurisdictions with varying data protection
laws. Regulatory frameworks help harmonize data practices, ensuring that businesses comply with
international standards and avoid legal complications. This is particularly important for multinational
corporations that need to navigate complex regulatory environments. Adhering to standardized regulations
facilitates smoother international operations and fosters trust among global consumers and partners.
3.4. Identify common threats to data and information
Phishing Attacks:
• Description: Cybercriminals send deceptive emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate
sources, tricking individuals into revealing personal information such as passwords, credit card
numbers, or social security numbers.
• Impact: Compromises personal accounts, leading to financial loss and identity theft.
Malware:
• Description: Malicious software such as viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware can infect
personal devices, stealing or corrupting data.
• Impact: Data loss, unauthorized access to personal information, and potential ransom demands.
Social Engineering:
• Description: Manipulative tactics where cybercriminals exploit human psychology to gain access to
confidential information.
• Impact: Unauthorized access to sensitive data, financial fraud, and identity theft.
Data Breaches:
• Description: Unauthorized access to personal data stored by third parties (e.g., online services,
financial institutions).
• Impact: Exposure of personal information, leading to identity theft and financial loss.
Weak Passwords:
• Description: Using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks can expose personal data to interception by
cybercriminals.
• Impact: Data interception and unauthorized access to personal accounts and information.
3.4.2. Organization Level
Organizations face a range of threats that can disrupt operations, compromise sensitive information, and
lead to significant financial and reputational damage.
Insider Threats:
Ransomware:
• Description: A type of malware that encrypts organizational data, demanding a ransom for
decryption.
• Impact: Operational disruption, financial loss due to ransom payments, and potential data loss if
backups are inadequate.
• Description: Prolonged and targeted cyberattacks aimed at stealing data or compromising critical
infrastructure.
• Impact: Long-term data theft, espionage, and significant financial and reputational impact.
Data Breaches:
• Description: Targeted attacks where employees are tricked into revealing sensitive information or
credentials.
• Impact: Compromised accounts, unauthorized access to corporate data, and financial fraud.
Third-Party Risks:
• Description: Theft or tampering of physical assets, such as servers, laptops, or backup media.
• Impact: Data loss, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and operational disruptions.
Regulatory Non-Compliance:
• Description: Back up important data regularly to protect against data loss due to mal ware or
hardware failure.
• Deployment: Use cloud storage services or external hard drives to periodically back up data. Make
sure backups are encrypted to protect data.
• Description: Use antivirus and security software to protect against malware and cyberattacks.
• Deploy: Install and regularly update security software to detect and prevent the latest threats.
• Description: Protect personal devices such as phones, tablets, and computers from unauthorized
access.
• Deploy: Use a screen lock, PIN, or biometric identification to protect your device. Enable the "Find
My Device" feature to remotely track and erase data if lost.
• Description: Raise awareness about cyber security threats and how to prevent them.
• Implementation: Take online courses or read cybersecurity documents to understand personal data
protection measures.
Data encrypt:
• Description: Assess and manage risks associated with third-party vendors and services.
• Implementation: Perform security audits of vendors, require compliance with security standards, and
continuously monitor third-party access to sensitive data.
• Description: Develop and maintain incident response plans to effectively handle security incidents.
• Implementation: Develop a detailed incident response plan, conduct regular drills, and establish an
incident response team to quickly handle emergency situations.
• Description: Access to accurate and timely data enables businesses to make informed decisions.
• Impact: Data-driven decisions reduce uncertainties, improve resource allocation, and enhance
overall efficiency. For example, real-time inventory data helps optimize stock levels and reduce
costs.
Process Optimization:
• Impact: Streamlining operations based on data insights leads to cost savings, faster turnaround times,
and improved productivity. For instance, analyzing production data can highlight areas for
automation or process reengineering.
• Description: Data and information improve visibility and coordination across the supply chain.
• Impact: Better demand forecasting, inventory management, and supplier relationships result in
reduced lead times, lower inventory costs, and minimized disruptions.
3.6.2. Competitive Advantage
• Description: Data analysis provides insights into market trends, customer preferences, and
competitive dynamics.
• Impact: Businesses can anticipate market changes, adapt strategies accordingly, and stay ahead of
competitors. For example, analyzing sales data reveals customer buying patterns, informing
marketing and product development strategies.
• Description: Data allows businesses to personalize interactions and tailor offerings to individual
customer needs.
• Impact: Enhanced customer experiences lead to increased satisfaction, loyalty, and retention.
Personalized marketing campaigns based on customer data can significantly boost engagement and
conversion rates.
• Description: Data-driven insights fuel innovation and the development of new products and services.
• Impact: Understanding customer needs and market gaps enables businesses to create relevant and
competitive offerings. For instance, analyzing customer feedback and usage data guides product
enhancements and new feature development.
• Impact: Identifying areas for improvement based on customer feedback and service data leads to
higher satisfaction levels. For example, analyzing customer support interactions can highlight
common issues and training needs for staff.
• Description: Predictive analytics enable businesses to anticipate and address customer issues before
they escalate.
• Impact: Proactive support reduces customer frustration and enhances loyalty. Predictive
maintenance data for products can help schedule timely service, minimizing downtime for
customers.
Enhanced Customer Understanding:
• Description: Data provides a deeper understanding of customer behaviors, preferences, and needs.
• Impact: Businesses can develop targeted marketing strategies, personalized communications, and
customized product offerings. For instance, customer segmentation based on purchasing data allows
for more effective marketing campaigns.
• Description: Data analysis fosters innovation by revealing new opportunities and insights.
• Impact: Companies can develop new products, services, and business models that meet emerging
customer needs and market demands. Data-driven R&D efforts can lead to breakthrough innovations
and competitive differentiation.
• Description: Data supports strategic planning by providing accurate forecasts and scenario analysis.
• Impact: Better strategic decisions based on data insights lead to sustainable growth and long-term
success. For example, financial forecasting based on historical data helps in budgeting and resource
planning.
Risk Management:
• Impact: Proactive risk management based on data insights reduces potential losses and enhances
business resilience. Analyzing historical data helps in predicting and preparing for future risks, such
as market fluctuations or supply chain disruptions.
IV. Evaluate the wider implications of using data and information to support business processes in
an identified organisation.
4.1. How to use tools and techniques to process data and information in organisations.
Data Storage (Data Storage)
a. SQL database
Popular tools: MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle Database, Microsoft SQL Server.
Storage technique: Data is stored as a table with rows and columns. SQL (Structured Query Language) is
used to manage and query data.
b. NoSQL database
Storage technique: Data is stored as documents, key value pairs, or graphs. NoSQL is suitable for
unstructured or flexibly structured data.
• Disadvantages: Supports complex queries less than SQL, may lack data integrity.
c. Data Warehouse
Storage techniques: A data warehouse is a system that stores and manages data from many different sources,
often used for analysis and reporting.
• Advantages: Optimized for big data analysis, supports fast queries, stores historical data.
Analytical techniques: Apply machine learning algorithms such as decision trees, neural networks, and deep
learning to predict and classify data.
Analytical techniques: Create intuitive reports and dashboards from data to support decision making.
Human-Generated Data
• Sources: Surveys, interviews, social media interactions, manual data entry, observations, and expert
evaluations.
• Characteristics: Often qualitative, subjective, and context-rich. It can include opinions, feedback,
annotations, and interpretations.
• Challenges: Prone to biases, inconsistencies, and errors. Requires significant time and effort to
collect and process.
Machine-Generated Data
Sources: Sensors, IoT devices, logs, transaction records, automated systems, and web scraping.
• Enhanced Data Quality: Machine-generated data provides high volume and consistency, while
human data adds depth, context, and insights.
• Improved Decision-Making: Combining the objectivity of machine data with the contextual
understanding of human data leads to more informed and nuanced decisions.
• Comprehensive Insights: The integration allows for a more comprehensive view, capturing both
quantitative trends and qualitative nuances.
• ETL Tools: Extract, Transform, Load tools like Talend, Apache Nifi, and Informatica can handle
diverse data sources, enabling the integration of human and machine-generated data.
• Data Warehouses and Lakes: Platforms like Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery, and Azure Data
Lake store integrated data, supporting analysis and reporting.
• Data Cleaning: Tools like OpenRefine and Trifacta can clean and harmonize data from different
sources, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
• Data Annotation: Human-annotated data can improve machine learning models. Tools like Labelbox
and Amazon SageMaker Ground Truth facilitate this process.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP techniques can extract insights from textual human data,
integrating it with numerical machine data. Tools like NLTK, spaCy, and IBM Watson NLP are
useful here.
• Hybrid Models: Combining human expertise with machine learning models can enhance predictive
accuracy. For instance, combining expert annotations with automated image recognition.
• Feedback Loops: Human feedback on machine predictions can refine and improve machine learning
models over time.
• Identify Data Sources: Determine relevant human and machine-generated data sources within your
organization.
• Ensure Data Quality: Implement data cleaning and validation processes to ensure the accuracy and
reliability of both data types.
• Choose the Right Tools: Select appropriate tools and platforms for data integration, processing, and
analysis.
• Integrate Data: Use ETL processes to integrate data from different sources into a central repository.
• Analyze and Interpret: Apply analytical techniques and machine learning models to the integrated
data, incorporating human expertise and contextual knowledge.
• Visualize Insights: Create visualizations and dashboards to present integrated insights clearly and
effectively.
• Iterate and Improve: Continuously refine the integration process based on feedback and evolving
data needs.
4.3. Positive Implications
Walmart leverages big data and analytics to make informed decisions across various aspects of its
operations. By analyzing vast amounts of sales data, customer behavior, and market trends, Walmart can
make strategic decisions about inventory management, pricing, and product placements. This data-driven
approach allows the company to anticipate demand, reduce overstock and stockouts, and tailor its offerings
to customer preferences.
Impact:
The ability to make data-driven decisions enhances Walmart's competitiveness by ensuring that the right
products are available at the right time, optimizing supply chain operations, and ultimately leading to higher
customer satisfaction and increased sales.
Walmart uses data to streamline its supply chain and improve operational efficiency. The company employs
sophisticated algorithms to forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and optimize logistics. Real -time
data on sales and inventory levels enables Walmart to automate reordering processes and reduce lead times.
Impact:
Enhanced operational efficiency reduces costs, minimizes waste, and improves service levels. By
optimizing inventory management and logistics, Walmart can maintain lower prices for customers while
maintaining profitability.
Walmart collects and analyzes customer data to create personalized marketing campaigns. By understanding
customer preferences, shopping habits, and demographics, Walmart can deliver targeted promotions and
product recommendations through various channels, including email, mobile apps, and in-store experiences.
Impact:
Targeted marketing increases the effectiveness of promotional efforts, leading to higher conversion rates
and customer loyalty. Personalized customer engagement enhances the shopping experi ence and fosters a
stronger connection between Walmart and its customers.
Walmart uses data analytics to assess and mitigate risks. Predictive models help identify potential s upply
chain disruptions, market fluctuations, and other risks. By analyzing historical data and current trends,
Walmart can proactively address issues before they escalate.
Impact:
Effective risk management reduces the likelihood of significant disruptions and financial losses. It ensures
business continuity and stability, contributing to Walmart's resilience in a competitive and volatile market.
Data analytics provides Walmart with insights that drive innovation. By analyzing consumer behavior and
market trends, Walmart can identify opportunities for new products, services, and business models. Data -
driven insights also guide the development of innovative technologies, such as automated checkout systems
and AI-powered customer service.
Impact:
Innovation keeps Walmart at the forefront of the retail industry, enabling it to offer unique value
propositions to customers. Embracing new opportunities driven by data insights ensures sustained growth
and market relevance.
Walmart prioritizes data privacy and security to protect customer information. Implementing robust data
protection measures and complying with regulations such as GDPR ensures that customer data is handled
responsibly and securely.
Impact:
Maintaining high standards of data privacy and security builds trust with customers. It mitigates the risk of
data criticism and legal penalties, safeguarding Walmart's reputation and customer relationships.
4.3.7. Organizational Culture and Change Management
Fostering a Data-Driven Culture:
Walmart promotes a culture of data-driven decision-making across the organization. Training programs and
initiatives encourage employees at all levels to leverage data in their daily activities. Change management
strategies ensure that the transition to a data-centric approach is smooth and embraced by the workforce.
Impact:
A data-driven culture enhances overall organizational performance and agility. It empowers employees to
make informed decisions, fosters innovation, and supports continuous improvement. Effective change
management ensures that the organization adapts to evolving data technologies and methodologies.
Walmart, like many large organizations, faces the challenge of data overload. With the immense volume of
data collected from sales transactions, customer feedback, social media interactions, and supply chain
logistics, the company can experience difficulties in sifting through and prioritizing relevant information.
This overwhelming amount of data can lead to analysis paralysis, where decision-makers are bogged down
by too many details, slowing down the decision-making process and potentially missing out on timely
opportunities. Over-reliance on data can also stifle creativity and intuitive problem-solving, as employees
might prefer data-driven decisions over innovative or out-of-the-box thinking.
Implementing and maintaining a robust data infrastructure is costly. Walmart's investments in advanced
analytics tools, cloud storage, cybersecurity measures, and skilled data professionals require significant
financial resources. These costs can strain the company's budget, particularly if the expected return on
investment is not immediately apparent. Furthermore, the continuous need for upgrades and maintenance of
data systems can divert funds from other crucial areas of the business, potentially impacting overall financial
health and strategic initiatives.
Handling large volumes of customer data inevitably raises privacy and security concerns. Despite stringent
security measures, the risk of data breaches remains a significant threat. If Walmart experiences a data
breach, it can lead to severe consequences, including loss of customer trust, legal penalties, and financial
losses. Ensuring compliance with various data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR), adds complexity and cost to data management practices. The fear of potential data
breaches might also make customers hesitant to share personal information, affecting the quality and
completeness of the data Walmart collects.
Resistance to Change
Introducing data-driven approaches and technologies can face resistance from employees accustomed to
traditional ways of working. Change management becomes a critical issue, as employees might resist
adopting new systems and processes, fearing job displacement or increased workloads. This resistance can
hinder the successful implementation of data initiatives and slow down the transition to a data -centric
culture. Effective change management strategies are essential to address these concerns and ensure smooth
integration of data-driven practices.
The use of data analytics raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding data bias and fairness. Algorithms
and predictive models used by Walmart might inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the data, leading
to unfair treatment of certain customer segments or employees. For example, biased data can result in
discriminatory pricing strategies or biased hiring practices. Addressing these ethical concerns requires
ongoing monitoring, transparency, and efforts to ensure that data analytics practices are fair and unbiased.
Dependency on Technology
Walmart's reliance on advanced data analytics and technology creates a dependency that can b e risky.
Technical failures, system outages, or cybersecurity incidents can disrupt operations and affect the
company's ability to make informed decisions. Over-dependence on technology also makes the company
vulnerable to rapid technological changes, requiring continuous investment in new tools and systems to stay
competitive. This dependency can also create a skills gap, where employees need constant training and
upskilling to effectively use the latest data technologies.
V.Conclusion.
In conclusion, the journey at ABC Manufacturing has illuminated the profound impact that data and
information can have on driving operational excellence and innovation. By embracing a data -centric
approach, we have positioned ourselves at the forefront of the manufacturing industry, capable of
anticipating market shifts and adapting with precision. Our ability to forecast demand accurately and
mitigate risks through robust analytics ensures that we remain agile and resilient in the face of global
challenges.
The commitment to leveraging data extends beyond mere efficiency gains; it translates into tangible benefits
such as optimized resource utilization, cost savings, and enhanced customer satisfaction. As we continue to
harness the transformative power of data, ABC Manufacturing stands as a testament to the potential of
informed decision-making in shaping a successful and sustainable future.
Moving forward, our focus will remain on refining our data strategies to further enhance our supply chain
operations, drive continuous improvement, and uphold our reputation as a leader in innovation and
efficiency. The insights gained and the strategies implemented will not only secure our competitive edge
but also pave the way for new opportunities and sustained growth in the ever-evolving landscape of global
commerce.
VI. References
PowerBI + data excel : https://github.com/pbqa123/Power-bi.git
1.Rock Content. (2021). What Is Business Data And Why Is It Important For Companies? [online] Available
at: https://rockcontent.com/blog/business-data/.
2. Study.com. (2019). What is Internal Data? - Definition & Sources - Video & Lesson Transcript |
Study.com. [online] Available at: https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-internal-data-definition-
sources.html.
4. Anon, (2019). 7 Important Big Data Tools for Data Processing - Techiexpert.com. [online] Available at:
https://www.techiexpert.com/7-important-big-data-tools-for-data-processing/.