How a Data Analyst differs from a Data Scientist and other analysts

The field of analytics is not limited to a couple of specialties. There are several specializations, each aimed at solving specific problems and challenges through applied analysis.

Let’s look at five professions to see how they differ from each other.

  • A systems analyst is a specialist who develops software requirements. He helps to solve company problems and set up business processes. A systems analyst solves the problem of functionality implementation from the technical side and makes a task pool for developers.
  • A business analyst identifies the company’s problems and customer needs. Based on the findings, the business analyst decides which features should be integrated into the software in order to improve the final product.
  • The market analyst collects information about the market, customer behavior, and target audience. He uses the data he collects to adjust the company’s marketing strategy.
  • A data scientist collects information and then analyzes it. With the help of this knowledge he makes forecasts, identifies the probability of their implementation and obtains other valuable information that can be useful to the business.
  • The Product Analyst is a specialist who collects and analyzes data on customer behavior and their interaction with the product. As a result of the product analyst’s work, the company receives clear recommendations that help the business grow and develop.
  • It seems like these specialties are completely different. But if you look deeper, it turns out that they all require similar actions, knowledge, and skills. Once you have mastered one of the analytical professions, you can eventually change the field of work. For example, you can change from Data Analyst to Data Scientist.