Learn effective questioning techniques to make data-driven decisions while connecting with stakeholder needs.
Covers effective questioning techniques that help guide analysis, including SMART questions methodology. Focuses on data-driven decision-making and how data analysts present findings. Explores real-world business scenarios to develop questioning and decision-making skills. Introduces spreadsheets as essential tools for data analysts and covers structured thinking to better understand problems and develop solutions. Includes strategies for managing stakeholder expectations and team communication.
5 minutes
5 Questions
Ask Questions to Make Data-Driven Decisions is the second course in the Google Data Analytics Certificate program. This course focuses on developing the essential skill of asking effective questions to guide data analysis and support informed business decisions. The course teaches analysts how to frame problems correctly and identify what data is needed to solve them. Students learn about the difference between effective and ineffective questions, understanding that well-crafted questions lead to actionable insights while poorly formed questions can result in misleading conclusions. A key concept covered is SMART questions - questions that are Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework helps analysts structure their inquiries to gather meaningful information. The course also explores how to understand stakeholder needs and expectations. Analysts must communicate effectively with business leaders, team members, and clients to determine what problems need solving and what outcomes are desired. Students learn about different types of data and how to match the right data sources with specific business questions. The curriculum covers quantitative versus qualitative data, and when each type is most appropriate for answering particular questions. Additionally, the course introduces spreadsheet basics and fundamental functions that help analysts organize and begin exploring data. Students practice working with data in structured formats and learn how to use spreadsheets as tools for initial data examination. The importance of following a structured analytical process is emphasized throughout. By asking the right questions at the beginning of any project, analysts can ensure their work remains focused and delivers value to stakeholders. This foundational skill of questioning sets the stage for all subsequent analysis work in the data analytics process.Ask Questions to Make Data-Driven Decisions is the second course in the Google Data Analytics Certificate program. This course focuses on developing the essential skill of asking effective questions to guide data analysis and support informed business decisions. The course teaches analysts how to fā¦