My time at the #SHRM18 conference in June included a quick demo on Microsoft’s Data Analytics platform. The timing was perfect as I am starting an online class on HR data analytics next week. At Adelphi University, where I teach graduate HR classes, we are diving into the Data Analytics world heavily. Especially in our HR area of the MBA program.
We have done some research with our recent graduates and discerned this is an area needing coursework and expertise. The problem is that all of us teaching in HR did not grow up with analytics in our vocabulary. So this is truly a learning experience for the professors as well.
The Microsoft Data Analytics platform is truly interesting. My concern was scaling software to meet small business needs. This has been a void in the HR software space in the past. Well pleasant surprise. Microsoft does cater to large scale data warehousing and ERP environments, however they also cater to small business too.
For those not in the know:
There software enables you to make informed decisions quickly with an easy to use front end. It also allows you to connect and explore your data with visual reports that you can collaborate, publish, and share. There software integrates with other tools, including Microsoft Excel, so you can get up to speed quickly and work seamlessly with your existing data files.
There is even a free version to get started with and a low cost solution for small businesses on a monthly subscription based. I’m talking a few dollars a month.
Of course it has a dashboard and it can be accessed on your phone or tablet. Most of us use Microsoft programs (Excel and Access) for simple data collection and manipulation. This software enables you to manipulate the information to a whole different level and allows you to make fact based decisions within your business.
As a novice I am going to troll around on the free software when I am done with taking my class.
I’m a fan of Microsoft, and have stayed with their products over the years (PC, Phone, Software) as I am most comfortable with the way they sync with each other and allow for ease of use for the non-techie…
I’ll be back to revisit this conversation in the fall and let you know how the class went. In the mean time if you are in HR you need to get on the analytics band wagon…
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