What are the most common BI query challenges for small businesses?

2 Data security

Another challenge for BI queries is protecting the data from unauthorized access, modification, or disclosure. Data security is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, as well as complying with legal and ethical standards. Small businesses may face data security risks due to various factors, such as cyberattacks, human errors, malicious insiders, or inadequate policies and procedures. To address this challenge, small businesses need to implement data security measures, such as encrypting, backing up, and authenticating data, as well as restricting and logging user access and activities. They also need to educate and train their staff on data security best practices and policies.

3 Data complexity

Another challenge for BI queries is dealing with the complexity and diversity of data. Data complexity refers to the volume, variety, velocity, and veracity of data, which can affect the performance and usability of BI. Small businesses may face data complexity issues due to various factors, such as the growth of data sources, the emergence of new data types, the demand for real-time analysis, or the uncertainty of data quality. To address this challenge, small businesses need to implement data management and governance strategies, such as defining data models, schemas, and metadata, as well as establishing data standards, roles, and responsibilities. They also need to leverage data integration and transformation tools, such as ETL (extract, transform, load), to consolidate and prepare data for BI queries.

4 Query skills

Another challenge for BI queries is developing and maintaining the skills and knowledge required to query data effectively and efficiently. Query skills refer to the ability to formulate, execute, and interpret queries using various tools and languages, such as SQL (structured query language), BI software, or spreadsheets. Small businesses may face query skills gaps due to various factors, such as the lack of training, support, or resources, the turnover of staff, or the evolution of technologies. To address this challenge, small businesses need to invest in developing and enhancing their query skills, such as by providing training, mentoring, or coaching, as well as accessing online courses, tutorials, or communities. They also need to adopt user-friendly and intuitive query tools, such as natural language processing (NLP), which allows users to query data using plain language.

5 Query optimization

Another challenge for BI queries is optimizing the performance and efficiency of queries. Query optimization refers to the process of improving the speed, accuracy, and quality of queries by applying various techniques and methods, such as indexing, caching, partitioning, or tuning. Small businesses may face query optimization issues due to various factors, such as the complexity, size, or structure of data, the frequency or concurrency of queries, or the limitations of hardware or software. To address this challenge, small businesses need to apply query optimization best practices, such as designing and testing queries, analyzing and monitoring query execution plans, or using query optimization tools, such as query analyzers or optimizers.

6 Query value

Another challenge for BI queries is demonstrating and communicating the value and impact of queries. Query value refers to the relevance, usefulness, and actionability of queries for achieving business goals and solving business problems. Small businesses may face query value issues due to various factors, such as the lack of alignment, clarity, or feedback, the difficulty of measuring or reporting outcomes, or the resistance or inertia of change. To address this challenge, small businesses need to align their queries with their business strategy, objectives, and needs, as well as involve their stakeholders and users in the query process. They also need to communicate and present their query results effectively and persuasively, using visualizations, dashboards, or stories.