For businesses to thrive in a fast-moving marketplace it is key that they are adept at turning raw data into valuable insights. A 2023 report estimated that 73,000 exabytes of data were produced by businesses globally that year, with only 10% of data categorized as structured. The remaining 90% of data were unstructured data sources like emails, images and business records requiring organization.
Data scientists, data analysts and business leaders need reliable access to the insights found in this data for their work. The role of the business intelligence developer is to design solutions for data research and visualization. Let’s dig deeper into what a business intelligence developer is and how you can make this your career.
Business intelligence developers translate real-world business requirements of their clients or employers into well-designed technical solutions. They work with data engineers to meet these requirements from the data source to the end user. Business intelligence tools created by developers may include:
Developers create documentation for their customized solutions for easier adoption by end users. They monitor reports on their work and troubleshoot errors or coding issues as they emerge. Ongoing collaboration with data analysts and data scientists identifies new uses for data sources and methods for improving user experiences.
The work done by business intelligence developers reinforces good data practices in their workplaces. A 2024 BARC report identified the most important data management trends in the global market. Developers keep their organizations ahead of trends in areas like:
Business intelligence projects by major corporations help explain what a developer does. Their work can decrease costs, increase insights and improve outlooks for their employers. We can look at Univision and Delta Airlines for examples of how data-driven decisions support business goals.
Spanish-language broadcaster Univision wanted to convert search and social media data into insights for its programmatic advertising initiative. By harnessing this information, they were able to more intelligently target digital ads to users based on their interests and who were more likely to engage with the brand. This approach increased Univision’s ad yield by 80% in the first quarter after its implementation.
Delta Airlines generates substantial amounts of data through surveys and customer interactions. Performance monitoring dashboards with sentiment analysis support exceptional service by flight attendants and customer service representatives. The airline reported a 20% increase in first call resolution due to newly implemented business intelligence solutions.
The business intelligence industry is expected to grow substantially in the short term, driving demand for developers. A 2024 market analysis estimated that the global market for business intelligence software will grow from $35.8 billion to $112.4 billion by 2032. Increased availability of cloud-based solutions and greater adoption of business intelligence concepts by small businesses will create new opportunities for developers.
Greater demand for business intelligence solutions should translate into above-average salaries for developers. The U.S. Department of Labor identified a median salary of $108,020 for data scientists, a category that includes business intelligence professionals. This salary places well above the $48,060 median salary for all occupations because of the advanced skills needed by analysts and developers.
Business intelligence developers need strong technical skills to make data accessible for users. A core skill for developers is SQL proficiency because structured queries are essential to the Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) components of business intelligence. Additional technical knowledge for successful developers includes:
A great deal of planning and collaboration is involved in creating business intelligence solutions. Developers need to be effective communicators who can explain technology and data to different stakeholders. They also need to be practical problem solvers and analysts who can develop solutions at the pace of new technology.
A good starting point for a career in business intelligence development is a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Developers may hold undergraduate degrees in computer science or information technology. It is also possible to build acumen through a business program focusing on data analytics or business intelligence.
Entry-level positions in the profession may focus on front-end or back-end development for one business function. With experience, developers may move into team lead and development management roles with greater responsibilities. Senior developers may seek out executive positions or start consulting businesses.
Educational expectations for business intelligence professionals will only grow with time. A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from a reputable program anticipates future needs while preparing you for data leadership roles. Marymount University offers an innovative degree for those who want to lead and innovate in business intelligence.
Marymount University’s Online DBA in Business Intelligence prepares experienced business professionals for data-driven roles. Well-qualified program applicants hold MBAs or master’s degrees from accredited universities in business or technology disciplines. This 100% virtual program can be completed in less than three years of study.
The Online DBA curriculum was built on the pillars of business, innovation, leadership and technology (BILT). Experienced faculty work with candidates on applied dissertation research within their areas of expertise. This research happens at the same time as coursework covering topics like:
Marymount University’s reputation for academic excellence, as confirmed by U.S. News & World Report, helps graduates in the job market. Aspiring business intelligence leaders benefit from Marymount University’s proximity to decision-makers in Washington, D.C. The Online DBA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Become an expert in business intelligence with an Online DBA from Marymount University.
Successful organizations rely on quality data to make day-to-day and long-term decisions. Not all data sets are created equally and poor processes can lead to wasted resources. Three-quarters of respondents to a Forrester Consulting survey reported data volume increases over three years, while 42% reported no change or decreases in data quality.
Data quality analysts create processes and standards for getting the most out of their data. Their work makes it possible for organizations to stay competitive in a fast-moving marketplace. They also solve data quality problems that cost large organizations an average of $12.9 million annually. These factors contribute to a strong career outlook for specialists who know data quality tools and standards.
Businesses, governments and non-profits increasingly rely on data for more efficient and effective decision-making. Data analysts are responsible for turning data sets into actionable insights related to new products, budgets and investments. These insights aren’t possible without the work done by data quality analysts.
The mission of every data quality analyst is to minimize poor quality data from advancing beyond their team. Analysts deploy specialized software or design their own data quality tools for turning raw data into reliable resources. Common data quality problems faced by organizations of all sizes include:
Data quality analysts can use SQL, Python assert statements or R Assertr to validate data consistency. Automation tools on the market make it possible to profile massive amounts of data. Quality analysts adapt their solutions based on data types and organizational needs.
Data quality analysts conduct root cause analyses to prevent data-related problems from happening in the future. This analysis extends beyond symptoms to the human or technical sources of quality issues. Organizations use the results of these analyses and the following six dimensions of data quality to set standards:
A case study involving the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) shows why the work done by data quality analysts is so essential. FMCSA introduced a data quality framework to align results of state inspections of commercial trucks and buses with federal data. This framework includes monthly grades of state data quality and a new tool for reporting incomplete data. These data quality tools produce reliable and timely information for safer roadways across the country.
There isn’t reliable data on job growth or salary for data quality analysts, but we can use data-related professionals for a broader outlook. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth in the following data-centric jobs far above the 5% growth expected for all occupations by 2031:
The continued growth in organizational reliance on data-driven insights means future opportunities for data quality analysts. These opportunities will likely take place in industries heavily reliant on data including finance, health care, information technology and manufacturing.
Robert Half’s 2025 Salary Guide provides insights into salary ranges for tech-related fields. The guide found a salary range of $93,250 to $134,250 for data analysts working for technology companies. Data analysts and data quality analysts have different roles but significantly overlap their skillsets. Data quality analysts can expect starting salaries below this range from entry-level positions and roles with government agencies or nonprofits.
The ideal candidates to become data quality analysts are natural problem-solvers interested in evolving their technical skills throughout their careers. Professionals familiar with Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) tools, SQL, spreadsheets and statistical analysis are well-poised for success in the field. These attributes and skills are developed in undergraduate programs in computer science, statistics and information management.
Recent graduates build their resumes with junior roles in data validation and data cleansing. Early-career data quality analysts may work with experienced analysts to improve their skills and prepare for more advanced roles. Graduate degrees in business or technology prepare mid-career professionals for promotions into managerial or senior leadership roles.
You may want to fast-track your career progression as you enter into a data quality analyst role. A professional doctoral program in a relevant field can provide the interdisciplinary education to succeed in analyst roles and advance your career. Marymount University’s Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence builds the skills necessary for your next career step.
The Online DBA in Business Intelligence prepares skilled professionals to lead innovation in the workplace. The program can be completed in less than three years of 100% online study. Online DBA candidates work with peers nationwide who have also earned master’s degrees in business or technology disciplines.
This innovative program focuses on applied business research with dissertation work starting from the first semester. Experienced faculty train DBA candidates to be strategic thinkers and change agents by connecting coursework to real-world situations. The Online DBA curriculum includes courses on topics like:
Every program graduate leaves with a dissertation, a network of fellow graduates, and a reputable university degree. Marymount University was named in U.S. News & World Report’s National Universities ranking for 2025. The university is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Learn more about how the Online DBA in Business Intelligence can boost your career.
The business landscape is evolving and becoming increasingly unpredictable. Digital acceleration, remote work, geopolitical uncertainty, a volatile financial market and other factors leave us wondering what’s next. Despite these fluctuating circumstances, there’s one guarantee for the future of business — organizations need leaders with business intelligence (BI) skills who can make data-driven decisions.
An online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence prepares you to meet today’s challenges with ethical leadership skills, actionable research and highly personalized coursework related to your specific career goals. But practically speaking, why get a DBA? Simply put, the benefits of a DBA can prepare you for success in today’s business environment.
Business intelligence is a discipline made up of many components. Organizations employ BI and analytics to create a holistic view of business data to communicate between teams, identify and eliminate operational inefficiencies, develop products and services faster and drive organizational change.
Professionals working in the field of BI perform several important tasks that provide their companies with actionable insights, including the following:
Technology is always evolving, and BI’s role in the workspace will continue to grow. The increasing prevalence of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) is providing organizations with increasingly large amounts of data. Additionally, the evolution of BI tools will allow BI to integrate even more smoothly into a company’s business strategies. BI will be increasingly critical to an organization’s ability to maintain a competitive advantage.
Those equipped with a DBA in business intelligence will be able to rely on the knowledge and skills acquired in their degree programs to adapt to these changes with their own business intelligence strategies.
Many professionals interested in business analytics pursue a DBA degree. A DBA degree is a postgraduate doctoral program designed for business professionals with experience in their industry. It’s often the next step for those with a master’s degree in a business-related program. A DBA in Business Analytics exists at the intersection of technology and business; it produces ethical business leaders with hard skills related to data analytics, cloud computing, AI and other relevant skills related to the latest technologies and methodologies.
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A DBA and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business are the highest credentials in business education. Both grant students doctoral degrees that allow them to engage in advanced study, examinations and research projects involving business administration. However, a comparison of a DBA vs. PhD in Business reveals different academic and career goals.
A DBA is a professional degree that teaches students how to transfer theoretical knowledge to a real-world business setting. Students enrolled in a DBA intend to do the following:
A PhD in Business is a theoretical research degree that allows students to develop original research related to business theory and models. Students enrolled in a PhD in Business intend to do the following:
There are many benefits of a DBA, including increased career options and financial rewards. Perhaps most importantly, DBA graduates can transform into ethical, conscious and influential leaders with practical skills to create a better world.
Whether a graduate improves health care outcomes, measures climate change efforts or becomes a key decision-maker in local government, a DBA in Business Intelligence opens a wealth of opportunities.
We identified seven reasons why getting a DBA is worth it for business professionals to build skills, enhance career opportunities and influence the future of business.
The world is changing, and the job market requires new skills. In the United States, there’s a high demand for professionals with skills in business intelligence and data analytics. Over the past few years, business intelligence has matured enough to make leaders with solid BI skills an important commodity.
Because the C-suite has been slow to adapt to these skills, those who develop these competencies can stand out as forward-thinking business leaders. In addition to AI, data science and machine language skills, students enrolled in a DBA in Business Intelligence learn the following business intelligence processes:
Data-driven decision-making is the fuel that runs successful and efficient organizations. As a result, companies are doubling down on data analytics and increasingly investing in business intelligence. This trend shows no signs of stopping: the global market for big data and analytics (BDA) had a valuation of $225.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to hit $665.7 billion by 2033. The same sources show that the banking, manufacturing and professional services industries are making the most significant investments in BDA solutions.
Students enrolled in a DBA in Business Intelligence use BI tools to solve problems and direct organizational decisions. The practical coursework teaches DBA graduates how to do the following:
From a career standpoint, there are several reasons to get a DBA. Mid- to senior-level business professionals working full time may pursue a DBA degree to progress into C-suite leadership roles. An online DBA prepares students for leadership roles across many favored industries, including professional, scientific and technical services; government; manufacturing; and health care and social assistance.
According to Indeed, some of the career paths DBA holders pursue include the following:
The most tangible return on investment (ROI) for DBA students is increased earning potential. DBA graduates may advance in their careers and work as CEOs, senior business analysts and other top leadership roles. As of May 2023, the median annual wage for top executives in the United States was $206,680. In addition to C-suite roles, a DBA can lead to other well-paying jobs that allow individuals to use their BI knowledge and leadership skills to influence business. The following common career paths for DBA graduates demonstrate the possible DBA degree salary range:
Business leaders with experience and skills related to business intelligence can redefine their organizational strategy to prepare for the “What’s Next Economy.” Leaders with BI knowledge can inspire organizational change by determining key performance indicators (KPIs) for success, enhancing cross-team collaboration, better managing risk and compliance, launching effective marketing campaigns and forecasting trends. These actions deliver a more profitable, efficient and intelligent business model.
In addition to enhancing operational efficiency, business leaders with BI skills are more conscious and ethical leaders. In an era of digital technology and regulation, ethics in data are top of mind. Organizations are under pressure to comply with new regulations and protect data. A DBA in BI helps leaders to do the following:
One of the unique benefits of earning a DBA online is the opportunity it provides for students to meet professionals who live in other parts of the world and bring different perspectives to their work and studies. Additionally, students can connect with and learn from expert faculty with experience and wisdom to share.
In addition to hard skills like business intelligence and research, an online DBA program helps professionals further grow their soft skills like communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills. By developing relationships with faculty and colleagues across a range of industries, locations and career goals, DBA students increase their ability to collaborate and have productive discussions with others for the sake of business growth.
A final consideration is why to get a DBA from an online program. One of the greatest benefits of an online DBA program is that it has entirely digital, flexible coursework. Just as many working professionals today want to have agency in their working location and hours — perhaps choosing to work in the office some days and at home for others, or opting for entirely remote positions — the same can be said for the desire to study when and where it’s best for the student.
As the digital world continues to grow as a home for much of the work, innovation and growth that takes place in today’s marketplace, it only follows that opportunities for developing as a professional, like pursuing a business administration degree, would do the same. A fully online, part-time degree that accommodates the personal and professional demands of a student’s life also fits well with the interdisciplinary, integrated approach taken in a DBA program.
Rather than making students stop working, the online model empowers students to integrate the leadership, business intelligence and innovation skills they are gaining through their coursework directly into their present positions, which can also lead to career advancement. The online model enables working professionals to advance their professional opportunities and develop as well-rounded business leaders without putting their careers on hold.
Are you a highly motivated and passionate business leader interested in data, actionable insights and decision-making? Do you enjoy applying statistics and historical records to real-world challenges? Do you aspire to become an influential thought leader in your industry?
If so, consider the online DBA in Business Intelligence program at Marymount University. Business intelligence expertise can position you as a leader in the modern marketplace. Our program teaches you to identify and act on opportunities to leverage data to inform decisions. With a personalized curriculum, you’ll engage in actionable research, developing strategies to navigate the changing economy and make decisions based on relevant data. In less than three years, you can graduate from our 100% online program. When you do, you’ll be fully equipped to lead at the intersection of business and technology, no matter what comes next.
Prepare to lead and set digital strategy with a DBA in Business Intelligence.
Business intelligence (BI) consultants are in high demand. As more organizations recognize the value of data in informed decisions, the need for transforming raw data into actionable insights has surged. Keep reading to explore business intelligence consulting, what the role entails and the advantages of earning a Doctor of Business Administration in BI to advance your career.
BI analysis is among the fastest-growing jobs in the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment will rise by 23% between 2022 and 2032, almost eight times faster than average. Now is the ideal time for current and aspiring BI consultants to develop their expertise for career advancement.
BLS credits BI growth to two main factors. First, technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and data warehousing have streamlined data collection and analysis. At the same time, BI is increasingly affordable and applicable, thanks to self-service tools, cloud-based solutions and other analytical software developments.
Business intelligence can yield actionable insights for organizations looking to level up strategic decision-making.
Business intelligence consulting is the process of transforming data into actionable insights so an organization can solve a specific problem. Nearly every industry can benefit from it, from financial services to health care and manufacturing.
Business intelligence consulting drives data-driven decision-making, improving business outcomes. For example, it can drive operational efficiency, continuous improvement in marketing and more personalized customer experiences. By harnessing the power of data, organizations can use BI to achieve their goals more effectively and efficiently.
BI consultants help organizational leaders make informed decisions. The role requires technical and business acumen and involves collecting, analyzing and applying business data to create actionable insights.
BI consultants work in various settings. Many are independent contractors or work for a firm offering business intelligence consulting services. These external consulting roles may require frequent travel to meet with clients.
Specialization in the field is common. BI consultants may focus on a specific business function, such as operations, or an industry, such as health care.
The job responsibilities vary by workplace, specialization and project. Generally, BI consultants develop project strategy, analyze and report on data and provide strategic recommendations and refinements. Depending on their experience, they may also supervise colleagues responsible for these tasks.
BI initiatives begin with a needs assessment. The consultant works with the client to understand their problem and business objectives and uses this information to develop the project strategy.
The strategy outlines the approach, tools, processes and resources needed to transform data into actionable insights, describing the following:
By implementing a well-defined strategy, BI consultants deliver maximum value.
In the next phase, consultants create and report on actionable insights.
They identify and collect data relevant to the problem and analyze it to find patterns and outliers. Data analysis requires technical skills in database management, SQL and data warehousing.
Then, consultants create data visualizations. They use tools like Tableau, Microsoft PowerBI or Qlickview to create dashboards, charts, graphs and maps. These visualizations are incorporated into presentations and reports, which consultants use to explain the insights to clients.
Finally, BI consultants think creatively about the insights uncovered to develop data-driven solutions for addressing the problem. They may recommend new systems, procedures or other changes that align with business objectives. Consultants present these recommendations to organizational leaders.
BI consultants may also provide ongoing support after their recommendations are implemented. This can involve collecting feedback, planning for regular updates and enhancing the BI strategy for continuous improvement.
A career in business intelligence consulting takes advanced knowledge and skills in leadership, applied research and strategic planning. Consultants develop these competencies through a combination of education and work experiences.
There’s no set educational requirement for business intelligence consulting, but most jobs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degrees in business, mathematics, engineering and computer science are common among BI consultants.
Some employers prefer consulting candidates with at least a master’s degree. The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is the preferred degree, but earning a master’s degree in a business-related field can also prepare you for a career in business intelligence consulting.
Pursuing a doctorate in BI can expand your career opportunities. Less than 2% of U.S. adults have a doctorate, which is a terminal degree in any field. BI consultants who hold one can differentiate themselves in the workplace, qualify for advanced roles and increase their earning potential.
One option is the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Business Intelligence. The DBA is designed for those with an MBA or business-related master’s degree.
The DBA incorporates theoretical coursework with applied research, preparing candidates with the highest level of business education and practical expertise. DBA candidates build on their understanding of business, innovation, leadership and technology.
Among the reasons to earn a DBA, candidates grow their professional influence. They develop ethical leadership, higher-order thinking and research skills, allowing them to address today’s business challenges with knowledge, vision and clarity that will lead to groundbreaking insights.
Business intelligence consulting roles also require several years of work experience. Many consultants start as BI analysts, whose primary responsibilities are data analysis and reporting. They can take on more responsibility as they gain experience, moving from fundamental data analysis and support tasks to performing complex analysis, providing strategic insights and supervising others.
Developing technical and business acumen on the job and through post-graduate education opens doors to business intelligence consulting jobs. In addition to popular job boards, the following organizations publish BI consultant job postings:
A career in business intelligence consulting can be personally and professionally rewarding.
The median salary of all consultants is $99,410, with the highest 10% earning more than $172,280. Those who work for consulting firms typically earn a year-end bonus. Independent consultants are compensated directly by their clients on an hourly or project basis.
The industries with the highest employment of consultants pay a median salary as follows:
Due to the high demand for their expertise, BI consultants can command high earnings. Obtaining a doctorate in BI can further increase salary potential.
If you want to strengthen your understanding and application of data and technology, Marymount University’s online DBA in Business Intelligence could be right for you. It will position you as an agile leader at the forefront of an ever-changing economy through actionable insights that advance the field of business technology and its real-world applications.
Delivered 100% online, the online DBA in Business Intelligence program is designed for experienced professionals with an MBA or master’s degree in a business specialty field or IT. It allows candidates to balance their careers with the ability to study from anywhere.
Imagine the opportunities you could be missing in your business or leadership role. Harness the power of BI technology and tools to make decisions with advanced vision and clarity with a DBA in Business Intelligence from Marymount University Online.
A business intelligence strategy is essential to capturing, analyzing and converting data into valuable insights. Experienced leaders can better use data to achieve business goals with the skills learned in a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program.
By setting the parameters for data collecting and analysis according to a specific question or challenge, brands can increase their chances of gaining customer intelligence and actionable insights that address their specific situations.
As company leaders continue to navigate the work-from-home revolution, the need for executive leadership skills grows more important. Many professionals choose to develop these essential skills through a Doctorate of Business Administration degree program.
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