Balancing needs and exceptations across your team

People who hold a stake in the outcome of a data analysis project are called stakeholders. In what ways do they hold a stake in the outcome?

A. They implement the solution to the analysis problem.

B. They present to the team about what the data reveals.

C. They collect and clean the data being used for analysis.

D. They invest time and resources into the project.

The correct answer is D. They invest time and resources into the project. Explain: Stakeholders are people who invest time and resources into a project.

Focus on what matters

A data analyst at a delivery company is working on a logistics project. The goal is to use data to create more efficient routes so trucks travel fewer miles on the road when delivering parcels to customers. Who is the primary stakeholder most likely to be?

A. The customer

B. The data analyst

C. The vice president of logistics

D. The lead delivery truck driver

The correct answer is C. The vice president of logistics.

Balancing expectations and realistic project goals

When starting a new data analysis project, setting expectations for a realistic timeline might involve which of the following? Select all that apply.

• Sharing a high-level schedule with stakeholders so they can plan accordingly
• Creating a schedule with project phases and their approximate start dates
• Communicating clearly with the project manager and other team members
• Assuring stakeholders that you’ll have the project done right away

Explain: Setting expectations for a realistic timeline might involve sharing a high-level schedule with stakeholders, creating a schedule, and communicating clearly with team members.

The data tradeoff: Speed versus accuracy

A data analyst reframes a question. Then, they outline the problem, challenges, potential solutions, and timeframe. This is done to achieve what goals? Select all that apply.

• Provide reports immediately to keep stakeholders happy
• Put the data in context, and find the story it’s telling
• Balance speed with accuracy
• Communicate expectations so stakeholders understand how long it will take to provide accurate information

Explain: A data analyst would use these techniques in order to put data into context, balance speed with accuracy, and keep stakeholders informed.

Meeting best practices

When you’re leading a meeting, what are some ways to make sure all participants have a positive experience? Select all that apply.

• Demonstrate strong leadership skills by doing most of the talking.
• Take notes on what’s discussed during the meeting.
• Test out any technology you plan to use ahead of time to make sure it’s working properly.
• Prepare notes, a presentation, and an agenda to share with attendees.

Explain: When leading a meeting, testing out technology, taking notes and preparing supporting materials will help you ensure all participants have a positive experience.

From conflict to collaboration

To shift a situation from problematic to productive, data analysts can reframe a problem and start a constructive conversation. Which of the following statements are effective for doing that? Select all that apply.

• I’d like to help you reach your goal. Let’s discuss how I can do that.
• There may be some other important things I should consider. I’m going to look into that.
• It’s important for you to know that this problem was not my fault.
• I would be happy to do this project. I will consider the necessary steps and get back to you soon with a time estimate.

Explain: Asking questions such as these will give everyone the chance to share their viewpoints in a productive manner. This leads to a more successful project.