Data analytics ensures that companies can gain a competitive edge and investment in this field is important if companies want to remain relevant and profitable.

The article gave a great insight into the development of data analytics, with the emphasis on predictive analytical tools and taking into account many data sources business can utilise data to develop strategy. The role of the traditional accountant will inevitably evolve into data "engineer" type roles but it is important to understand the source of the data and how it can effect the business. Highly dependent upon skills training and staff development.

Data analytics is being widely used in the tax area too. I have see first hand how programs are being used to identify opportunities where tax has not been claimed or areas where compliance needs to be improved. The tax authorities are also using tools to carry out audits which is saving them time and pin pointing areas where there is tax leakage.

Analytics skills are more and more important. Data analytics includes not only descriptive analysis but also predictive and prescriptive analysis. However, it is hard to do predictive and prescriptive analysis well. I also need improve my skills.
As author says, good technical skills, understanding of the business context and analytical mindset are necessary factors to be an ideal "analytically skilled" employee. I think I have already understood the data and knew how to manipulate it. I also possess an inquiring nature and intellectual curiosity. The most lacking is understanding of the business context. In other words, I do not know enough about the business. It will be my direction to improve my understanding of the business context.