Why data analytics and literacy are vital for organizations today
In today’s fast-changing IT landscape, data analytics has become the foundation of innovation, better business decision-making, and lasting enterprise growth. According to recent research, nearly two-thirds of employers are actively seeking to improve data management and analytics skills within their teams. If you want your business to thrive and future-proof your operations, prioritizing data literacy and analytics certification is essential.
In a CompTIA Enterprise webinar, with industry leader, Kathryn Kearney (Sr. Director, Databricks), we discussed how organizations can develop powerful data skills to stay ahead in today’s market.
What is data literacy?
Data literacy is the ability to read, analyze, and communicate with data for a variety of business applications—not just for IT teams, but across every department. Kathryn Kearney noted, “If you’re not leveraging your data, you’re missing critical opportunities to improve.” From understanding customer behaviors to driving business analytics, data skills help organizations make informed decisions.
Cory Althoff added, “It’s not just about having data analysis tools—decision-makers must know how to use those insights to act.” Upskilling team members at every level with strong data literacy bridges gaps and enables smarter, faster action.
Building a data-driven culture across your organization
Embedding a data-driven culture starts with leadership and permeates every department. Leaders must model data-driven decisions and advocate for continuous learning in data analytics and business intelligence. According to a Corndel research report, organizations prioritizing data literacy are 19 times more likely to outperform competitors in profitability.
Equipping employees with the right certifications, such as CompTIA’s Data+ or other certified data professional credentials, creates consistency and closes skill gaps across marketing, customer service, IT, and more. Althoff stated, “Data+ provides everyone—not just analysts—the foundation to contribute to a real data-driven culture.”
Overcoming barriers to data training and certification
Despite the proven benefits, some organizations struggle to launch or justify data training initiatives, often due to ROI concerns or misconceptions that certification is ‘just for IT’. Kearney shared, “Our data shows that certified users are more engaged and resourceful.” Demonstrating business value—like improved platform usage or data-driven project outcomes—helps secure ongoing investment in training.
“Not everyone needs to be a data engineer,” Kearney emphasized, “but data impacts every role—from system administrators to project managers.” Promoting a culture where all business units value data literacy is key.
Real-world benefits: from data certification to business results
Leaders shared practical examples: Databricks connects employee data certifications and training directly to higher customer engagement and loyalty. Other organizations see measurable boosts in innovation, efficiency, and employee empowerment linked to data skills.
According to Accenture, staff confident in their data literacy are 50% more likely to feel trusted to make higher-impact decisions. Althoff highlighted how platforms like Netflix and Spotify maximize user experience with advanced data analytics, showcasing the power of data-driven strategy in any organization.
How to start closing your organization’s data skills gaps
- Begin with foundational training and certifications like CompTIA Data+.
- Encourage leadership to embody and publicly support data-driven decision making.
- Foster continuous education for every employee—IT staff, business analysts, and non-technical roles alike.
- Use clear business metrics to demonstrate the value of upskilling investments.
- Choose industry-recognized data certification programs for proven results.
Frequently asked questions about data analytics and literacy in business
Q: What is the best data certification for a non-technical professional?
A: CompTIA Data+ was designed to bridge the gap for all business roles, from project managers to help desk staff.
Q: How can organizations measure ROI from data skills training?
A: By tying certifications and training to improvements in efficiency, customer satisfaction, or revenue metrics.
Ready to build a data-driven culture?
CompTIA Data+ certification empowers teams at every level to leverage analytics for better business outcomes.
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