Data Analyst vs. Developer: What Are the Differences?

A data analyst and developer are two common positions in the field of information technology. Both roles require individuals to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. However, there are several key differences between these positions, including the type of work they do, the tools they use and the skills they need.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a data analyst and developer, and we provide additional information about these IT careers.

What is a Data Analyst?

Data Analysts collect, organize and study data to help a company understand its customers, operations and business. They use their findings to make recommendations about how the company can improve its products, services and policies. Data Analysts typically have a background in mathematics, statistics or computer science. They use their analytical skills to examine data sets, identify trends and develop graphs, charts and reports to present their findings. Data Analysts work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, marketing and manufacturing.

What is a Developer?

Developers create software programs that allow users to perform specific tasks on computers, mobile devices or other devices. They design, code, test, debug and document programs as well as train users on how to use the programs. Developers typically specialize in a specific type of software, such as applications, systems software or web development. They use programming languages and software development tools to create software that meets the specific needs of their clients or employers. Developers often work in teams with other developers, engineers, graphic designers and other professionals to create software applications.

Data Analyst vs. Developer

Here are the main differences between a data analyst and a developer.

Job Duties

Both data analysts and developers use their knowledge of computing, software languages and databases to help organizations improve. However, the duties they perform differ because of their different areas of expertise. For example, a data analyst might study customer purchasing habits by looking at aggregate data like demographic information, geographic locations and historical purchase records. Using this information, they can determine which products an organization should develop or redesign to attract more customers.

A developer’s job duties often involve creating new applications or revamping existing ones to improve user experience. This means that while a data analyst uses computers to analyze information, a developer uses computers to collect information. For example, a developer might build a website for prospective voters to register before election day.

Job Requirements

Data analysts typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics or another related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree to gain more advanced skills and knowledge. Data developers usually need a bachelor’s degree as well, but their focus is often on developing software applications, so they might study computer science or software engineering. Some data developers also have a background in web development.

Work Environment

Data analysts and developers typically work in different environments. Data analysts often work for companies or organizations that need help analyzing data to make decisions. They may work in an office setting, but they also travel to meet with clients and attend meetings.

Developers usually work in a coding environment where they can focus on their projects. Developers may work from home or in an office depending on the company’s needs.

Skills

Both data analysts and developers need to have strong analytical skills. Data analysts use their analytical skills to examine data sets, identify trends and develop insights that can help inform business decisions. Developers use their analytical skills to understand the needs of users and create software that meets those needs.

Both data analysts and developers need to be proficient in using various computer programs. Data analysts use programs like Excel and Tableau to manipulate data sets and create visualizations. Developers use programming languages like Java and Python to write code for applications.

Data analysts typically need to have strong communication skills. They use these skills to present their findings to clients or managers in a way that is easy to understand. Developers also need to have strong communication skills. They use these skills to collaborate with other developers on projects and to explain their code to non-technical staff members.

Salary

Data analysts can earn an average salary of $75,765 per year, while developers can earn an average salary of $91,880 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of company you work for, your level of experience and your location.