Information Analyst vs. Data Analyst: What Are the Differences?

Data analysts and information analysts are both in-demand roles in the business world. Though they share some similarities, there are several key differences between the two positions. If you’re interested in a career in data or information analysis, understanding the distinctions between these roles can help you choose the right path for you.

In this article, we discuss the differences between data analysts and information analysts, and we provide additional resources for those interested in pursuing a career in either field.

What is an Information Analyst?

Information Analysts collect, process and interpret data to support business decision-making. They develop databases and data management systems to store data more effectively. They also create data visualizations to help business leaders understand complex data sets. Information Analysts typically specialize in a particular industry or field, such as healthcare or finance. They use their industry-specific knowledge to provide insights that businesses can use to make better decisions. Information Analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science or a related field.

What is a Data Analyst?

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, organizing and analyzing data to help a company make better business decisions. They use statistical techniques to identify trends and patterns in data sets, which they then use to develop recommendations for improving business operations. Data Analysts work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, marketing and retail. They typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as mathematics, computer science or statistics. Some Data Analysts may also have a master’s degree or certification in data analytics.

Information Analyst vs. Data Analyst

Here are the main differences between an information analyst and a data analyst.

Job Duties

Both data analysts and information analysts have duties that involve research, but the type of research they do differs. Information analysts conduct research to determine what information a company’s customers need in order to purchase products more effectively. This may include researching customer demographics, buying habits, preferred methods of communication and other details that help information analysts create effective marketing campaigns for their companies.

Data analysts conduct research about a particular aspect of a business, such as sales numbers or customer purchasing behavior. They use this research to inform decisions within their companies, helping decision makers make smarter choices about how to improve operations. Data analysts also often work on projects with specific deadlines, while information analysts typically work on continuous marketing campaigns.

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 in business administration with a focus on data analytics. Data analysts might also be expected to have experience working with different types of software, such as Excel and SQL. Some employers might prefer candidates who have a certification in data analytics from a professional organization, such as the Institute for Certified Analytics Professionals.

Information analysts often need a similar educational background as data analysts. They might also be expected to have experience working with different types of software, such as Excel and SQL. However, information analysts might not need as much experience working with data because their job duties might focus more on organizing information than analyzing it. Information analysts might also be expected to have experience working with databases and other types of information management systems.

Work Environment

Information analysts typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to meet with clients. They spend most of their time sitting at a desk and using a computer to complete projects. Data analysts often work in similar environments, although they may have more opportunities for fieldwork than information analysts do.

Data analysts can also work remotely or on the road, depending on the needs of their employer. Some data analysts work in IT departments, while others work as consultants for companies that need help analyzing data.

Skills

Both information analysts and data analysts use analytical skills to examine data and draw conclusions from their findings. They also both use communication skills to share their findings with others, whether it is in the form of a report, presentation or informal conversation.

Information analysts typically need to have strong research skills so that they can collect data from a variety of sources. They also need to be able to organize this data in a way that makes it easy for others to understand. Data analysts usually work with large sets of data that are already organized, so they may not need to have as strong of research skills. However, they do need to be able to use statistical software programs to analyze this data.

Salary

Information analysts and data analysts both work with data, but they have different roles. Information analysts are responsible for analyzing data and creating reports, while data analysts are responsible for analyzing data and creating reports. Data analysts can earn an average salary of $75,765 per year, while information analysts can earn an average salary of $76,939 per year.