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

If you’re interested in a career in data analysis, you may be wondering what the difference is between a reporting analyst and a data analyst. Both roles require strong analytical and technical skills, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we discuss the differences between reporting analysts and data analysts, and we provide information on what you can expect from each role.

What is a Reporting Analyst?

A Reporting Analyst creates, maintains and presents reports on various data sets to help organizations make better business decisions. They use data visualization techniques to present complex information in a easily digestible format. Reporting Analysts work with data from multiple sources, including databases, spreadsheets and surveys. They use statistical methods to analyze this data and look for trends or patterns. Reporting Analysts then create reports based on their findings and present these reports to managers, executives or other clients. They may also be responsible for training other staff on how to use reporting tools and best practices.

What is a Data Analyst?

Data Analysts collect, organize and study data to help companies make better business decisions. They use statistical techniques to find trends and patterns in large data sets. Data Analysts often specialize in a particular industry, such as healthcare or retail. They use their findings to create reports and presentations that explain their analysis to business leaders. Data Analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science or a related field. They must be able to effectively communicate their findings to non-technical audiences.

Reporting Analyst vs. Data Analyst

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

Job Duties

Reporting analysts prepare reports for executives and stakeholders. They often work with external clients to ensure the success of their company. Data analysts, however, use the data they collect internally to help their companies improve. The data analysts may share their findings with reporting analysts or other members of the company, but they’re typically the only employees who see the complete set of data.

Reporting analysts usually have a specific goal when creating a report. For example, if an executive asks them to create a report showing how many customers abandon their online shopping carts, the reporting analyst will research and create that report. Data analysts rarely receive requests like this because there’s usually no need for them to create new reports. Instead, data analysts find ways to improve existing processes by using the data they already have.

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 analyst positions might require experience working with specific software programs, such as Excel or Tableau. Some employers prefer candidates who have a background in programming languages like SQL as well.

Reporting analysts often need a similar educational background as data analysts. Many reporting analyst roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field. However, some employers may be willing to consider candidates with a degree in another area if they have significant experience working with data and generating reports. Like data analysts, reporting analysts might also benefit from having a background in programming languages and software programs that are commonly used in the field.

Work Environment

Reporting analysts typically work in an office setting, often for a large company. They may also travel to meet with clients or attend conferences and events. Data analysts usually work in an office environment as well, but they may also spend time working remotely from home. Some data analysts may work on projects that require them to travel to different locations to collect information.

Both reporting and data analysts can expect to work long hours during busy seasons or when deadlines are approaching. Reporting analysts may have more regular business hours than data analysts because of the nature of their jobs.

Skills

Both reporting 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 reports or presentations.

Reporting analysts typically focus on creating reports that summarize data for their organization. To do this, they need to be able to understand the needs of their audience and craft their reports accordingly. They also need to have strong writing skills to clearly and concisely communicate their findings. Data analysts, on the other hand, often focus on analyzing data to find trends or patterns. They may use statistical analysis to examine data sets and make predictions about future outcomes. To do this, they need to have strong math skills.

Salary

The average salary for a reporting analyst is $71,425 per year, while the average salary for a data analyst is $75,765 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of company you work for, your level of experience and your location.