sascom voices - The sascom magazine blog

Some time ago Jim Davis declared the death of BI as we know it. I've covered this controversial argument before. Rather than beat a dead horse, I'll state, simply, that SAS defines business intelligence as a set of tools for query and reporting. We view these as commoditized tools, meaning they're easy to get and easy to implement, and they're not giving anyone any long-term advantages over their competitors.

So, where can you gain an advantage? With a framework of business-focused technologies that include BI as one component.

The next logical question is: What are the other important components?

And wouldn't you know I have an answer! They are data integration, analytics, business solutions and performance management.

The less obvious question is: Now, what does SAS call this framework?

And here's the part where everyone loses interest. Because really, who cares what we call it, as long as it works, right? That's typically my argument.

But some of us like to name things. And once they're named, we like to define them. And once they're defined, we like to search them. And when we search them, we want our Web page to be first! First, first, first!

Okay, there are some other good reasons for naming things and using industry jargon outside of search engine optimization. Part of it is being able to talk to your colleagues about what you do. Another important part is taking note of how an industry evolves and recognizing that the evolution includes new labels and fresh definitions.

So, if these things interest you, the answer is (finally): business analytics. We're now calling what we do business analytics, and there is some beauty in the SAS framework for business analytics.

The beauty, as I see it, is this:

• You can choose the technologies and capabilities you need right now and achieve results in months, not years.
• Then, you can add new functionality over time ... all from one vendor and all through one framework.

If you do want to learn more, you can search business analytics and see what you find. You'll find some good stuff from TDWI, the B-Eye Network, IDC and SAS. Maybe after today, you'll even find this blog post!

In all seriousness, I recommend this IDC report or this business analytics presentation from Jim Davis. What did you find in the search that you'd recommend? Anything? Also, Why do you think we name things and use industry jargon? What positive purposes does it serve?