Updated on: 04/12/2023 Data and information are core to any organisation and business process. Accurate data and meaningful information are of high value to an organisation and are key drivers for effective decision making and problem solving. Business intelligence relies on the use of data science, which makes use of a range of tools and methods, including data mining, data integration, data quality and data warehousing, in conjunction with other information management systems and applications. This unit introduces students to a range of tools, techniques and technologies used for acquiring data and processing it into meaningful information that can be used to support business functions and processes. Students will examine how data and information support business processes, the mechanisms to source and utilise data and turn it in to usable, and valuable, information output. Students will explore real-world business problems, the emergence of data science and how the application of data science can be used to support business processes. Finally, students will demonstrate practical application of data science techniques to support real-world business problems. On successful completion of this unit, students will appreciate the importance and value of data and information in terms of optimising decision making and performance. By exploring the tools, techniques and systems that support business processes, students will be aware of the role and contribution of these technologies and methodologies, and their importance to organisations. As a result, students will develop skills such as communication literacy, critical thinking, analysis, reasoning and interpretation, which are crucial for gaining employment and developing academic competence.