Data is everywhere. Organisations collect vast amounts of information every day, from purchasing records and supplier performance data to contract compliance reports and financial transactions. But while many people understand the importance of data, there is often confusion about who actually works with it.
When people hear the term “data analytics”, they often picture data scientists or highly technical professionals working behind computer screens. In reality, data analytics has become a valuable skill used across many professions, including procurement, contract management, project management, finance, and supply chain operations.
As procurement continues to evolve from a transactional function to a strategic business partner, professionals are increasingly expected to use data to support decision-making, identify opportunities, and manage risks. Understanding who does data analytics and how it applies to your role can help you stay competitive in a rapidly changing workplace.
What Does Doing Data Analytics Actually Mean?
Data analytics is the process of examining information to uncover patterns, trends, and insights that support better decision-making. While the term may sound technical, many professionals use data analytics in practical ways every day without even realising it.
In a procurement environment, this could involve reviewing spending patterns, monitoring supplier performance, identifying opportunities for savings, or forecasting future purchasing requirements. The goal is not simply to collect data, but to transform information into meaningful insights that help organisations operate more effectively.
If you have ever reviewed a report and used that information to support a recommendation or business decision, you have already been applying the principles of data analytics.
To learn more about the foundations of procurement analytics, read our article: What Is Data Analytics in Procurement?
The Different Professionals Who Use Data Analytics Every Day
One of the most common misconceptions about data analytics is that it is only performed by data analysts. While specialist analysts certainly play an important role in collecting, interpreting, and presenting data, they are far from the only professionals using analytics in the workplace.
Today, data-driven decision-making is embedded across a wide range of professions. Procurement professionals use analytics to monitor spending, evaluate supplier performance, and identify opportunities for improvement. Contract managers rely on data to assess compliance and track service delivery outcomes, while supply chain professionals analyse demand forecasts and inventory levels to improve efficiency.
Project managers also use analytics to monitor budgets, measure progress against milestones, and identify potential risks before they impact project outcomes.
The common thread across all of these roles is the ability to use information to make better decisions. As organisations become increasingly data-driven, analytics is evolving from a specialised function into a valuable workplace skill.
Do You Need to Be a Data Scientist to Work with Analytics?
The short answer is no.
Many professionals avoid analytics because they assume it requires advanced mathematics, coding expertise, or specialised technical knowledge.
The reality is very different.
| Myth | Reality |
| Only data scientists perform analytics | Many professionals use analytics daily |
| You need coding skills | Many tools require little or no coding |
| Analytics is highly technical | Most users focus on interpreting information |
| AI will replace analysts | Human judgement remains essential |
Today’s analytics platforms are designed to make information more accessible than ever. Dashboards, visual reports, and automated insights allow professionals to understand data without needing to build complex models.
For procurement professionals, the real value lies not in creating algorithms but in asking the right questions and using data to support better decisions.
The Most Valuable Analytics Skills for Procurement Professionals
For procurement professionals, developing analytical capability is less about becoming a technical expert and more about building confidence in working with information. Several core skills can help professionals strengthen their ability to make informed decisions and deliver greater value to their organisations.
Data Literacy and Critical Thinking
Data literacy is the ability to understand, interpret, and communicate information effectively. Combined with strong critical thinking skills, it allows procurement professionals to move beyond simply reviewing reports and instead identify trends, question assumptions, and uncover opportunities for improvement.
Communication and Problem-Solving
The value of analytics lies in its ability to support action. Procurement professionals must be able to translate information into meaningful recommendations for stakeholders, whether that involves reducing costs, managing supplier risk, or improving procurement outcomes. Strong communication and problem-solving skills ensure that insights lead to informed decisions rather than simply producing more data.
Confidence with Technology
Modern procurement teams increasingly rely on digital tools, reporting platforms, and automated dashboards. While advanced technical skills are not always necessary, a willingness to engage with technology can help professionals adapt to changing workplace expectations and make better use of available information.
Professionals who are comfortable using procurement systems, dashboards, and reporting tools are better positioned to adapt to future industry changes.
Common Analytics Tools Used in Procurement and Business
The good news is that many analytics tools are already widely available in workplaces.
Some of the most common include:
Microsoft Excel
Still one of the most widely used analytics tools worldwide.
Useful for data organisation, reporting, trend analysis, and budget tracking.
A popular business intelligence platform used to create interactive dashboards and visualisations.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
Platforms such as SAP and Oracle provide extensive reporting and analytics capabilities.
Procurement Management Systems
Modern procurement software often includes built-in analytics for spend management, supplier performance, and contract monitoring.
AI-Powered Reporting Tools
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to automate reporting and identify insights more quickly.
However, human interpretation remains essential to ensure decisions align with organisational goals.
Could Data Analytics Become Part of Your Role?
For many professionals, data analytics is already part of their role, even if it is not reflected in their job title. If you regularly review reports, monitor supplier performance, track spending patterns, assess contract outcomes, or use information to support recommendations, you are already engaging in analytical thinking. The difference is that as procurement continues to evolve, these activities are becoming more strategic and increasingly central to professional success.
Building Analytics Skills for the Future of Procurement
The future of procurement will continue to be shaped by:
- Digital transformation
- Artificial intelligence
- Automation
- Advanced reporting capabilities
- Data-driven decision-making
As these technologies become more common, procurement professionals who understand data will be better equipped to contribute value and adapt to changing business needs.
Industry bodies such as CIPS continue to highlight analytical thinking, digital capability, and data literacy as essential skills for modern procurement professionals.
Developing analytical skills does not require a complete career change.
Instead, focus on:
- Strengthening your understanding of procurement data
- Improving reporting and interpretation skills
- Becoming more confident with digital tools
- Continuing professional development
Professionals seeking to strengthen these capabilities may benefit from formal training and qualifications. The PSP40616 Certificate IV in Procurement and Contracting and the PSP50616 Diploma of Procurement and Contracting help develop the strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and analytical skills increasingly sought by employers.
Data Analytics Is a Skill, Not Just a Job Title
Data analytics is often associated with specialist roles, but the reality is much broader.
Today, professionals across procurement, contract management, supply chain, project management, and business operations use data to make informed decisions every day.
You do not need to become a data scientist to benefit from analytics.
What matters is your ability to:
- Understand information
- Identify meaningful insights
- Ask better questions
- Support decisions with evidence
As procurement continues to evolve, analytical thinking is becoming one of the most valuable skills professionals can develop. Those who can combine procurement expertise with data-driven decision-making will be well positioned for success in the years ahead.