Data Science vs Analytics

analytics data_science product_management 
2018-11-01T15:32:20.660Z
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Data Science vs Analytics are two related disciplines in most modern companies. I’ve heard a number of ways to describe the distinctions between the two, but they rarely have consensus. Here are the definitions I’ve synthesized over my career:

Analytics: The practice of analyzing data to explain why a behavior took place.

Data Science: The practice of using data to influence behavior.

So, say you worked for a streaming video company:

The Analytics team would explain why, all of a sudden, old re-runs of Frasier are very popular.

The Data Science team would write the "… you might also like" part of the application to indicate that because you liked other 90’s sitcoms, you might also like Frasier.

Hi, I'm Evan

I write about Technology, Software, and Startups. I use my Product Management, Software Engineering, and Leadership skills to build teams that create world-class digital products.

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