How can you build an ERP data analysis career without a technical background?

2 Learn basic SQL

The second step is to learn basic SQL, which is the most common language for working with relational databases. SQL allows you to write commands that retrieve, manipulate, and analyze data from multiple tables. You can use SQL to perform tasks such as selecting data based on certain criteria, aggregating data by groups, calculating metrics and ratios, and creating reports and dashboards. You don't need to be an expert in SQL to start your ERP data analysis career, but you need to master the fundamentals, such as how to write SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, and HAVING statements. You can learn SQL online through courses, tutorials, and practice exercises.

3 Explore ERP data tools

The third step is to explore the tools that are available for ERP data analysis. Depending on the ERP system you are working with, you might have access to built-in or external tools that can help you access, visualize, and interpret ERP data. For example, some ERP systems have their own reporting modules that allow you to create and customize reports and dashboards using drag-and-drop features. Other ERP systems can connect to external tools like Microsoft Excel, Power BI, Tableau, or QlikView, which are popular software applications for data analysis and visualization. You can use these tools to create charts, graphs, tables, and maps that show trends, patterns, and insights from ERP data.

4 Develop business acumen

The fourth step is to develop your business acumen, which is the ability to understand and apply business knowledge and logic to ERP data analysis. Business acumen helps you to ask the right questions, identify the relevant data sources, and interpret the results in a meaningful way. To develop your business acumen, you need to learn about the business processes, goals, and challenges that are related to the ERP system you are analyzing. You also need to learn about the industry, market, and competitors that affect the business performance and strategy. You can learn from your colleagues, mentors, managers, or clients, as well as from books, articles, podcasts, and webinars.

5 Build your portfolio

The fifth step is to build your portfolio, which is a collection of projects and samples that showcase your ERP data analysis skills and achievements. A portfolio helps you to demonstrate your value, credibility, and potential to employers, clients, or partners. To build your portfolio, you need to work on real or simulated ERP data analysis projects that solve a business problem, answer a business question, or provide a business insight. You need to document your process, methods, tools, and results, and present them in a clear, concise, and professional way. You can use online platforms, such as GitHub, Kaggle, or LinkedIn, to share your portfolio with your network and audience.

6 Network and learn

The sixth step is to network and learn, which is the process of connecting and interacting with other ERP data analysts and professionals, and staying updated on the latest trends, developments, and opportunities in the field. Networking and learning can help you to expand your knowledge, skills, and contacts, and to discover new career paths and possibilities. You can network and learn by joining online or offline communities, forums, groups, or events that are related to ERP data analysis. You can also follow, engage, or collaborate with influencers, experts, or mentors who can inspire, guide, or support you in your career journey.