Data mining and statistical analysis forms a foundation for understanding how your organization is actually operating. Simple, descriptive statistics can provide great insight into your organization’s operations and can be easily calculated. Diagnostics analytics help you understand the root cause and relationships associated with your operations. Predictive analytics assist you with forecasting the future. Prescriptive analytics employ more sophisticated techniques that can assist you with data-driven decisions. Data and data analytics are only one part of successful operational leadership with quantitative decision making but form a foundation in understanding the current and future state of your operations.