As strong data capabilities become more important , employers are looking for professionals with skills in the architecture , retrieval , and analysis of large sets of data .

For many executives , data analytics can be the difference between being beaten by the competition or making the informed decisions that lead to success . And according to a McKinsey survey , when asked where the greatest need to address any skills shortages exists , most respondents named data analytics .

As a result , businesses must rethink their strategy when it comes to talent acquisition and retention . This new approach must start with upskilling knowledge workers and employees with the ability to use data analytics in their roles .

Through its SparkED programme , data analytics platform Alteryx aims to empower all learners to question , understand and solve problems with data , in every field of study and in preparation for any industry .

A partner of the McLaren Racing , earlier this year the two organisations hosted a unique Datathon at the McLaren Technology Centre , inviting students from universities across the UK to compete in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to analyse real-world data from the McLaren F1 team . Students qualified through a series of individual ‘ escape room ’ challenges , with finalists participating in the data analytics Grand Prix event and getting a behind-the-scenes tour and look at the historical collection of McLaren Racing cars .

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