Data Analyst Intern | Aug. 2020 – Nov.

2020

requirement gathering, snowflake, powerbi, informatica, ssis

Expanded Role Description:
In this role, I was responsible for supporting the data analytics team by using SQL, Informatica, and Tableau to transform and analyze respondent data
related to political processes. I worked directly with large datasets, ensuring that the data was clean, structured, and accessible for analysis. My tasks
ranged from data cleansing to dashboard creation, with a small amount of Python scripting for automation.

1. Data Analysis and Dashboard Creation (SQL & Tableau)

 I used SQL to query and aggregate data from various sources. This involved filtering, joining tables, and summarizing key metrics to
make data ready for visualization.
 With Tableau, I built interactive dashboards that visualized data trends, such as political party preferences, regional voting patterns,
and demographic breakdowns. These dashboards were crucial for political strategists in making informed decisions and shaping
campaign strategies.
 I regularly updated these dashboards as new survey data came in, ensuring that the analysis reflected the most current information
available.
2. Data Cleansing and Transformation (Informatica & SQL)

 I primarily used Informatica to automate data cleansing tasks, such as removing invalid records, standardizing data formats, and
ensuring that datasets matched the required schema.
 With SQL, I handled additional cleansing tasks, like identifying and removing null values, checking for duplicates, and validating
data consistency across various tables. This was essential in improving the accuracy of our analysis, leading to a 24% improvement
in data quality.
3. Predictive Modeling and Scripting (Python)

 Although Python wasn’t a primary tool, I wrote small scripts to automate certain data processing tasks. For example, I used NumPy
to perform quick calculations and apply basic statistical methods to support data preparation.
 I also helped with the predictive models used to forecast election outcomes, but this was more in a supporting role, contributing
clean data and ensuring it was ready for analysis.
4. Cold Calling and Survey Data Collection

 As part of my role, I also participated in cold calling and surveying to collect fresh respondent data. This allowed me to ensure that
our analysis was based on a representative sample and that our datasets remained comprehensive.
 I worked to ensure that the data collected through surveys was consistent with the data we had already gathered, which helped
maintain the integrity of our dataset.

Common Interview Questions and Answers:

1. Can you describe a time when you had to analyze a large dataset? What tools did you use?
Answer:
In my role at Braun Research, I frequently worked with large respondent datasets, which were used to assess voting patterns and political preferences. I
primarily used SQL to query the data, filtering out irrelevant information and aggregating key metrics. Once the data was prepared, I used Tableau to
create dashboards that visualized the data in an easy-to-understand format. These dashboards helped political strategists make data-driven decisions. I also
leveraged Informatica to automate some of the data preparation tasks, ensuring the dataset was clean and well-structured before analysis.

2. How did you ensure the quality of the data you were working with?
Answer:
Ensuring data quality was a critical part of my role. I used SQL to identify and remove null values, duplicates, and inconsistencies in the data. In addition,
I used Informatica to automate the data cleansing process, such as transforming data into a standard format, validating data consistency, and performing
basic error checks. By doing so, we improved the accuracy of our data by 24%, which ultimately led to more reliable analysis and insights.

3. Can you explain how you used Tableau in your role?

Answer:
In my role, I used Tableau to create interactive dashboards that visualized political trends, such as voter preferences, party support, and demographic
breakdowns. These dashboards were essential for providing insights to political teams, helping them understand how different voter groups were likely to
impact the election outcomes. I designed these dashboards to be easy to navigate, so stakeholders could drill down into specific data points or explore
various scenarios based on the data. I also regularly updated these dashboards with new survey data, ensuring they reflected the latest trends.

4. How did you collaborate with others during your internship?

Answer:
Collaboration was a key aspect of my role. I worked closely with the data analysts and senior leadership to understand the business needs and ensure that
our analyses were aligned with the project goals. I also interacted with the survey teams to collect fresh data from respondents, ensuring that the data we
used for analysis was accurate and up-to-date. Throughout my internship, I regularly communicated findings to stakeholders and collaborated with them to
adjust our analysis based on new insights or shifting priorities.

5. What role did Python play in your internship?

Answer:
Although Python wasn’t my primary tool, I used it to write small scripts for automating repetitive tasks, such as cleaning and manipulating data. For
example, I used NumPy to perform basic statistical functions and support the processing of data before it was analyzed. While I didn’t use Python for
complex modeling or deep analysis, it helped streamline certain data tasks and contributed to the overall efficiency of the data preparation process.

6. How did you handle challenges when working with large datasets?
Answer:
Working with large datasets often presented challenges like data inconsistencies or missing values. I overcame these by using SQL to filter and clean the
data, and Informatica to automate data transformation processes. For example, I standardized formats, removed null or invalid records, and ensured the
data was consistent across tables. These steps helped mitigate potential issues and ensured that our analyses were based on accurate, reliable data.
Additionally, I used Tableau to visualize and monitor data quality in real-time, allowing me to identify any potential issues early in the analysis process.

Python was used to automate certain tasks like validation and entry of false values before it hits informatica. As well as playing around with
visualizations and outlier analysis before input for visualization

Project Title
Spotify Wrapped: End-of-Year Milestone Analysis Using
Alteryx

Objective
Analyze Spotify listening data to assess milestones, such as:

 Favorite genre.
 Most listened-to artists and songs.
 Genres or artists you recently started listening to.
 Listening trends throughout the year.

Steps
1. Data Collection and Preparation

 Data Source:
 Export listening history from Spotify's API.
 Gather data on tracks, artists, genres, and timestamps.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 Input Data Tool: Use Alteryx’s Input Data tool to import JSON or CSV files from the API output.
 Data Cleansing Tool: Clean the data by:
 Removing null or incomplete entries.
 Standardizing genres (e.g., grouping similar genres like “Hip-Hop” and “Rap”).
2. Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA)

 Key Insights to Explore:

 Total listening time.
 Top 10 most played songs and artists.
 Genre distribution over time.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 Summarize Tool: Aggregate total play counts by genre, artist, or song.
 Filter Tool: Extract data for specific months or compare the first half of the year with the second.
 Formula Tool:
 Create new fields, such as “Listening Duration (Minutes)” from play timestamps.

3. Genre Popularity Over Time

 Goal: Assess trends in genre popularity and identify recently discovered genres.
 Process:
 Use the play timestamps to break down listening data by month or quarter.
 Identify genres that had low play counts early in the year but significant increases later.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 DateTime Tool: Convert timestamps into usable date formats for grouping.
 Time Series Tool: Analyze the growth of genre popularity over time.

4. Identify Most-Listened-To Artists and Songs

 Goal: Rank the top artists and songs based on play counts.
 Process:
 Group the data by artist and song.
 Aggregate total play counts for each.
 Sort the data to identify the top performers.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 Sort Tool: Order data by play counts in descending order.
 Summarize Tool: Group data by artist and song for aggregation.

5. Find "New Favorites"

 Goal: Identify artists or genres that emerged as favorites late in the year.
 Process:
 Compare play counts for artists or genres between the first and last three months of the year.
 Highlight those with significant growth.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 Join Tool: Merge datasets for different time periods.
 Multi-Row Formula Tool: Calculate growth percentages.
 Filter Tool: Highlight only those with a high percentage increase.

6. Visualization and Reporting

 Goal: Present your findings in a clear and engaging way.

 Process:
 Export processed data to Tableau or Power BI for dashboards.
 Create visuals such as:
  Pie charts for genre distribution.
 Line graphs for listening trends.
 Bar charts for top songs/artists.
 Tools in Alteryx:
 Output Data Tool: Export to Tableau, Excel, or other reporting tools.

Example Workflow in Alteryx

1. Input Spotify Data: Use the Input Data tool to load the exported JSON or CSV.
2. Clean and Prepare: Use Data Cleansing, Filter, and Formula tools to prepare the data.
3. Aggregate and Analyze: Summarize data by key dimensions (e.g., genre, artist).
4. Calculate Trends: Use DateTime and Time Series tools to analyze trends.
5. Export Results: Output to a dashboarding tool for visualization.

Outcome
By the end of the project, you’ll have:

 A personalized report of your Spotify listening habits.

 Insights into how your preferences evolved over the year.
 Identification of your top songs, artists, and genres.

Spotify API's Role in the Project:

1. Data Collection:

 Accessing Data: The Spotify API allows you to retrieve data about your listening history, including detailed information about
tracks, artists, genres, and timestamps. Specifically, you'll use the Spotify Web API to get the necessary data for this analysis.
 Data Fields to Retrieve:
 Track Information: You can get data on the tracks you've listened to, including track name, artist, album, genre (if
available), and play timestamp.
 Artist and Genre Information: You can retrieve details about the artists and genres you listened to, which are essential
for understanding preferences and trends.
 Play Count: The API can track how many times you've listened to a particular song, artist, or genre during the year.
2. Exporting Data from Spotify:

 Spotify’s Web API allows you to extract your listening data, including your entire Spotify history or a subset based on a specific
time period (e.g., a yearly breakdown of listening habits).
 You'll export the data in JSON or CSV format, depending on your preference. This is the data you will then load into Alteryx for
analysis.
3. Integration into Alteryx Workflow:

 Input Data Tool in Alteryx: After exporting the data from Spotify, you'll use the Input Data tool to load the JSON or CSV file into
Alteryx.
 Data Parsing: In case the data is in JSON format, Alteryx has built-in tools like the JSON Parse Tool that allow you to extract
specific fields (such as artist, track name, genre, and timestamp) from the raw data.
 Once the data is loaded into Alteryx, it can be cleaned, transformed, and analyzed using Alteryx tools like Data Cleansing,
Formula, and Summarize tools.
4. Timestamp Analysis:

 Using the DateTime Tool and Time Series Tool in Alteryx, you can analyze timestamp data from the Spotify API to assess
listening trends, such as which genres or artists you listened to most in specific months or quarters.
 Spotify API provides timestamps for each play, which you can use to segment your listening habits over time.
5. Real-Time or Historical Data:
  The Spotify API allows you to access historical listening data as well as real-time data. This can be particularly useful for
assessing how your listening habits evolved throughout the year. You can compare your preferences from January to December by
analyzing the timestamps provided by the API.

Example: Data Collection Using Spotify API

You would first authenticate via the Spotify API to get access to your listening data. Here's how you might retrieve listening data with the API:

 API Call to Get Listening Data:

bash
CopyEdit
GET [Link]
GET [Link]
GET [Link]

These calls will provide data like the top artists, songs, genres based on your listening history, including the number of times each track or artist was
played, timestamps, etc.

Once you've exported this data from Spotify, you can proceed with the steps outlined in the Alteryx workflow, such as cleaning the data, performing
exploratory data analysis (EDA), and ultimately visualizing the insights.

Outcome:

 By retrieving and analyzing data from the Spotify API, you will gain deep insights into your listening patterns over the year, such as how
certain genres or artists gained popularity over time and what trends you followed throughout the year. These insights will be presented in your
final report, which will be enriched by the data pulled from the API.

In summary, the Spotify API provides the data you need to power the project, and tools like Alteryx allow you to manipulate, analyze, and visualize that
data for insightful end-of-year milestones.

Here are some interview questions based on the Spotify Wrapped: End-of-Year Milestone Analysis Using Alteryx project, along with sample answers:

1. How would you import and clean Spotify data using Alteryx?
Answer: To import Spotify data, I would use the Input Data Tool to load CSV or JSON files, depending on the format provided by Spotify’s API. Once
the data is imported, I’d use the Data Cleansing Tool to handle missing or incomplete data, remove null values, and standardize the genre names (e.g.,
grouping "Hip-Hop" and "Rap" into a single category). This ensures consistent data for analysis.

2. How would you calculate the total listening time for a given period in Alteryx?
Answer: To calculate total listening time, I would use the Formula Tool in Alteryx to create a new field that converts play timestamps into duration (e.g.,
subtracting the timestamp of when the song started from when it ended). Then, I would use the Summarize Tool to aggregate the total listening time, either
by genre, artist, or the entire dataset, depending on the analysis goal.

3. Can you explain how you would analyze genre popularity trends over time in Alteryx?
Answer: I would begin by using the DateTime Tool to convert the play timestamps into usable date formats (e.g., extracting the month or quarter). Then,
using the Time Series Tool, I would break down the listening data by time periods (months or quarters) to assess the growth of genre popularity over time.
The Summarize Tool would aggregate the number of plays for each genre, and I would filter the data to focus on significant changes in listening trends.

4. How would you identify the most listened-to artists and songs over the year?
Answer: I would group the data by artist and song using the Summarize Tool and then aggregate the total number of plays for each. To identify the top
artists and songs, I’d use the Sort Tool to order the data by play count in descending order, allowing me to easily identify the most popular ones over the
year.

5. If you wanted to identify “new favorites” (artists or genres that grew in popularity late in the year), how would you go about this?
Answer: To identify new favorites, I would split the data into two sets: one for the first three months and one for the last three months of the year. I would
use the Join Tool to merge these datasets and compare the play counts for each artist or genre in both periods. Using the Multi-Row Formula Tool, I
would calculate the percentage increase in play counts, filtering the results to highlight the artists or genres that saw the most significant growth.

6. How would you visualize your findings once the analysis is complete?
Answer: Once the analysis is complete, I would use the Output Data Tool to export the data to Tableau or Power BI for visualization. In Tableau, I’d
create dashboards with pie charts to represent genre distribution, line graphs to show trends over time, and bar charts for the top artists and songs. This
would allow stakeholders to easily digest the results and understand the key trends in the data.
7. How would you handle missing or incomplete data in this analysis?
Answer: I would use the Data Cleansing Tool in Alteryx to remove rows with null or incomplete values. For instance, if there are rows where the song
name or artist is missing, I would filter them out. If the missing data is minimal, I could impute the missing values with the average or median of the data,
but typically, removing them would be the most appropriate approach for maintaining clean and reliable results.

8. Can you explain how you would perform time-series analysis on the Spotify data?
Answer: Time-series analysis would allow me to analyze trends over time, such as the popularity of genres or artists. I would use the DateTime Tool to
extract the month or quarter from the play timestamps. Then, I would use the Time Series Tool to plot the data and identify trends, such as the growth or
decline in the number of plays for specific genres or artists over the year. This would help reveal patterns in listening behavior, including seasonal changes
or new discoveries.

9. How would you handle large datasets in Alteryx to ensure performance remains efficient?
Answer: To handle large datasets efficiently, I would use in-memory processing in Alteryx and ensure that data is filtered early in the workflow to reduce
the size. I would also make use of Cache Tools to store intermediate results, which speeds up subsequent processing. Additionally, I would minimize
unnecessary joins and aggregations and ensure that data is processed in smaller, manageable chunks when possible.

10. If you encountered a spike in play counts for a particular genre, how would you investigate it?
Answer: If I noticed a sudden spike in play counts for a genre, I would first verify that the data is accurate by checking for any anomalies, such as
duplicate entries or incorrect timestamps. I would then drill down into the data to see if the spike is due to a specific artist or song within that genre. Using
the Filter Tool, I could isolate the records for that time period and genre to further investigate and identify the cause of the spike. If the spike is legitimate,
I could explore potential reasons, such as seasonal popularity or new releases in that genre.

How to Frame Informatica in the Interview

When discussing this process in an interview, you can say:

 "I used Informatica to handle the heavy lifting of data cleaning and transformation. It allowed me to extract raw data from multiple sources,
filter out invalid rows, and standardize fields. Once the data was prepared, I exported it to a CSV file for further analysis in Python. Using
Python, I automated summarization and visualization tasks, making insights accessible to the team. This combination of tools reduced manual
effort and improved data accuracy by 24%."

Would you like to expand this with more technical specifics, or does this match your experience level?

Got it! For this role, you can emphasize Informatica for data cleansing and transformation, Tableau for creating dashboards and visual insights, and SQL
for querying and preparing data. Python can be mentioned briefly for automating minor tasks or creating simple scripts for specific needs. Let me know if
you'd like a refined description for this balance!

Business analyst experience:

Expanded Experience Description

1. Research and Testing on Application Processes

 Context: As part of an agile development team, I was responsible for researching and testing various aspects of application
processes, aiming to improve efficiency, technical stability, and overall performance.
 Responsibilities:
 Conducted comprehensive testing on different components of the application to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies in
the workflow.
 Worked closely with QA engineers to perform functional and regression testing, ensuring the application met the
required specifications while maintaining stability.
 Identified areas where the agile process could be improved by tracking sprints, iteration timelines, and developer velocity,
and then suggested process optimizations to the team.
 Collaborated with developers to implement and test technical adjustments, ensuring they were aligned with the overall
workflow improvements.
2. Gathering and Documenting Requirements

 Context: I played an essential role in the documentation and gathering of application requirements, working directly with
stakeholders and project managers.
 Responsibilities:
  Facilitated discussions with business analysts, product owners, and end-users to ensure I had a clear understanding of
the needs for the application.
 Documented functional and non-functional requirements to ensure that development teams had a comprehensive
understanding of the project’s scope.
 Utilized tools like Jira and Confluence to maintain and organize requirements, tracking progress, and ensuring the
information was accessible to all relevant parties.
 Regularly coordinated with management and development teams, bridging any gaps in understanding and ensuring the
project velocity was maintained without compromising on quality.
 Focused on gathering feedback during sprint reviews to identify new requirements or changes to the application scope
based on evolving needs or technical constraints.
3. Reporting and Recommendations

 Context: To ensure transparency and improve decision-making, I created comprehensive reports to communicate findings and
recommendations for process improvements.
 Responsibilities:
 Analyzed application performance and identified areas for optimization, such as reducing load times or improving user
experience features.
 Designed detailed reports that highlighted key performance indicators (KPIs), along with insights into user behavior,
application speed, and reliability.
 Used data visualization tools (like Tableau) to present findings in an engaging and easy-to-understand manner for both
technical and non-technical stakeholders.
 Provided recommendations based on industry best practices and trends, offering solutions to increase application
stability, improve performance, and optimize workflows.
 Delivered findings to management, suggesting actionable improvements that helped prioritize development work and
refined the application's design for future iterations.

Impact of Your Role

 By conducting thorough research and testing, you ensured that the application was robust and aligned with the business needs, leading to a
reduction in downtime and more efficient sprint cycles.
 Your documentation of requirements helped keep the development team on track, reducing misunderstandings and accelerating the development
process.
 The reports you created empowered management to make data-driven decisions, improving the technical performance and user experience
of the application.

1. Can you describe your experience with researching and testing application processes?
Answer: In my role, I was part of an agile development team, and I worked closely with both developers and QA engineers to research and test various
components of the application. My goal was to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks within the application workflow. I performed functional and
regression testing to ensure the application met all required specifications while maintaining technical stability. Additionally, I tracked sprint progress and
developer velocity, identifying areas for process improvements and suggesting optimizations for better efficiency.

2. How did you collaborate with the development and QA teams in your testing process?
Answer: I worked closely with both the development and QA teams throughout the testing process. For example, I communicated directly with QA
engineers to perform thorough functional and regression testing. I ensured that the application met the necessary specifications and identified any areas of
concern. Additionally, I worked with developers to implement and test technical adjustments based on my findings. I collaborated with them to ensure that
these changes aligned with the broader goals of improving efficiency and maintaining workflow stability.

3. How did you identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies in the application workflow?

Answer: I used a combination of functional testing and data analysis to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies. By closely observing the application’s
performance during testing and analyzing its behavior, I could pinpoint areas where the workflow slowed down or didn’t operate as expected. I also
collaborated with developers and QA engineers to track performance metrics and monitored the application’s speed, responsiveness, and stability. This
helped me identify areas where optimization could have the most significant impact on overall efficiency.

4. What tools did you use for gathering and documenting requirements, and how did you ensure effective communication?
Answer: I used tools like Jira and Confluence to gather, document, and track both functional and non-functional requirements. These tools were essential
for maintaining transparency across teams and ensuring that everyone had access to the latest requirements and project updates. I collaborated directly with
business analysts, product owners, and end-users to ensure that the documented requirements accurately reflected their needs. Regular meetings, sprint
reviews, and feedback sessions helped bridge any gaps in understanding, ensuring the project remained aligned with stakeholders’ expectations.

5. How did you ensure that the requirements were understood by all relevant parties?
Answer: To ensure clear understanding, I facilitated regular communication between all relevant parties, including business analysts, product owners,
developers, and stakeholders. I used Jira and Confluence to document detailed requirements, including both functional and non-functional aspects, which
were made accessible to everyone involved. I also organized regular sprint reviews and feedback sessions to confirm that the requirements were correctly
understood and to address any potential changes or clarifications. This approach ensured alignment and helped maintain project velocity.

6. Can you explain how you tracked project progress and handled changes in requirements during the development process?
Answer: I tracked progress by maintaining up-to-date documentation and using tools like Jira to manage tasks and milestones. During sprint reviews and
regular meetings, I gathered feedback from stakeholders to ensure any changes in requirements were captured and documented. If there were significant
shifts in requirements, I worked with the team to re-assess the project scope and adjust timelines if necessary. This iterative approach allowed us to remain
flexible and respond to evolving needs while keeping the project on track.

7. What kind of reports did you create, and how did you ensure they were insightful for stakeholders?
Answer: I created detailed reports that highlighted key performance indicators (KPIs), application performance metrics, and insights into user behavior,
application speed, and reliability. I used Tableau and other data visualization tools to present this data in a clear and engaging way. The reports were
tailored for both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring they were easy to understand and actionable. I focused on providing actionable insights
and recommendations for improving the application, which helped management make informed decisions about future development priorities.

8. How did you use data visualization tools to communicate findings and recommendations?
Answer: I used Tableau to visualize application performance data and present key findings in a way that was both engaging and informative. I created
dashboards and charts to highlight trends in user behavior, application speed, and overall reliability. These visualizations helped stakeholders quickly
understand the most important insights from the data, making it easier for them to make decisions about where to focus development efforts. Additionally, I
used the visual reports to present actionable recommendations that would improve application stability and optimize workflows.

9. Can you provide an example of a process improvement you recommended based on your analysis?
Answer: One example of a process improvement I recommended was reducing load times for specific user features. After analyzing application
performance data, I identified that certain features were causing delays during peak usage times. I presented these findings to the development team and
suggested implementing caching mechanisms to optimize performance. This recommendation was implemented, and it resulted in a noticeable
improvement in user experience, as the load times were significantly reduced, leading to higher user satisfaction and retention.

10. How did you manage stakeholder expectations while balancing scope and project velocity?
Answer: Managing stakeholder expectations was crucial, especially when balancing scope and project velocity. I ensured that stakeholders had clear
visibility into the project’s progress by regularly communicating with them through sprint reviews and meetings. Whenever changes to scope were
suggested, I worked with the development team to assess the impact on timelines and resources. I made sure to prioritize features based on business value,
and when necessary, I helped stakeholders understand trade-offs in terms of time or resources to maintain a sustainable project velocity while ensuring
quality.

These questions and answers will help you demonstrate your experience and approach to being a business analyst in agile environments, focusing on your
ability to gather requirements, improve processes, and communicate insights effectively.

College project:
Project Title: Global Revenue Data Pipeline Configuration and Cleaning in SSIS
Project Overview: As part of my Computer Science coursework at the University of Texas at Dallas, I led a project focused on building and optimizing a
data pipeline using SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS). The project aimed to clean and configure the data flow for analyzing global revenue data
provided by T-Mobile and their international partner Vodafone. The data pipeline was designed to integrate multiple datasets, clean the data, and prepare it
for analysis, enabling the teams at T-Mobile and Vodafone to make more informed decisions about their global revenue streams.

Key Responsibilities and Steps:

1. Collaborating with Industry Partners:

 This project involved working closely with T-Mobile and Vodafone, two leading telecom companies. The collaboration focused on
understanding their revenue data requirements and how to integrate data from both companies' systems.
 I coordinated with the data management teams from both T-Mobile and Vodafone to align on the data sources, types, and formats. I
ensured the pipeline would be flexible to accommodate future changes in how data is structured or delivered.
2. Data Source Identification and Collection:
  The project started with identifying the various data sources from both T-Mobile and Vodafone. These sources included financial
transactions, revenue reports, and other key performance indicators (KPIs) from their respective systems.
 I used SSIS to connect to both internal databases and external data sources, leveraging AWS to access data stored in cloud
environments. This involved setting up data connections using SSIS to retrieve data from Amazon RDS and other AWS services.
3. Data Cleaning and Transformation:

 Data cleaning was one of the most crucial tasks in this project. The revenue data from T-Mobile and Vodafone had discrepancies,
missing values, and various formatting issues.
 Using SSIS, I built Data Flow Tasks to clean and standardize the data. This included:
 Removing duplicates in the datasets.
 Handling missing or NULL values by setting default values or removing invalid entries.
 Standardizing currency formats for consistency across regions.
 Converting time zones for revenue data, as data from multiple countries needed to be aligned to a common time frame.
 The cleaned data was then transformed using SSIS Transformations (such as Lookup, Derived Column, and Conditional Split)
to create a unified format for analysis.
4. Building the Data Pipeline:

 The data pipeline was designed to ensure the efficient flow of cleaned data from its source to the analysis stage. The pipeline used
SSIS Control Flow Tasks for task sequencing and error handling.
 I set up scheduling in SSIS to automate the data extraction, cleaning, and transformation processes, ensuring that the pipeline ran at
regular intervals without manual intervention.
 Additionally, I configured logging within SSIS to monitor the performance of the pipeline and capture any failures or bottlenecks in
the process.
5. Integration of Global Revenue Data:

 One of the challenges in this project was integrating global data from T-Mobile and Vodafone, which operated in different regions
with varying data formats and structures.
 I worked on merging and aggregating the revenue data into a single global dataset, ensuring that all revenue streams from different
countries and services were properly accounted for.
 This involved using SQL queries within SSIS to join tables and perform calculations, such as summarizing revenue by country or
creating new metrics like quarterly revenue growth.
6. Testing and Validation:

 After configuring the data pipeline, I performed extensive testing and validation to ensure the pipeline was working as expected.
This involved:
 Testing the entire flow of data from extraction to loading.
 Ensuring that the cleaned data was accurate and consistent.
 Verifying that the aggregated global revenue data was correct by comparing the outputs against source reports from T-
Mobile and Vodafone.
7. Preparing the Pipeline for Analysis:

 Once the data pipeline was complete and validated, I prepared the data for downstream analysis. This included:
 Exporting the cleaned and aggregated data into SQL Server for analysis.
 Ensuring that the data was available for analysis tools like Tableau or Power BI for data visualization and business
reporting.
 The pipeline was designed to be scalable and flexible, allowing for easy updates as new revenue data came in.

Skills and Tools Used:

 SSIS (SQL Server Integration Services): Main tool for building and managing the data pipeline, data flow tasks, and transformations.
 AWS (Amazon Web Services): Utilized for data storage and retrieval from cloud environments, specifically using services like Amazon RDS
to access revenue data.
 SQL Server: Used for querying and storing the cleaned and aggregated data.
 Data Cleaning and Transformation: Techniques used to handle missing values, duplicates, and standardize data formats.
 Collaboration and Communication: Worked closely with industry partners (T-Mobile and Vodafone) to ensure the pipeline met their needs
and data requirements.
Outcome:

 The project resulted in a fully automated data pipeline that effectively integrated and cleaned the revenue data from T-Mobile and Vodafone.
 The final product allowed the partners to easily access accurate and aggregated global revenue data, providing a foundation for more detailed
business analysis and decision-making.
 The global revenue data was now prepared and structured to help both T-Mobile and Vodafone track and analyze their financial performance
across multiple regions, significantly improving reporting efficiency

pharaoh experience
Pharaoh Vape and Distribution – Plano, TX
Store Associate and BI Developer | July 2024 - Sept. 2024

At Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I was responsible for both operational tasks and generating business intelligence insights. My focus was on providing
actionable data for decision-making across 17 locations, while managing day-to-day operations for the single store I was assigned.

Key Responsibilities and Achievements:

1. Operational Management for Single Location:

 Managed the day-to-day operations at a single store location, including employee scheduling, training, and inventory management.
 Worked closely with distributors to ensure timely deliveries and maintain product availability.
2. Data Collection and Reporting:

 Gathered data from Clover POS systems used across all 17 locations, including sales metrics, inventory levels, and product
performance.
 Cleaned and processed the data to create accurate reports using Power BI. These reports covered sales trends, inventory status, and
performance metrics across locations, providing a comprehensive view of business operations.
3. Business Intelligence (BI) Analysis and Actionable Insights:

 Developed key performance indicators (KPIs) to track sales performance and inventory health, helping the management team make
data-driven decisions.
 Created detailed Power BI dashboards to present insights to the CEO and other stakeholders, assisting in inventory planning, sales
strategies, and overall operational improvements.
4. Marketing Strategy and Website Enhancements:

 Applied insights from BI to design and implement targeted marketing strategies, such as promoting high-demand products and
optimizing underperforming categories.
 Contributed to website enhancements, using data to drive customer engagement and improve online visibility.
5. Inventory Management and Forecasting:

 Leveraged sales data to help forecast future demand and maintain optimal inventory levels, minimizing overstock and reducing the
risk of stockouts.
 Collaborated with management to adjust inventory strategies based on performance data across all locations.

Skills and Tools Used:

 Clover POS: Collected transactional data for analysis.

 Power BI: Designed dashboards and reports to communicate insights on sales performance, inventory, and trends.
 Data Cleaning: Processed data to ensure it was ready for accurate reporting and analysis.
 Marketing Strategy Design: Developed marketing strategies based on data insights to boost sales and engagement.
 Inventory Management: Used BI insights to optimize inventory levels and improve stock management.

Outcome:
The insights and reports I created from the 17-location data helped improve decision-making around sales, inventory, and marketing strategies. By
leveraging data from Clover POS and Power BI, I was able to contribute to operational efficiency and enhanced performance at the store level.
Pivot tables
Scenario:
You work for a retail company, and you need to analyze sales performance across different regions, products, and time periods. The dataset contains the
following fields:

 Date: The date of the transaction.

 Region: The location of the store (e.g., East, West, North, South).
 Product: The name of the product sold.
 Category: The type of product (e.g., Electronics, Clothing).
 Sales: The revenue generated from the transaction.
 Quantity: The number of units sold.

Task 1: Summarizing Sales by Region

 Objective: Determine total sales for each region.

 Solution Using a Pivot Table:
1. Drag Region to the Rows section.
2. Drag Sales to the Values section and ensure the aggregation is set to Sum.

The pivot table will display total sales for each region, helping identify which region generates the most revenue.

Task 2: Comparing Product Performance Across Regions

 Objective: See how different products perform in each region.

 Solution Using a Pivot Table:
1. Drag Region to the Rows section.
2. Drag Product to the Columns section.
3. Drag Sales to the Values section.

The pivot table will show a grid where rows represent regions, columns represent products, and the values show total sales. This reveals which products are
performing well in specific regions.

Task 3: Tracking Monthly Sales Trends

 Objective: Analyze sales trends over time to identify seasonality or growth.

 Solution Using a Pivot Table:
1. Drag Date to the Rows section.
2. Group the dates by Month or Quarter (Right-click the dates → Group → Select Month or Quarter).
3. Drag Sales to the Values section.

This pivot table provides insights into monthly or quarterly sales trends, helping you identify peak periods or declining sales.

Task 4: Evaluating Category Performance

 Objective: Identify which product categories are contributing most to revenue.

 Solution Using a Pivot Table:
1. Drag Category to the Rows section.
 2. Drag Sales to the Values section.
3. Drag Region to the Columns section (optional) to break it down further by region.

The pivot table will show total sales for each product category, helping prioritize marketing or inventory efforts for high-performing categories.

Task 5: Identifying Top-Selling Products

 Objective: Find the top 10 products by sales.

 Solution Using a Pivot Table:
1. Drag Product to the Rows section.
2. Drag Sales to the Values section.
3. Apply a value filter (Right-click on a product → Filter → Top 10 by Sales).

This allows you to focus on the best-performing products, enabling targeted promotions or restocking.

Why Pivot Tables Are Ideal for This Use Case

1. Dynamic Analysis: Easily adjust fields to explore different angles of the data.
2. Speed and Efficiency: Quickly summarize and organize large datasets without manual effort.
3. Interactivity: Filters, slicers, and grouping make it easy to explore specific subsets of data.
4. Scalability: Pivot tables can handle large datasets, making them perfect for business-critical insights.

General Interview questions:

1. Can you describe your experience with SQL, particularly with Snowflake?
Answer:
In my previous role at Braun Research, I extensively used SQL to cleanse and transform data within Informatica. This included omitting null values,
altering tables, and assessing invalid datasets, which improved data accuracy by 24%. While I have not directly worked on a Snowflake migration from
Azure, I am familiar with Snowflake’s data warehousing concepts and can apply my SQL expertise to optimize queries, manage large datasets, and ensure
efficient data processing. Additionally, I’ve worked on predictive models in Python using cleaned SQL data, which gives me a strong foundation for
integrating Snowflake into data workflows.

2. How have you used Power BI to create dashboards or reports?

Answer:
At Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I managed data across 17 locations and used Power BI to create interactive dashboards that visualized key metrics such
as sales trends, inventory levels, and customer preferences. These dashboards allowed stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly. I focused on
creating visually intuitive reports with filters and drill-down capabilities, ensuring both high-level overviews and detailed insights were available. My
ability to align Power BI dashboards with business objectives has helped improve operational efficiency.

3. Can you provide an example of a time you automated a reporting or data processing task?
Answer:
While at Braun Research, I automated parts of the data validation process using Python. I wrote scripts leveraging libraries like NumPy to analyze and
validate large datasets before they were fed into predictive models. This automation significantly reduced manual effort and improved data accuracy.
Additionally, I optimized reporting workflows by integrating SQL queries with Excel Pivot Tables, streamlining the process of generating insights for
stakeholders.

4. Have you worked on data validation procedures? If so, how did you ensure data accuracy?
Answer:
Yes, data validation was a critical part of my responsibilities at Braun Research. I used SQL to identify and remove invalid datasets, ensuring only accurate
and relevant data was used in downstream processes. I also developed validation scripts in Python to cross-check data integrity and consistency across
sources. These procedures helped improve the overall reliability of the insights we generated, enabling confident decision-making for election result
predictions and risk management.

5. What is your experience with Excel, and how have you utilized advanced functions like Pivot Tables?
Answer:
I am highly proficient in Excel and regularly used advanced features like Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, and conditional formatting. At Pharaoh Vape and
Distribution, I relied on Pivot Tables to analyze sales data across multiple locations, enabling me to extract meaningful insights from large datasets. This
helped identify trends and outliers, which informed strategic decisions such as inventory adjustments and promotional campaigns. My expertise in Excel
allowed me to deliver accurate and actionable reports in a timely manner.

6. Have you used Python for data analysis or automation tasks? Can you give an example?
Answer:
Yes, I have used Python for both data analysis and automation tasks. At Braun Research, I developed predictive models using Python and NumPy to
analyze election data, providing forecasts that supported decision-making. Additionally, I used Python to automate repetitive data validation processes,
which reduced manual effort and ensured data integrity. These experiences demonstrate my ability to leverage Python for improving data workflows and
generating valuable insights.

7. What experience do you have with Alteryx or similar data preparation tools?
Answer:
While I have not used Alteryx specifically, I have extensive experience in data preparation using SQL within Informatica. I cleansed and transformed
datasets by addressing null values, restructuring tables, and removing invalid data points. These skills are directly transferable to tools like Alteryx, as both
require a strong understanding of data blending, cleansing, and transformation processes. I am confident in my ability to quickly adapt to Alteryx or similar
tools.

8. How do you ensure your reports are actionable for stakeholders?

Answer:
To ensure reports are actionable, I focus on tailoring the presentation of data to the audience’s needs. For example, when creating Power BI dashboards or
Excel reports, I highlight key metrics that directly impact business decisions. I use clear visualizations and organize data logically, making it easy to
interpret. Additionally, I incorporate feedback from stakeholders during sprint reviews to refine the reports and ensure they address specific business goals.

9. How have you handled migrating data or working with large datasets?
Answer:
While I haven’t worked directly on a migration from Azure to Snowflake, I have experience working with large datasets in SQL and Informatica. At Braun
Research, I managed large volumes of data for political processes, ensuring they were clean and valid for analysis. My ability to write optimized SQL
queries and leverage tools for data processing has equipped me to handle similar migration or large dataset challenges effectively.

10. Can you explain a situation where you analyzed data and provided actionable insights that benefited the organization?
Answer:
At Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I analyzed sales and inventory data using SQL and Power BI. One insight I uncovered was that certain locations were
consistently overstocking low-demand products, tying up resources unnecessarily. I presented these findings to management using Power BI dashboards,
which led to changes in inventory management policies. This adjustment improved cash flow and reduced excess inventory costs across the organization.

11. How do you prioritize and balance tasks when working on multiple projects?
Answer:
I prioritize tasks based on their impact on business objectives and deadlines. I use tools like Jira and Confluence to track tasks, ensuring transparency and
organization. For example, while working at Braun Research, I balanced data cleansing, predictive modeling, and reporting tasks by setting clear priorities
for each sprint. Regular communication with stakeholders and team members ensured alignment and helped me manage multiple projects effectively
without compromising quality.

12. What steps do you take to learn and adapt to new tools or platforms, such as Snowflake or Alteryx?
Answer:
I approach learning new tools by leveraging online resources, tutorials, and documentation. For instance, when I needed to adapt to Informatica for data
cleansing tasks, I quickly familiarized myself with its functionalities through hands-on practice and collaboration with colleagues. If given the opportunity
to work with Snowflake or Alteryx, I would follow a similar approach, actively exploring their features and applying them to real-world scenarios to build
proficiency.

13. How have you worked with stakeholders to gather requirements for projects?
Answer:
At Braun Research, I regularly interacted with stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into actionable project requirements. I facilitated
discussions to clarify objectives, documented functional and non-functional requirements using tools like Jira and Confluence, and ensured alignment
across teams. For example, during a project to improve election result analysis, I gathered input from data scientists, project managers, and end-users,
ensuring the model outputs addressed their concerns and provided actionable insights.

14. Can you discuss your experience with creating automated reporting solutions?
Answer:
In my role at Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I automated sales and inventory reporting by integrating SQL queries with Power BI dashboards. These
automated dashboards updated in real time, reducing the manual effort required for weekly reporting. Similarly, at Braun Research, I used Python to create
scripts that streamlined data validation and ensured reports were generated promptly, with minimal manual intervention.

15. How do you approach cleaning and preparing data for analysis?
Answer:
My approach to data cleaning involves identifying and addressing inconsistencies, null values, and duplicates to ensure the dataset’s integrity. At Braun
Research, I used SQL within Informatica to clean datasets by omitting null values and restructuring tables. I also employed Python scripts to automate
validation checks and verify consistency across datasets, which improved data quality by 24%. This thorough process ensured that the insights derived
from the data were accurate and reliable.

16. Have you ever improved an inefficient workflow? What was your role?
Answer:
At Braun Research, I identified inefficiencies in how data was prepared for analysis, which involved repetitive manual tasks. I proposed automating parts
of the workflow using Python scripts, which reduced processing time by 30%. I also worked with the QA team to streamline functional testing processes
by suggesting better sprint tracking and iteration planning. These improvements enhanced team productivity and allowed for quicker delivery of insights.

17. How do you handle large datasets that may be challenging to process?
Answer:
When dealing with large datasets, I break down the task into manageable steps. For example, at Braun Research, I optimized SQL queries to process data
in batches, ensuring efficiency without overwhelming system resources. I also used Python’s Pandas library to manipulate and analyze large dataframes
effectively. These techniques allowed me to handle large datasets efficiently while maintaining accuracy.

18. Can you discuss a time you worked on a cross-functional team?

Answer:
While working at Braun Research, I collaborated with QA engineers, data scientists, and project managers on a predictive modeling project. My role
involved cleaning and preparing data using SQL, assisting QA with testing procedures, and working with developers to implement technical adjustments.
Regular communication and a collaborative approach ensured the project met deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
19. What visualization techniques do you use to make complex data more understandable?
Answer:
I use tools like Power BI and Tableau to create dashboards with interactive visualizations such as bar charts, scatter plots, and heatmaps to make data
insights accessible. For example, at Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I designed dashboards that allowed stakeholders to explore sales data trends across
locations using drill-down capabilities and dynamic filters. This approach ensured that both technical and non-technical audiences could derive value from
the reports.

20. How do you ensure data security and accuracy when working with sensitive information?
Answer:
To ensure data security, I adhere to best practices such as encrypting sensitive information and following organizational guidelines for data access. At
Braun Research, I worked with sensitive political data and ensured accuracy by implementing data validation scripts and carefully managing permissions.
By leveraging tools like Informatica and following a rigorous QA process, I minimized risks and maintained data integrity.

21. How would you approach learning Snowflake if you were hired?
Answer:
I would begin by exploring Snowflake’s official documentation and completing online tutorials or certifications to understand its unique features, such as
multi-cluster architecture and time travel. My strong foundation in SQL and experience with data warehousing tools like Informatica would help me
quickly adapt to Snowflake’s functionalities. I would also collaborate with team members to understand its role within the organization’s workflow and
apply it to real-world scenarios to reinforce my learning.

22. Can you discuss a time you delivered insights that impacted business decisions?
Answer:
At Pharaoh Vape and Distribution, I analyzed sales data to identify underperforming products at specific locations. Using Power BI, I presented insights
showing that certain products were consistently overstocked, leading to wasted resources. Based on my recommendations, management adjusted inventory
strategies, reducing excess stock and saving costs. This example highlights my ability to leverage data for impactful decision-making.

23. Have you ever worked with migration projects or data platform transitions?
Answer:
While I haven’t directly worked on a migration project like moving from Azure to Snowflake, I have experience transitioning datasets within Informatica.
For example, I prepared and migrated cleansed datasets for predictive modeling tasks, ensuring compatibility with analysis tools. My strong SQL skills and
adaptability position me well to support data migrations effectively.

24. How do you ensure your recommendations align with business goals?
Answer:
To ensure alignment, I engage with stakeholders to understand their objectives and challenges before beginning any analysis. For instance, at Braun
Research, I regularly coordinated with project managers and end-users to ensure the predictive models I developed addressed their specific needs. By
incorporating feedback throughout the project lifecycle, I delivered insights that directly supported organizational goals.

25. What is your approach to troubleshooting technical issues in a data analysis process?
Answer:
I follow a systematic approach to troubleshooting, starting with identifying the root cause of the issue. At Braun Research, when encountering
discrepancies in datasets, I used SQL queries to trace the problem back to its source, such as missing values or incorrect joins. I also collaborated with QA
and development teams to resolve technical issues, ensuring the analysis process was uninterrupted and accurate.

What are your strengths and weaknesses

come up with insights about what you could do there

what is the current project

what does the day to day and the team look like

describe a time when you faced difficulty with a group and how you fixed it

where do you see yourself in 5 years

hopefully a senior level analyst with knowledge and capabilty implementing ml and ai solutions

why this role and firm

because it heavy aligns with my skills and past experiences while also allowing me to start gaining valuable professional experience, and why the firm
chatgpt

tell me about your past data powerbi and snowflake projects

tell me about yourself

your knowledge from school and how you have been interning and trying to find my niche and master it, in my breaks I am upskilling and your projects at
your jobs

what can you add to korn ferry

questions based on what you have learned and revenue ideas and insights and common industry practices

tell me about a time when something in a project didn’t go well

data analysis techniques