International Journal of Knowledge Content Development & Technology
[ Article ]
International Journal of Knowledge Content Development & Technology - Vol. 14, No. 3, pp.77-91
ISSN: 2234-0068 (Print) 2287-187X (Online)
Print publication date 30 Sep 2024
Received 19 Sep 2023 Revised 13 Feb 2024 Accepted 01 May 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5865/IJKCT.2024.14.3.077

Unlocking Digital Transformation: The Pivotal Role of Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Strategies

Edwin Omol* ; Lucy Mburu** ; Paul Abuonji***
*Lecturer, Department of Computing and Informatics, Kenya Highlands University P. O. Box 123 - 20200 Kericho, Kenya omoledwin@gmail.com
**Senior Lecturer & CoD, Department of Networks and Applied Computing (NAC), School of Technology, KCA University P. O. Box 56808 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya lmburu@kcau.ac.ke
***Head of ICT, KCA University P. O. Box 56808 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya pabuonji@kcau.ac.ke

Abstract

This article aims to comprehensively analyze the crucial role played by data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies in propelling digital transformation within diverse industries. Through an extensive literature review and examination of real-world case studies, the study employs a systematic analysis of scholarly works and industry reports. This approach provides a panoramic view of how organizations utilize data-driven insights for competitive advantages, improved customer experiences, and fostering innovation. The findings underscore the pivotal significance of data analytics and BI strategies in influencing strategic decision-making, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring long-term sustainability across various industries. The study stands out in its originality by offering a unique synthesis of insights derived from scholarly works and real-world case studies, contributing to a holistic understanding of the transformative impact of data analytics and BI on contemporary business practices. While the study provides valuable insights, limitations include the scope of available literature and case studies. The implications call for further research to explore emerging trends and evolving challenges in the dynamic landscape of data analytics and BI. The practical implications highlight the tangible benefits organizations can derive from integrating data analytics and BI strategies, emphasizing their role in shaping strategic decisions and fostering operational efficiency. In a broader context, the study delves into the social implications of the symbiotic relationship between data analytics, BI, and digital transformation. It explores how these strategies impact broader societal and economic aspects, influencing innovation and sustainability.

Keywords:

Digital Transformation, Data Analytics, Business Intelligence, Operational Efficiency, Strategic Decision-Making, Innovation

1. Introduction

Data analytics, a spectrum of techniques for extracting insights from vast and complex datasets, empowers organizations to derive actionable intelligence that informs decision-making and strategic initiatives. Scholars such as Davenport (2018) highlight that data analytics unlocks the potential to uncover hidden patterns, trends, and correlations, enabling organizations to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and innovate business models. This transformative power is further emphasized by Yangzom and Ahuja (2023), who stress that data analytics facilitates predictive modeling and real-time analysis, offering organizations the agility to adapt to rapidly changing market dynamics. As industries increasingly recognize the significance of data analytics, it emerges as a fundamental driver of digital transformation, propelling organizations towards competitiveness and sustainability in the digital age.

Business intelligence, is a range of tools, technologies, and practices that transform raw data into valuable insights, facilitating informed decision-making at various organizational levels (Omol et al., 2023). As emphasized by Nguyen and Mogaji (2023), BI strategies empower stakeholders with intuitive dashboards and interactive visualizations, democratizing access to critical information and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making. This democratization not only enhances organizational agility by enabling timely responses to market changes but also supports innovation and strategic adaptation, making BI a cornerstone of successful digital transformation. Through BI’s ability to synthesize and present complex data in user-friendly formats, organizations are better equipped to optimize processes, harness opportunities, and navigate challenges in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

In the contemporary landscape of rapidly evolving technologies, the concept of digital transformation has emerged as a critical strategy for organizations to stay competitive and relevant across industries (Davenport, 2018; Omol et al., 2023). At the heart of this transformative journey lies the integration of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies, which are increasingly recognized as instrumental in driving and shaping the course of digital transformation endeavors (Wauyo et al., 2017; Omol et al., 2017; Rud, 2009). As businesses seek to harness the power of data to optimize operations, enhance decision-making, and deliver unparalleled customer experiences, the symbiotic relationship between data analytics, BI, and digital transformation emerges as a cornerstone for sustainable success in the digital age.

In the face of rapid technological advancements, data has emerged as a valuable asset that organizations can leverage to gain a competitive edge (Omol & Ondiek, 2021). Data analytics, encompassing a range of techniques for extracting insights from data, enables organizations to derive meaningful and actionable intelligence from their vast repositories of information (Davenport, 2018). Business intelligence, on the other hand, focuses on the process of transforming raw data into valuable insights through tools, technologies, and practices that facilitate decision-making at various organizational levels (Omol, 2023). The convergence of these two fields holds immense potential for driving digital transformation across diverse industries, empowering organizations to navigate challenges, exploit opportunities, and reshape their business models.

Against the backdrop of this evolution, digital transformation has emerged as an all-inclusive process that transcends industry boundaries, demanding the reimagining of traditional business models and practices. Organizations are increasingly leveraging data analytics and BI to fuel this transformation, driving innovation, optimizing processes, and enhancing customer experiences (Wauyo et al., 2017). Through an exploration of the mechanisms that underpin these strategies, this article aims to unravel the transformative impact they have on various sectors, illuminating both the challenges and opportunities that arise in the wake of their integration.

As industries continue to evolve in an era of rapid technological advancement, the symbiotic relationship between data analytics, BI, and digital transformation stands as a critical facet of organizational success. Through this analysis, we seek to contribute to the understanding of how data-driven strategies are reshaping the landscape of modern business, propelling industries toward a future characterized by agility, innovation, and sustainable growth.


2. Review Methodology

This study adopted a systematic literature review methodology (Moher et al., 2009; Omol et al., 2023; Onyango, 2022; Omol et al., 2017a) to comprehensively examine the existing literature on the role of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies in steering digital transformation across industries. Following a systematic approach, the review systematically identified, compiled, and evaluated relevant literature published between 2009 and 2023. The employed methodology, consistent and transparent in its application, ensures the credibility of results. A coding framework was developed to categorize information sources, methodologies, and relevant data extracted from the literature. The methodological process encompassed the identification, selection, and synthesis of pertinent literature, aiming to provide a thorough understanding of the research topic, as illustrated in Fig. 1 below.

Fig. 1.

Systematic Review MethodologySource: Authors’ Elaboration

  • (1) Research Question Formulation: The systematic review began with the formulation of a clear and focused research question: “What is the impact of data analytics and business intelligence strategies on driving digital transformation across diverse industries?” This research question guided the entire review process, ensuring a structured approach to gathering and analyzing relevant literature.
  • (2) Literature Search: A wide-ranging search strategy was designed to identify relevant scholarly articles, reports, case studies, and peer-reviewed sources. Databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically queried using controlled vocabulary and relevant keywords, including terms related to data analytics, business intelligence, digital transformation, industries, and organizational impact.
  • (3) Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria: Articles were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria included studies published from 2009 to 2023, written in English, and focused on the impact of data analytics and BI strategies on digital transformation across industries. Exclusion criteria involved non-peer-reviewed sources, articles not directly addressing the research question, and those lacking empirical data or clear relevance to the topic.
  • (4) Data Extraction and Analysis: Data extraction involved systematically extracting relevant information from selected articles, including study objectives, methodologies, key findings, and implications. A data extraction form was developed to ensure consistency and capture essential details across studies. The extracted data were synthesized and analyzed using thematic analysis, identifying recurring patterns, trends, challenges, and opportunities related to the impact of data analytics and BI strategies on digital transformation.

3. Literature Review

The origin of business intelligence (BI) can be traced back to the 1950s when the concept emerged as a response to the increasing need for data-driven decision-making within organizations. Initially, BI focused on the integration of data from diverse sources to provide insights for strategic planning and operational management. Over the years, the evolution of BI has been shaped by advancements in technology, data storage, and analytical methods (Wauyo et al., 2017; Omol et al., 2021). As noted by Nguyen and Mogaji (2023), the modern BI landscape encompasses a wide array of tools, ranging from traditional reporting systems to sophisticated analytics platforms, capable of processing large volumes of data in real-time. This evolution reflects the growing recognition of BI’s pivotal role in driving digital transformation across industries, enabling organizations to harness data-driven insights for enhancing operational efficiency, fostering innovation, and guiding strategic adaptation in the digital era. The importance of Business Intelligence can be summarized as depicted in Fig. 2 below.

Fig. 2.

The Capabilities of Business IntelligenceSource: Team (2023)

The origin of data analytics can be traced back to the early days of computer science and statistics, with roots extending to the mid-20th century. Data analytics emerged as a means to process and derive meaning from vast datasets, primarily driven by the increasing availability of computing power and data storage capabilities. Early pioneers like Florence Nightingale and William Playfair laid the groundwork for visualizing and analyzing data, while advancements in statistical methods and algorithms contributed to the evolution of data analytics (Yangzom & Ahuja, 2023; Omol et al., 2024). As highlighted by Davenport (2018), the digital revolution accelerated the field’s growth, with the emergence of big data and advanced analytical techniques, including machine learning and artificial intelligence. This historical progression underscores the pivotal role of data analytics in modern times, where its application spans industries, guiding digital transformation by uncovering valuable insights, predicting trends, and driving informed decision-making across diverse sectors.

Fundamentally, data analytics revolves around the process of responding to inquiries and reaching conclusions. Just as inquiries can vary, the forms of data analytics diverge as well, contingent on the intended objectives. Illustrated in Fig. 3 below are the principal categories of data analytics, numbering four.

Fig. 3.

Types of Data AnalyticsSource: Co-Learner (2022)

The confluence of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies has emerged as a transformative force driving digital transformation across industries. Scholarly works and industry reports underscore the critical role of these twin pillars in reshaping business landscapes, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. Ammanath (2022) emphasizes that data analytics serves as the bedrock for informed decision-making, enabling organizations to extract actionable insights from vast datasets and align strategies with dynamic market shifts. Similarly, the study by Nguyen and Mogaji (2023) highlights BI’s significance in facilitating real-time data visualization and analytics-driven reporting, equipping stakeholders with actionable intelligence to drive strategic choices.

Researchers and practitioners alike have highlighted the transformative potential of data analytics in harnessing valuable insights from vast datasets. Almazmomi et al. (2022) emphasize the strategic significance of analytics, stating that organizations capable of effectively utilizing data for decision-making gain a competitive edge by anticipating market shifts and customer preferences. This notion echoes through the works of Yang et al. (2023), who stress that data-driven insights empower companies to optimize processes, enhance customer experiences, and innovate products and services.

The integration of BI strategies emerges as a pivotal bridge between raw data and actionable insights, enabling organizations to visualize trends and patterns that drive strategic decisions. Kharakhash (2023) emphasize the multifaceted role of BI tools, highlighting their ability to transform raw data into actionable intelligence, empowering stakeholders at various organizational levels to make informed decisions. Moreover, the literature suggests that BI fosters a culture of data-driven decision-making, promoting agility and adaptability within organizations (Horani et al., 2023). The work of Ragazou et al. (2023) underscores that BI facilitates enhanced operational efficiency and proactive problem-solving through real-time monitoring and predictive analytics.

Across diverse industries, data analytics and BI synergize to enable digital transformation, enhancing organizational agility and competitiveness. In the healthcare sector, researchers like Dolezel and McLeod (2019) underline how data-driven insights aid in patient diagnosis, treatment, and personalized care delivery. Likewise, in manufacturing, the integration of real-time data analytics and BI tools optimizes production processes, reduces downtime, and supports predictive maintenance (Bi et al., 2023). In finance, the work of Shao et al. (2022) demonstrates the use of data analytics for fraud detection, risk assessment, and improved customer engagement. These studies collectively underline the pivotal role of data analytics and BI in propelling digital transformation across industries, showcasing their capacity to revolutionize operational models, enhance customer experiences, and drive strategic innovation.

The literature is replete with examples of industries leveraging data analytics and BI to achieve transformative outcomes. In the healthcare sector, for instance, Bhardwaj et al. (2019) showcase how predictive analytics and BI tools enable personalized patient care by analyzing historical data, accelerating diagnoses, and tailoring treatment plans. Furthermore, in the manufacturing domain, data analytics integrated with BI systems streamline production processes, as noted by Patil et al. (2023), who found that data-driven insights improve resource allocation, reduce downtime, and optimize supply chain management. Such cases emphasize the multidimensional impact of data analytics and BI in optimizing resource allocation and strategic decision-making across sectors.

A recurrent theme across the literature is the notion of data-driven innovation. Miller and Fang (2023) discuss how the strategic use of data analytics and BI drives innovation in business models and customer engagement, allowing organizations to tailor offerings to ever-evolving consumer preferences. Additionally, the work of Foltean et al. (2022) underscores the role of BI in promoting agility through data-driven insights, enabling organizations to rapidly adapt to market fluctuations and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Together, these findings underscore the transformative potential of data analytics and BI in fostering innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and steering organizations toward a future characterized by sustained growth and adaptability.


4. Findings

The presented Table 1 encapsulates key findings derived from an extensive exploration of the transformative impact of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies on various facets of industries undergoing digital transformation.

Summery of findings

The examination of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies in the context of driving digital transformation across industries reveals compelling insights into their transformative power and multifaceted impact. Through an in-depth exploration of various sectors, it becomes evident that the integration of data-driven approaches has led to remarkable advancements in operational efficiency, strategic decision-making, and customer experiences.

Firstly, the findings highlight that data analytics serves as a linchpin for optimizing processes and fostering innovation. Across industries, organizations leverage data-driven insights to identify inefficiencies, streamline workflows, and implement agile strategies that adapt to evolving market conditions. For instance, manufacturing enterprises integrate data analytics to predict equipment maintenance needs, thereby reducing downtime and enhancing production efficiency (Bi et al., 2023). This dynamic approach not only minimizes costs but also positions companies to proactively address challenges, driving continuous improvement and sustainable growth.

Secondly, business intelligence emerges as a cornerstone for enhancing decision-making precision and organizational agility. The integration of BI tools empowers stakeholders with intuitive dashboards, real-time visualizations, and self-service analytics, democratizing access to actionable insights (Kharakhash, 2023; Masakala et al., 2017). This democratization enables faster, data-driven decision-making across departments and hierarchical levels, thereby enabling organizations to respond swiftly to market shifts and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The study of various industries underscores how BI’s role in cultivating a data-driven culture contributes to a proactive and adaptive mindset, essential for thriving in the digital landscape.

Furthermore, the synthesis of data analytics and BI strategies drives a customer-centric paradigm shift across industries. Organizations employ data-driven insights to understand consumer behaviors, preferences, and pain points, enabling them to tailor products and services to meet individual needs (Yangzom & Ahuja, 2023; Omol et al., 2016). This personalization enhances customer experiences, fosters brand loyalty, and engenders lasting relationships. In sectors like healthcare, data analytics facilitates personalized treatment plans and predictive diagnostics, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and well-being (Dolezel & McLeod, 2019).

In conclusion, the findings underscore the pivotal role of data analytics and BI strategies in catalyzing digital transformation across diverse industries. The integration of these technologies fosters operational optimization, data-driven decision-making, and customer-centric innovation. As organizations continue to navigate the digital landscape, harnessing the synergies between data analytics and BI emerges as a critical determinant of success, enabling them to navigate complexity, remain agile, and unlock sustainable competitive advantages


5. Discussion

The synthesis of data analytics and business intelligence (BI) strategies has emerged as a pivotal catalyst in propelling digital transformation across diverse industries. This discussion critically examines the nuanced dynamics, challenges, and transformative implications that characterize the integration of data-driven approaches in the context of digital transformation.

One notable challenge that organizations encounter when implementing data analytics and BI strategies is the intricate process of data governance and management (Omol et al., 2023a). The success of these strategies’ hinges on the availability of accurate, timely, and reliable data, necessitating a robust framework for data collection, integration, and quality assurance (Yangzom & Ahuja, 2023; Omol et al., 2024a). As organizations grapple with diverse data sources and formats, ensuring data integrity becomes a critical concern. Additionally, the rapid growth of data volumes necessitates robust storage and management solutions that can accommodate the influx of information from various sources (Nguyen & Mogaji, 2023; Ragazou et al., 2023; Omol et al., 2024). Moreover, the evolving landscape of data privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), underscores the imperative for organizations to ensure compliance while harnessing the power of data-driven insights (Geradin et al., 2021).

Talent acquisition and upskilling represent another critical facet within the realm of data analytics and BI strategies. The shortage of skilled data professionals capable of deciphering complex datasets and deriving actionable insights poses a significant hurdle (Davenport, 2018). The shortage of skilled data professionals capable of translating complex data into actionable insights remains a pressing challenge (Bonesso et al., 2020). Organizations must prioritize training and development programs to equip their workforce with the analytical and technical skills necessary for leveraging these technologies. As data-driven decision-making permeates organizational culture, data literacy becomes a vital competency across departments (Geradin et al., 2021). Addressing this challenge requires a concerted effort to cultivate a data-literate workforce through training and development programs, enabling employees to leverage data analytics and BI tools effectively (Omol et al., 2023).

The integration of data analytics and BI strategies is not only redefining operational processes but also fostering innovation across industries. By harnessing the power of data insights, organizations are better positioned to identify emerging trends, consumer behaviors, and market gaps (Yangzom & Ahuja, 2023, Wauyo at al., 2017). This data-driven innovation ethos paves the way for novel product offerings, enhanced customer experiences, and disruptive business models. Organizations that embrace this approach capitalize on the agility required to remain competitive in the dynamic digital landscape. Furthermore, the transformative potential of data analytics and BI strategies manifests in their capacity to drive innovation and reshape traditional business models. Organizations that harness data-driven insights gain a competitive edge by identifying emerging trends, anticipating market shifts, and enhancing customer experiences (Kharakhash, 2023). The integration of BI tools empowers decision-makers across hierarchies with real-time dashboards and self-service analytics, promoting agility and responsiveness in decision-making (Nguyen & Mogaji, 2023; Ragazou et al., 2023).

As industries progress, the future implications of the synergy between data analytics, BI, and digital transformation become even more significant. Technological advancements promise more sophisticated analytics capabilities, enabling organizations to derive deeper insights and enhance predictive modeling. Additionally, ethical considerations surrounding data usage and privacy will guide organizations toward responsible practices that build trust with stakeholders (Bi et al., 2023). In conclusion, the analysis of data analytics and BI strategies in driving digital transformation underscores their integral role in shaping the trajectory of modern industries. While challenges related to data governance and talent acquisition persist, the opportunities presented by data-driven decision-making and innovation are transformative. By leveraging data analytics and BI strategies, organizations forge a path toward a future where data-centric practices and adaptive strategies define success in the digital realm.


6. Conclusion

In culmination, the comprehensive analysis of data analytics and business intelligence strategies in propelling digital transformation across industries has yielded insightful findings that underscore their profound impact on organizational evolution. The examination of various sectors revealed that these strategies play a pivotal role in optimizing processes, fostering innovation, and enhancing customer experiences. The integration of data-driven insights empowers organizations to make informed decisions, respond adeptly to market dynamics, and cultivate a culture of data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the symbiotic relationship between data analytics and BI, accentuating their combined potential to drive operational efficiency, strategic agility, and transformative growth in the digital age.

However, amidst the evident benefits lie multifaceted challenges that demand attention for the successful implementation of data analytics and BI strategies. Ensuring data quality, privacy, and security remain pivotal concerns, necessitating robust governance frameworks and adherence to evolving regulations. Additionally, bridging the skills gap through talent acquisition and upskilling initiatives becomes imperative to fully leverage the potential of these technologies. Organizations must cultivate a workforce well-versed in data literacy and analytical proficiency to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets.

To pave the way for future investigations, several recommendations emerge. First, longitudinal studies tracking the evolution of organizations as they adopt and mature their data analytics and BI strategies could provide insights into long-term impacts and trends. Second, in-depth sector-specific analyses could shed light on nuanced challenges and opportunities unique to each industry. Third, exploring ethical considerations and responsible data usage practices within the context of digital transformation could guide organizations in navigating the ethical landscape of data-driven decision-making. In conclusion, as industries continue to embark on digital transformation journeys, the integration of data analytics and BI strategies emerges as a cornerstone, fostering innovation, and driving organizational success in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

6.1 Study’s Implications

The study’s implications are multifaceted, yielding valuable insights across key dimensions. Firstly, in terms of operational enhancement and innovation, the integration of data analytics proves pivotal in optimizing processes and fostering innovation across diverse industries. Notably, this approach is underscored by examples such as predictive maintenance in manufacturing, reducing downtime and enabling continuous improvement (Bi et al., 2023). Additionally, leveraging data-driven insights facilitates agile strategies and cost minimization (Dolezel & McLeod, 2019).

Secondly, the study emphasizes the significance of strategic decision-making and organizational agility through the application of business intelligence tools. The empowerment of stakeholders with intuitive dashboards and democratized access to actionable insights, as discussed by Kharakhash (2023), facilitates swift and data-driven decision-making, thereby enhancing organizational agility to respond adeptly to market shifts and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Thirdly, the implications extend to a customer-centric paradigm shift driven by the integration of data analytics and BI. This transformative approach enables organizations to personalize products and services based on consumer behaviors, leading to improved customer experiences, heightened brand loyalty, and the cultivation of lasting relationships. In particular, the study highlights healthcare as a sector where data analytics facilitates personalized treatment plans and predictive diagnostics, ultimately contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and well-being (Dolezel & McLeod, 2019; Omol, 2023; Omol et al., 2024b).

The study’s findings underscore the broader implications for operational optimization, data-driven decision-making, and customer-centric innovation across diverse industries. These implications serve as valuable guideposts for organizations navigating the digital landscape, emphasizing the critical role of harnessing synergies between data analytics and BI for sustainable competitive advantages.

6.2 Recommendations for future studies

Future research directions in the realm of data analytics, business intelligence (BI), and digital transformation include exploring the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning on enhancing existing BI tools. Ethical considerations regarding data-driven decision-making, privacy, and responsible data use should be a focal point for investigation. Longitudinal studies tracking the sustained impact of data analytics and BI on organizational performance can provide insights into long-term sustainability and competitiveness. Research should also focus on enhancing personalization strategies by leveraging emerging technologies and addressing challenges associated with evolving consumer expectations. Comparative studies across industries and regions will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of contextual factors influencing the implementation and outcomes of data analytics and BI strategies, aiding both academia and practitioners in navigating the evolving landscape of data-driven transformations.

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to the researchers, scholars, and authors whose work we have referenced in this paper.

Conflict of interest

The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

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[About the authors]

Edwin Omol, is a Lecturer at Kenya Highlands University and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Information Systems within the Department of Networks and Applied Computing (NAC) at the School of Technology, KCA University and holds Masters of Science in Information Systems and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. He is a dedicated researcher with a passion for the field of Digital Transformation technologies. His current research is focused on the development of Digital Maturity Models customized for application in both SMEs and larger organizations. Edwin‘s academic interests extend to advanced models rooted in deep learning, with a strong emphasis on areas such as Business Intelligence, Artificial Intelligence, and data analytics.

Lucy Mburu, is Senior Lecturer and serves as the Chair of the Department of Networks and Applied Computing (NAC) within the School of Technology at KCA University. Her doctoral research was conducted at the Chair of GIScience, Heidelberg University in Germany, where she was awarded a Deutscher Academischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD) scholarship. Her research focused on the analysis of Geographic Information for understanding and predicting risk patterns. Dr. Mburu completed her Master’s degree in Computer-based Information Systems at the University of Sunderland in the UK, supported by the Commonwealth scholarship fund. Her research in this program was centered on usability in the context of improving the human-computer interface for medical prescription systems.

Paul Abuonji, currently serves as the Head of ICT at KCA University, spearheading a strategic digital transformation agenda to enhance service delivery, reduce costs, and optimize business processes. His extensive academic background includes a PhD in Information Technology Security and Audit, a Master’s in Information Technology Security and Audit, an MBA in Strategic Management, and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science. Prior roles include being the Associate Director of ICT and Lecturer at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, where he led ICT security initiatives and managed ERP system implementation. Additionally, he held positions at Great Lakes University of Kisumu as a Lecturer and Head of the Department of Information Technology, making significant contributions to curriculum development and department establishment. His latest technological achievement is the creation and implementation of the innovative “Stratified Cyber Security Vigilance (SCSV) Model“ for securing ICT infrastructure.

Fig. 1.

Fig. 1.
Systematic Review MethodologySource: Authors’ Elaboration

Fig. 2.

Fig. 2.
The Capabilities of Business IntelligenceSource: Team (2023)

Fig. 3.

Fig. 3.
Types of Data AnalyticsSource: Co-Learner (2022)

Table1.

Summery of findings

Aspects Key Findings
(1) Operational Efficiency and Innovation ▹Data analytics acts as a linchpin for optimizing processes and fostering innovation, this is supported by the argument of Bi et al. (2023) that predictive maintenance in manufacturing reduces downtime and facilitates continuous improvement (Bi et al., 2023) and Dolezel & McLeod, (2019)’s that organizations leverage data-driven insights for agile strategies and cost minimization.
(2) Strategic Decision-Making and Organizational Agility ▹Business intelligence empowers stakeholders with intuitive dashboards, democratizing access to actionable insights. Democratization facilitates swift, data-driven decision-making for organizational agility. (Kharakhash, 2023).
(3) Customer-Centric Paradigm Shift ▹Integration of data analytics and BI drives a paradigm shift towards a customer-centric approach. Personalization of products and services based on consumer behaviors. In healthcare, data analytics enables personalized treatment plans and predictive diagnostics (Dolezel & McLeod, 2019).