Data Analytics for Business Decision Making

The assignment analyzes the application of data analytics in solving business problems, specifically focusing on Amistar product sales. It utilizes descriptive statistics to identify trends in market demand for Amistar in different regions like the USA and Japan. The analysis recommends strategies based on statistical insights, emphasizing the importance of decision support systems for effective business operations.

BUSINESS DECISION MAKING

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................3
TASK 1....................................................................................................................................................3
1.1 Collection of primary and secondary data......................................................................................3
1.2 Sampling methods and survey methodology..................................................................................4
1.3 Questionnaire for study..................................................................................................................5
TASK 2....................................................................................................................................................6
2.1 Computation of mean median and mode........................................................................................6
2.2 Analysis of results..........................................................................................................................7
2.3 Measures of dispersion...................................................................................................................8
2.4 Quartile, percentile and correlation coefficient...............................................................................8
TASK 3..................................................................................................................................................10
3.1 Produce graphs and draw conclusions..........................................................................................10
3.2 Trend analysis chart......................................................................................................................12
3.3 Covered in PPT............................................................................................................................13
3.4 Formal business report.................................................................................................................13
TASK 4..................................................................................................................................................14
4.1 Information processing tools........................................................................................................14
4.2 Network diagram..........................................................................................................................15
4.3 Project evaluation.........................................................................................................................16
CONCLUSION......................................................................................................................................17
REFERENCES.......................................................................................................................................19
Figure 1 Calculation of mean...................................................................................................................7
Figure 2 Calculation of median................................................................................................................7
Figure 3 Calculation of mode...................................................................................................................8
Figure 4 Formula of Skewness.................................................................................................................9
Figure 5Calculation of standard deviation..............................................................................................10
Figure 6 Charting on firm sales..............................................................................................................12
Figure 7 Charting on cost.......................................................................................................................12
Figure 8 Charting on profit.....................................................................................................................13
Figure 9 Sales trend analysis chart.........................................................................................................14
Figure 10 Trend analysis chart of profit.................................................................................................14
Figure 11 GANTT chart.........................................................................................................................17
Figure 12Network diagram.....................................................................................................................17

Figure 13 Payback period method..........................................................................................................18
Figure 14 Average rate of return............................................................................................................18
Figure 15 Net present value....................................................................................................................19
Figure 16 Internal rate of return.............................................................................................................19
Table 5 Calculation of quartile and percentile........................................................................................10

INTRODUCTION
In the current report detail research is carried out on the Amistar which is fungicide. In
this regard secondary and primary data is collected and analyzed in proper manner. Results of
the statistical tools are analyzed in proper manner and results are interpreted. In middle part of
the report trend analysis is done and comments are made on same. At end of the report,
information systems are explained in detail and network diagram is prepared. Along with this,
project evaluation methods are applied on cash flows and most profitable project is selected for
the firm.
TASK 1
1.1 Collection of primary and secondary data
Time to time business firm’s face many problems in their business. There are number
of factors due to which specific problem comes in existence. Thus, it is very important to
identify reason of the problem and solution of same. In this regard time to time business firms
conduct research. In order to conduct research study both sort of data are collected which are
primary and secondary data (Pardos and Kao, 2015). There is a vast difference between both
sorts of data. This is because one is collected by individual by making self efforts and other
one is collected by one from the books and journals. It is inevitable to gather both sorts of data.
This is because by doing so broad understanding about past and current time period can be
developed. In the present study primary data will be collected from the 50 people by
distributing questionnaire among them. Secondary data will be collected from the books and
journals. In this way entire study work will be carried out.
Particulars Date
Gathering data from books
and journals
20 to 22 January 2017
Analysis of facts and
figures
23 January 2017
Gathering data through
questionnaire
25 to 27 January 2017
Analysis of gathered data 28 to 30 January 2017

1.2 Sampling methods and survey methodology
In the present research sample of 50 respondents will be taken. Various types of
sampling methods are used by the researchers and application of each of them is different from
each other. Some specific sampling methods that can be used in the present study are as
follows.
 Simple random sampling: This method have specialty in comparison to other sampling
techniques. Under this method sample units are extracted from the population by the
researcher at his will (Palavitsinis, Protonotarios and Manouselis, 2011). Means that
one does not consider any parameter to frame sample for the research study. It can be
said it is very easy to prepare sample for the research by using this method.
 Stratified random sampling: This is one of the most important sampling methods
because in this some criteria’s are determined by the researcher. These criteria are used
to take sample units from the population. It can be said that this sampling method have
a significance for the researcher in the study where it is necessary to collect data from
different type of people. In the present study stratified sampling method will be used
because by doing so research can be conducted in proper manner by an individual.
 Cluster sampling: This is another method of sampling under which specific city is
classified in to various strata. From these strata units for entire sample are picked. This
method of sampling is used in the research projects which are carried out by the federal
entity.
 Convenience sampling: There is a high degree of similarity between simple random
sampling and convenience sampling (Kotorov, 2009). This is because in this method
one as per its facility takes sample unit from the group of people. Less number of
scholars used this method in research study.
1.3 Questionnaire for study
Age:
Gender:
1. People are well aware about Syngenta products?

 Yes
 No
2. Syngenta products are doing well in respect eliminating pest from plantations?
 Yes
 No
3. There are some factors to which consumer give due importance while purchasing a product.
Which of these factors highly influence your relevant decisions?
 Price
 Quality
 Other factors
4. Amistar that Syngenta launched in USA will achieve huge success in relevant market?
 Strongly agree
 Agree
 Somewhat agree
 Disagree
 Highly disagree
5. If price of Amistar will increase then you will shift to other product?
 Yes
 No
6 Amistar in terms of quality will be of excellent quality than alternative one.
 Strongly agree
 Agree
 Somewhat agree
 Disagree
 Highly disagree

TASK 2
2.1 Computation of mean median and mode
Figure 1 Calculation of mean
Figure 2 Calculation of median

Figure 3 Calculation of mode Mean: In the family of descriptive statistics mean is assumed one of the most important
members (Yoo and et.al., 2012). This is because it is the tool which indicates performance
that is observed in respect to variable most of times. Thus, better overview of the variable is
obtained on the basis of this tool. Better prediction about the variable can be made on the basis
of this tool when business conditions remain same in the upcoming time period. Hence, it can
be state that this tool speak lots of things about the variable
 Median: Other than mean median is also considered as important component of the descriptive
statistics. This is because it is the technique that split set of values in two parts. Better analysis
of variable is done by using median value. Comparison of the both divided parts is done and on
this basis trend that are in both data set is identified. Many times it is observed that there are
different trends in the data set in respect to the variable. By using median these varied trends
are identified by the managers and sound business decisions are made for benefit of an
organization.
 Mode: In order to identify the numbers which is appearing several times in group of values
mode is used by researcher (Chiang, Goes and Stohr, 2012). Thus, this method has
significance for the researcher.
2.2 Analysis of results
 Mean: Table reflects that values of mean expenditure by nations is 33.53 which state
that on average basis number of countries are making investment in Amistar nearby to
the mean value. It can be said that in current time period medium amount of investment
is made on the Amistar by the most of nations of the world.

 Median: Median value is 31.56 and this number divide above set of expenditure that is
made on Amistar by number of nations of the world. It is clear that most of nations of
the world are making investment in the Amistar above median value which is 31.56. it
can be said that less amount is spend on Amistar by the nations.
 Mode: Value of mode is 25.94 which indicate that large number of countries of the
world is making investment in Amistar equivalent to mentioned value.
Skewness: Skewness is the one of the most important concept that is used to check the
normality of the data set. Better prediction can be made only when data is normally distributed
(Jern, Brezzi and Lundblad, 2010). In the tools that come in the category of parametric test
skewness is used first of all. If data is found to be normally distributed than parametric test like
regression is applied on the data set. Formula that is used to compute skewness of data is given
below.
Figure 4 Formula of Skewness
(Source: Jern, Brezzi and Lundblad, 2010)
It is very important to measure normal distribution of data set. This is because if data will not
be in specific direction then it is not possible to make accurate and reliable prediction. Thus,
before applying advanced statistical tool it is very important to measure normality of data set.
If it is identified that data is normally distributed then only advanced tool like regression must
be applied on the data set. Thus, it can be said there is a huge importance of the skewness as a
statistical tool.

2.3 Measures of dispersion
Figure 5Calculation of standard deviation
It is the advanced tool which is commonly used by the research analysts in their
research practices (Stieglitz and Dang-Xuan, 2013). This tool indicates the distance that is
among average and current value of the variable. It is very important to identify the difference
that is between the average value and final value. The result of the standard deviation reflects
whether values of the variable are moving nearby to mean value or inn varied directions value
of the variable scattered. Thus, like mean standard deviation give better overview of the
variable. This is the reason due to which standard deviation is widely used by the researchers in
their practice. Standard deviation is widely used to perform complicated functions. It can be
said that there is a due importance of the standard deviation as a statistical tool. Increase or
decrease in the value of the variable indicates performance of the variable. Value of standard
deviation is only 18.14 which is less. This means that most of nations are making investment in
Amistar nearby to mean value.
2.4 Quartile, percentile and correlation coefficient
Table 1 Calculation of quartile and percentile
Type of
quartile
Formula Figures
Lower quartile (Q1)

Q1 Q1 = ∑F/4 200/4
50
Q1 = L1 + (∑F/4 – C)/F * i 12.4468085
Upper quartile (Q3)
Q3 q3 = 3(∑F/4) 3*(200/4)
150
Q3 = L1+ [3(∑F/4)-C/F]* i
31.2903226
Inter-
quartile
range
(Q3 - Q1) 18.8435141
Percentile
s
Quartiles
25th
percentile
Lower quartile (Q1) 12.4468085
75th
percentile
Upper quartile (Q1) 31.2903226
Quartile and percentile are same methods and only their algorithm varied from each
other. Value of Q1 or P1 is 12 and same of Q3 or P3 is 31. It can be said that there is a
difference in the values of the variable. This difference in values of both quartile reflect that at
different levels varied nations of the world are making investment in Amistar. Correlation is
another important method that is used to find out relationship between two variables (Medler
and Magerko, 2011). Positive correlation value lie in range of 0 to 1 which reflects that both
variables move in particular direction. Negative correlation value remain in range of 0 to -1
which mean that both variables are moving in inverse direction. Business can apply this
concept to improve its performance by exploring relationship between its cost and profit. On
the basis of output of correlation suitable business strategy can be formulated to improve firm
performance.

TASK 3
3.1 Produce graphs and draw conclusions
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
Sales (£’m)
Sales (£’m)
Figure 6 Charting on firm sales
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Cost (£’m)
Cost (£’m)
Figure 7 Charting on cost

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
Profit (£’m)
Profit (£’m)
Figure 8 Charting on profit
Interpretation
Charts that can be seen above clearly reflect that with passage of time period Amistar
sales increased in the Japanese market. Not only sales but profit also elevate at rapid pace in
the mentioned market. Cost keeps on fluctuating consistently in the Japanese market. Thus, it
can be said that in the Japan market currently sales and profit are increasing at rapid pace in
comparison to earlier years. This means that in upcoming time period in the mentioned nation
sales and profit of the Amistar will increase at rapid pace. This is the positive sign for the
Syngenta and it can launch its product in the Japan market. As this market have lot of growth
potential. This is the time when opportunity that reign in the growing market can be capitalized
by the market. Hence, Syngenta must make heavy investment in the Japanese market. If
investment will be made in this stage then firm will be able to capture large market share in the
mentioned market. Hence, it can be said that there are ample opportunity in the relevant
market.

3.2 Trend analysis chart
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
f(x) = 14.9090909090909 x + 380
Sales (£’m)
Sales (£’m)
Linear (Sales (£’m))
Figure 9 Sales trend analysis chart
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
f(x) = 13.6363636363636 x + 150
Profit (£’m)
Profit (£’m)
Linear (Profit (£’m))
Figure 10 Trend analysis chart of profit
Interpretation
Chart that is given above reflects that sales and profit are increasing at rapid pace.
Supernormal profit is observed in the last year. Sudden upward movement is seen in sales in
the current fiscal year. This trend is unusual in comparison to the previous years. Hence, trend
line is increasing upward but it does not cross last year sales and profit values. Hence, it is

predicted that like current year in upcoming time period very higher amount of sales and profit
will not be earned in the Japanese market. Still Japanese market is lucrative for the Syngenta.
Hence, investment must be made in the mentioned nation. Apart from trend analysis method
firm can use other method to make better and reliable prediction about the sales and profit that
can be made and earned in the Japan market. Simulation techniques can be used to make more
reliable prediction. It can be said that there are lots of scope for the business firm in Japan
market.
Time series analysis is the one of most important forecasting method. There are two
methods of conducting time series analysis namely moving average and decomposition
(Bijmolt and et.al., 2010). In the moving average lag of the specific time period is prepared and
prediction is made in respect to variable. On other hand, in case of decomposition separate
charts are prepared for variable on seasonal and trend factor prediction for future is made.
Hence, it can be said that there are different methods of time series analysis that can be used to
make prediction.
3.3 Covered in PPT
3.4 Formal business report
To
The Board of Directors of Syngenta Date: 6 th January
2016
Subject: Evaluation of USA market
Honorable members
Introduction
Current research study is conducted to identify the extent to which people are familiar with the
name of Amistar and Syngenta and perception that they have about former one. An attempt is
made to identify the opportunity that is in the USA market. In this regard data is collected and
analyzed by using statistical tools. In this way research is conducted.
Research methodology
In the current research sample of 50 respondents is taken and questionnaire is distributed
among the respondents. Descriptive statistics tools are applied on the data set and investment

that is made by varied nations on average basis is identified.
Data analysis
On analysis of data it is identified that there is a huge opportunity in the USA and Japan
market. People are aware about Syngenta in USA market. Firm will be able to launch its
product successfully in the relevant market. In current time period also moderate amount of
investment is made by the most of nations of the world. With passage of time period demand
for Amistar will increase in the market as revealed by the data set.
Conclusion
It is concluded that Syngenta must make investment in Amistar. By doing so it can earn huge
profit in the business.
TASK 4
4.1 Information processing tools
 Management information system: Mentioned information system is used by the
managers that make day to day business decisions at ground level in respect to business
firm. In this system facts are stored and processed to obtain concise and useful
information (Alvaro and et.al., 2010). This information is used to make business
decisions.
 DSS: This information system is used to make tactical decisions by the top managers.
By using this information system in uncertain business decisions also strong decisions
are taken by the managers. Thus, this information system is widely used by the
managers in firms.
 Transaction processing system: In this system daily expenses are recorded and
processed to generate a report. Expenses curb related decisions are taken on the basis of
report generated by TPS.

4.2 Network diagram
Figure 11 GANTT chart
Figure 12Network diagram
Interpretation
It is one of the most important methods because it reflects that path that an organization
must follow in order to complete project at minimum cost (Nabati and et.al., 2013). It can be
seen from the chart that critical path for the project is 1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8+9. Means that
project can be completed in 515 days. Only 10th and 11th activity can be delayed. Apart from
this if other tasks will be delayed then project cost will increase.

4.3 Project evaluation
Figure 13 Payback period method
Interpretation
This method is used to find out duration that will be taken by the project to cover cost.
In case of project A and B cost can be covered in three years (Davis and Shiland, 2015). Thus,
specific alternative cannot be picked for the business firm.
Figure 14 Average rate of return
Interpretation
Above mentioned method reveal mean return that can be gained on the project. On
project A return of 27% can be earned and on other one same of 22% can be gained. Project A
is profitable for the company.

Figure 15 Net present value
Interpretation
NPV reflects the present value of the project after considering initial investment (Net
present value, 2016). It can be seen from the table that NPV of project A is positive and same
of other project is negative. Hence, project A relative other one is profitable for the firm.
Figure 16 Internal rate of return
Interpretation
IRR reflects real return that can be earned on the project if investment is made. IRR of project
A is 10% and same of other one is 2%. Hence, project A is profitable for the firm. On the basis of
overall results it is concluded that project A must be selected by the firm.

CONCLUSION
On the basis of above discussion it is concluded that statistics is the discipline that must
be used by the managers to identify root cause of the business problem and solution of same.
On the basis of results of the descriptive statistics it is concluded that demand for Amistar is
growing in the USA market. Japan is the growing market for the Amistar. Hence, firm must
start selling product in the mentioned market. Decision support system is the one of the most
important tool and due to this reason it must be used by all sorts of organizations at the
workplace.

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