BIDA Purpose and Principles

We are the main provider of data visualisations, information storytelling and analysis to support question-led, evidence-based strategic decision making.

The focus is on business intelligence and data analytics, and do not typically produce management information and operational reporting.

Our remit permits working across and in partnership with all thematic and functional areas, guided by institutional BI priorities

We use and support the creation of standard University datasets which provide single versions of the truth to enable system integration and accurate, consistent and timely reporting.

Where possible we streamline and automate routine tasks in high risk areas such as compliance, both within the service and providing guidance and support to do so across the University.

We use the best tool for the task at hand (where benefits give high value for money) and will keep abreast/ahead of technology norms in the sector.

We establish clear service levels and adopt development and documentation practices which are open and transparent.

We focus on empowering end-users with confidence and trust in our outputs, and understanding their needs by “stepping into their shoes”.

We are integrated into/allied with decision-making structures as appropriate in order to ensure we can support institutional strategic processes.

Partnering with subject matter experts and other analysts, we develop and sustain an analysis ‘how to’ community of practice and an information sharing ‘what to do now’ forum.

We will evolve our team culture, practices and norms over time to allow and enable the agility required to fulfil our remit.

We will aspire to lead the sector in our business intelligence service development and delivery capability