Skip to content

Business Analytics Subject Spotlight

Data, Decisions and Design: Mastering Business Analytics
with James-Bond Simmons from the University of Salford

Try this university course before you apply - 100% free!

Watch a sample episode now

In this insightful Subject Spotlight, James Bond-Simmons explores what it means to be a Business Analyst in today’s digital age. In episode one, James introduces the role of a Business Analyst, breaking down their position in the business environment and how they interact with stakeholders. In episode two, James uncovers the power of data. You’ll be introduced to data analysis and data visualisation, as well as their role in business analytics. James also explores the different ways in which organisations use data, including some you may not already be familiar with. In episode three, you’ll get to grips with some more key components of business analytics - project management, change management and design thinking. You’ll discover their individual importance and how they work together to ensure success in business analytics. Finally, in episode four, James challenges you to think like a Business Analyst with a real-life scenario activity. When you’re finished, he’ll provide you with some feedback and final advice. 

James Bond-SimmonsUniversity of SalfordBusiness and management studies

All episodes
1. The business analyst
2. Data-driven decision making
3. Key components of Business Analytics
4. Activity: think like a Business Analyst

About the university


University of Salford
University of Salford
University of Salford

The University of Salford pioneers exceptional industry partnerships, prepares students for life, and has a global community of over 170,000 alumni. Salford is an ambitious, thriving university and there are countless reasons why students choose to study there. Whether it’s the award-winning academics, warm and welcoming campus, state-of-the-art facilities, or fantastic location in the city of Salford with Manchester’s vibrant city centre on the doorstep. Whatever the reason for joining, students become part of a community with access to the support and opportunities they need to achieve their ambitions.

University of Salford profile →
Meet the academic
James Bond-Simmons

James Bond-Simmons is a Lecturer in Business Analytics  with over a decade of experience in business data analytics, in a range of roles. Throughout his career, James has worked on a number of notable projects, including creating digital solutions for the National Institute for Research, in order to support the organisation in improving the management and delivery of clinical research across England. James also received a Clinical Research Network award for developing several local tools and processes, which he later developed into successful national initiatives. James is an avid design-thinker experienced in developing tools and processes to enable teams to become more digitally mature. 

In every Subject Spotlight you’ll find


On-demand interactive video content

Sign up, log in and access a wide range of potentially life-changing Subject Spotlight experiences that will help you make informed decisions about your university future.

Remarkable & relatable academics

Learn from some of the UK’s finest and most decorated academics as they give you a genuine, insightful and engaging experience of studying their courses at their universities.

Interactive quizzes and activities

Have a go at fascinating interactive quizzes and activities, then get meaningful and intuitive feedback from the academics to see how you’ve done.

Content to enhance students’ personal statements

Hear direct from the academics what’s expected of you in your personal statements, and the things you can do to improve your chances of getting on the course you most desire!

Certificate of completion

You’ll receive a certificate of completion to evidence your learning - why not add this to your CV and university applications to show your dedication to your future pathway!

Frequently asked questions


What is a Subject Spotlight?
Why should I check out Subject Spotlights?
Who is this Spotlight for?
How should I talk about completing a Subject Spotlight on my personal statement?