Abstract:

Business Intelligence provides one of the best ways to transform data into interactive information that can lead to improving the processes of decision making at all levels of management. Companies use business intelligence to detect significant events and identify business trends in order to adapt quickly to changes in their environment. However, the implementation of business intelligence is not easy because of data complexity specific for each organization. Business analysts must convince managers that although the implementation of business intelligence is difficult it can be successful and fruitful for organization. For this reason, the process of training analysts should be very carefully prepared and based on practical solutions known on the marketplace.


Thus, the paper presents the project of integrated learning environment for data transformation, analysis and visualization which was prepared for students of the specialization “Economic analyst” at Faculty of Economics at Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, in Lublin. The aim of the research is to describe the structure, major features and benefits of LE2BI (Learning Environment for Business Intelligence) platform, as well as an experimental learning environment for students of economics and ICT. Proposed solution consists of several modules. The modules covers data extraction, transforming, loading and visualization processes which are the indispensable parts of the business intelligence. Each module uses different software tool (subsystem) which covers different use cases of our system. The system implements single sign on technique for all subsystems and central console for user management and controlling the education process. LE2BI integrates also some functions dedicated for Agile project management (e.g. Kanban board, issue management) which can transform each students exercise into small project equipped with collaboration tools and possibility of on-line evaluation.


LE2BI solution include selected and verified software components available under flexible and free license: Redmine system for Agile project management, Pentahoo Data Integration as a ETL tool and BIRT as reporting tool. The e-learning platform is based on OpenOlat system which provides an assessment and communication kits essential in the teaching process. System is also equipped with selected data from public sector provided by Polish Ministry of Finance as Open Data which is stored in PostgreSQL database system.


LE2BI is available by web interface and can be used as an element of blended learning in the students’ laboratory and remotely. The LE2BI platform is tested with several groups of students of MSc Economic analysis course at Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Faculty of Economics. Presented solution may address many of requirements of integrated learning environments for data analyst.

Keywords:

Business intelligence, data analysis, data transformation, learning environment, open data.