5 Ways Data Analysts Can Use AI to Work Smarter

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword, it’s becoming an everyday tool for data professionals. For data analysts, AI is not a replacement, but a productivity booster that automates routine tasks, speeds up analysis, and unlocks deeper insights.

At NSDABIE, we encourage our members to embrace AI as a partner in their workflow. Here are five practical ways data analysts can use AI to work smarter:

1️. Automating Data Cleaning and Preparation

Data cleaning often consumes up to 70–80% of an analyst’s time. AI tools can automatically:

• Detect duplicates and missing values
• Suggest transformations
• Standardize formats

Tools like Trifacta, Talend, and even Excel’s AI-powered features help reduce errors and save hours.

2️. Smarter Data Visualization and Storytelling

AI-powered BI platforms such as Power BI (Copilot) and Tableau (Pulse) can generate ready-made charts, identify anomalies, and even draft narrative summaries. Instead of spending hours designing visuals, analysts can focus on explaining insights and influencing decisions.

3️. Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics

Machine learning models often built with Python, R, or AutoML platforms allow analysts to go beyond “what happened?” to “what will happen next?” and “what should we do?” From predicting customer churn to optimizing supply chains, AI helps analysts deliver forward-looking insights.

4️. Natural Language Queries (NLQ)

Instead of writing complex SQL queries, analysts (and even business users) can now type or speak queries like:
“Show me sales growth in Lagos over the last 6 months.”

AI translates this into a query and provides instant answers. Tools like ThoughtSpot, Power BI Q&A, and Google Looker are making data more accessible to everyone.

5️. Personal Productivity with AI Assistants

AI chatbots like ChatGPT or Claude can:

• Generate SQL queries and Python code snippets
• Suggest data modeling approaches
• Help debug analysis workflows
• Summarize long datasets or reports

This reduces mental load and allows analysts to focus on strategy and decision-making.

 Final Word

The smartest data analysts are not the ones afraid of AI they are the ones who learn how to use it effectively. By automating repetitive tasks, enhancing visualization, enabling predictions, simplifying queries, and boosting productivity, AI allows analysts to shift their focus from manual work to meaningful work.

At NSDABIE, we are committed to equipping Nigerian data professionals with both technical tools and human skills to thrive in this AI-powered era.

How are you currently using AI in your data analysis workflow? Share your experience with us in the comment section!