The North and West Melbourne Data Analytics Hub gives businesses an opportunity to harness student skills, analyse the data they collect and use that data to build business capability.

The Hub was established to provide real value to businesses. University and TAFE students matched to organisations through The Hub are able to stretch the business into a new direction. This could be through a new product or service, a new way of operating or by producing evidence that can be used to make future business decisions.

During their data analytics placement, students tackle a real workplace project. They see how their skills can positively impact a business and they increase their own employability.

Background

While all organisations collect data, most don’t use the information they have. Many organisations perceive data analytics as highly advanced, as something beyond them. Some don’t understand the power of data analytics, some understand but don’t have the resources and expertise to implement change, and others are early adopters who want to keep up with the latest innovations.

At the same time, younger people are increasingly seeing data analytics as a viable field for a career. Uptake of data related subjects and courses in tertiary institutions continue to grow, and the employment market across all fields continues to demand practical experience. The Hub links these groups, offering students the chance to demonstrate their knowledge and skills while giving industry the opportunity to test the viability of data analytics in their business – with little risk.

Partners

The Hub is managed by NORTH Link. Project partners include the Victorian Government, La Trobe University, RMIT University, Victoria University, Kangan Institute, Melbourne Polytechnic and the City of Moonee Valley.

Project types

Students in this program come from all disciplines of data analytics – from PhD and Masters to undergraduate, diploma and certificate.  Businesses can sign up to either a big or small project, specifically:

1. Business audits:  Students form a team and undertake a diagnostic project that will look at the data generated in your business and advise on how you can use it to improve your operations.
2. Major industry project:  A long form project that would involve more significant resources. This would address a business problem and add real value, demonstrating how essential data analytics is in business. It is an implementation process of recommendations made through an earlier business audit project.

The numbers

In its first semester of operations, The Hub placed 52 students into 21 projects.

Contact us

E: james.wallace@latrobe.edu.au               T: 0406 500 240

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/7591368/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MelbournesNorthlink/