Linking data analytics to real-world business issues: The power of the pivot table

One challenge facing accounting graduates and practitioners is acquiring sufficient data analytic skills. Using a moderately large and complex dataset from a privately owned company, the case illustrates how data analytics can help illuminate and resolve business issues. Special emphasis is placed on using pivot tables, which enable users to summarize and group large datasets into condensed reports quickly and in a variety of ways. Upon completing the case, you will be able to (a) identify appropriate parameters and criteria needed to address the concerns of senior managers, (b) create appropriate pivot tables using Microsoft Excel, (c) prepare written memorandums that summarize managers’ concerns, explain the usefulness of the findings, and make recommendations based on critical thinking to enhance their understanding of business issues. Optional instructions for data visualization using Tableau are included. The case is appropriate for undergraduate and graduate accounting information systems, business analytics courses, and professional training.