Business Analytics for Decision Making

The University of Colorado Boulder, situated against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, is a flagship institution renowned for its academic excellence, research prowess, and vibrant campus life. CU Boulder has evolved into a hub of innovation and intellectual exploration. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, encouraging students to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society. At CU Boulder, students engage with world-class faculty who are leaders in their fields, fostering an environment that promotes critical thinking and creativity. The campus is a melting pot of ideas and cultures, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for students. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on cutting-edge research, the University of Colorado Boulder continues to be a beacon of higher education, preparing students to navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world.

In this course you will learn how to create models for decision making. We will start with cluster analysis, a technique for data reduction that is very useful in market segmentation. You will then learn the basics of Monte Carlo simulation that will help you model the uncertainty that is prevalent in many business decisions. A key element of decision making is to identify the best course of action. Since businesses problems often have too many alternative solutions, you will learn how optimization can help you identify the best option. What is really exciting about this course is that you won’t need to know a computer language or advanced statistics to learn about these predictive and prescriptive analytic models. The Analytic Solver Platform and basic knowledge of Excel is all you’ll need. Learners participating in assignments will be able to get free access to the Analytic Solver Platform.