Capterra Glossary
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics uses data, statistics, algorithms, and machine learning to predict future outcomes based on historical data. Predictive analytics is defined by four factors: a focus on prediction, a quick analysis measured in hours or days, a focus on the accuracy of the predictions, and a focus on how easy the analysis is to understand. In other words, predictive analytics has to quickly and easily predict realistic future outcomes based only on past data.
What Small and Midsize Businesses Need to Know About Predictive Analytics
For a small to midsize business (SMB), predictive analytics is key to reducing risk by understanding the past so action can be applied in the future. Through data analysis, studying, and forecasting, predictive analytics can help SMBs understand trends in sales, for example. Analysis will reveal what markets were successful and will help predict what future areas to focus on or expand to. Predictive analytics can also help optimize operations by analyzing turnover and increasing annual revenue through expense analysis.
Related Terms
- Big Data
- Analytics and Business Intelligence (ABI)
- Business Analytics
- Digital Disruption
- Master Data Management (MDM)
- Advanced Technology
- Autonomous Vehicles
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Data And Analytics
- Data Mining
- Clickstream Analysis
- Information Delivery
- Real-time Analytics
- Computer-brain Interface
- Business Intelligence (BI) Services