Beyond 2020 Defence Team Stories: Innovative IT Tools for Analytics

June 29, 2021 - Defence Stories

The implementation of innovative IT solutions within organizations has become a common need in many departments across government. Within the last fiscal year, ADM (Data, Innovation, Analytics) [ADM(DIA)] has been working with ADM (Information Management) [ADM (IM)] and engaging stakeholders to increase access to digital tools, especially those supporting data integration, analytics solutions and business innovation. 

The implementation of Defence 365 (D365) has opened the doors to being able to access Power BI (Business Intelligence), a software that turns data into a visual snapshot. Power BI is an analytics software that lets the user create, review, and publish interactive reports and dashboards to analyze data, gain insights and make better decisions.

 Power BI users will have the ability to:

• Transform and model data into visually appealing charts and graphs
• Create organized, efficient reports and dashboards to help conceptualize data
• Use the scorecard tool to track and measure progress toward related goals and subgoals
• Easily collaborate and share reports with others using the Power BI software

Following the rollout in February 2021, ADM(DIA) created a user guide to provide guidance on connectivity and common troubleshooting issues. In addition, DIA is offering training so employees can learn how to get the most out of their powerful data analytics. The goal is for Defence Team members to embrace a data-driven culture and become self-sufficient in the use of analytics in their own areas of expertise. 

How to access Power BI:

DWAN users: Applications --> Software Center --> Search: Power BI --> Install

Defence 365 users: Available through the D365 'Apps’ menu --> Power BI (no installation required)

Getting started with Power BI: Getting started with Power BI is a short tutorial, accessible on the software’s homepage, that provides users with an introductory look at using the program.

For more information, please contact the Beyond 2020 team at Innovation@forces.gc.ca.