EACH week the Evening Times will turn the spotlight on one of the dozens of local businesses determined to succeed.

They are the future for Glasgow and the west of Scotland's economy and are working hard to achieve success in the face of continuing economic hardship. Many businesses are struggling to take off because of the economic downturn, and this column will offer advice for potential start-ups and small businesses.

Each company will answer the same questions about their business and their answers will appear in the Evening Times each Wednesday. This week we highlight Data Science & Analytics Ltd.

Who Are You?

I am Dr Calum Alexander of Data Science & Analytics Limited. We help businesses of all sizes solve complex business data problems using a combination of education (workshops and courses), consultancy, implementation, and support.

What does your business do?

Most businesses are aware of 'Big Data' and analytics but don't always know how it can help them.

In recent years the data that we need to collect for our businesses has become so large and complex that a different set of technical and business skills are required to take advantage of it.

Data Science and Analytics help businesses use their data to develop advanced analytics and forecasting techniques: to better understand what has happened, why it has happened and predict what could happen in future rather than relying on intuition alone. As a result businesses can optimise their activities.

As a first step we work with companies to help them get their data correct. Everything comes from that.

Where are you based?

In the Digital Enterprise Glasgow offices at the Hub in Glasgow and at the Moffat Business Incubator offices at Napier University in Edinburgh. Both provide a high level of help and support to help you start and grow your business.

How did you get started?

I had the idea for Data Science Analytics when I was working for a company in London just over two years ago.

I realised that many businesses think of IT only in terms of software. It's actually their data and their ability to act upon it that is more valuable.

What is your background

I have 20+ years in IT specialising in data, data processing techniques, and data systems.

I also have a PhD in Astrophysics from Glasgow University, MSc from Napier University, and a BSc from Edinburgh University.

What is your top tip?

Successful start-up companies combine hard work, persistence, and more luck than anyone will ever admit to. Believe in yourself and trust your instincts.

How long has your business been running?

Just under a year. However, I spent the first six months networking and talking with companies, finding opportunities to develop further.

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

Napier University, Digital Enterprise Glasgow and Business Gateway.

What was your biggest mistake/or what would you do differently?

Don't be too hard on yourself for making mistakes - they happen.

Learn from them and move on.

Who was/is your mentor/or inspiration?

There's too many people to list.

Where do you plan your business to be in five years time?

To be known for providing an innovative range of services and being good at what we do.

Useful contacts:

Moffat Business Incubator, Napier University

Nick Fannin

Email: n.fannin@napier.ac.uk

Digital Enterprise Glasgow

Donna MacKenzie

Email: Donna.MacKenzie@drs.glasgow.gov.uk

Contact details:

Dr Calum Alexander

Data Science & Analytics Ltd.

M: 0798 983 5301

calum@data-science-analytics.co.uk

http://www.data-science-analytics.co.uk