What will I learn on this module?
This module will introduce the key elements of business intelligence and organisational decision making. Drawing on business analytics, decision science and systems thinking, you will explore how organisations are able to leverage data and information to formulate a complete understanding of complex problems and to identify and implement optimal solutions. Employers are looking for data-literate graduates with the ability to explore and solve novel business problems, and as such, this module will cover topics such as organisational process modelling, business performance management, data analytics in a business context, and the use of data visualisation as a tool for exploration and communication. You will have to the opportunity to work with others in collaborative problem-solving scenarios, to investigate how businesses can use effective decision making to achieve optimal, sustainable solutions, and to explore the ethical, legal, and societal issues present when using data-driven technologies.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through a combination of lectures, practical workshops, and independent learning, providing you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute to the design, development and management of effective business intelligence and decision support systems. The lectures will provide you with the theory required for you to complete the practical, hands-on tasks that you will complete in the state-of-the-art teaching labs in the Northumbria CIS Building. You will gain experience of using industry-standard analytics platforms to explore, model and visualise data.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by the module tutors during the timetabled sessions, where you will be able to receive feedback and ask any questions that you may have regarding the taught materials. Outside of the timetabled sessions, the module tutors have dedicated office hours when they will be available to offer academic support and guidance. In addition, all the learning materials will be available through Northumbria University’s eLearning portal, along with supporting materials and additional resources. You will also be able to draw on the support and assistance offered by the university library.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
ML01 – Demonstrate a critical understanding of how theories of decision making can inform the effective design, development, implementation, and use of business intelligence applications.
ML02 – Demonstrate a deep understanding of the data and business analysis tools and techniques that can be used to support and enhance organisational understanding and decision making.
ML03 - Identify and discuss the potential social, cultural, legal, and ethical issues associated with the implementation of business intelligence solutions.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
ML04 – Demonstrate an ability to analyse complex organisational systems and identify appropriate and effective solutions to business problems.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
ML05 – Use independent research and enquiry skills to engage with and critically synthesise information drawn from a variety of sources.
How will I be assessed?
The summative assessment for this module (contributing 100% of the overall module mark) will be a written report that draws together all the skills and knowledge gained over the course of module. You will be required to produce a 4,000-word report in which you will document the use of a variety of business intelligence tools and techniques through an investigation of a business, moving from problem identification through to solution identification and the demonstration of systematic approaches to decision making to provide clear justification for your chosen solution(s). This process will be supported by the use of appropriate software.
This assessment addresses Module Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
You will also receive formative feedback on in-class exercises you are required to complete.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Effective decision making is essential for the success of any business. This module introduces the key concepts, principles, and practical understanding of business intelligence (BI) systems, and how BI is used to support and enhance decision making. The module explores the idea of organisations as complex systems and will provide the skills and knowledge necessary to analyse these systems and identify solutions that are able to improve organisational function and meet business goals. Alongside a theory-driven exploration of these themes, you will engage in practical workshop activities to gain hands-on experience with a wide variety of BI tools and techniques, which will culminate in you producing assessed work that will demonstrate your ability to investigate complex business problems and use decision support systems to identify optimal solutions.
Course info
UCAS Code G411
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Computer and Information Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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