Question about career move from Software Testing to Reporting and BI

[msplants]

I have gone the route of being a software tester for about 6 years now and I am looking to get back into reporting and databases. I used to use Crystal Reports and Cognos Impromtu but that was quite a few versions ago.

What are some areas where I could upgrade my skillset?

I have strong database skills in design and sql and strong with report design

I am not up-to-date with any programming languages and am
not strong with networking

Cheers

 

[SQLSister]

Well in your case I might try to get ahold of an updated version of Crystal and see what new things it has.

Or you could get familiar with SQl Server's reporting solution, SSRS. If you got a hold of SQl Server Developer edition, you would be able to get this and SSIS (in case you want to add data warehouseing to the skill set. It can also be helpful in getting your SQl skills up to spped for doing the reporting. I suspect this might be cheaper than getting new version of Crystal Reports.

"NOTHING is more important in a database than integrity." ESquared

 

[MDXer]

You can get SQL Developer Edition for something like $50. As for your question to really be a serious candidate in the BI realm you really need to have an understanding of all layers within a BI solution. There are companies out there that will hire someone as just a report writer but in my opinion to be affective at even this it is best to undertand the Underlying system.

Technologies you may want to get familiar with:
In the MS world
1) SQL Server and star schemas
2) SSIS
3) SSAS
4) SSRS
5) Performance point Server
6) Proclarity

Being able to demonstarte a deep understanding of these technologies is the key to getting work. Anyone can build a sys Package but few design optimized packages.

 

[msplants]

Thank you for the replies. It definitely gives me a starting point. What about the Cognos or Oracle route?

Are there any particular programming languages that would be good to learn?

 

[hilfy]

You could also look at SAP BusinessObjects - the current owner of Crystal Reports. Their support sucks, but I love working with the various parts of the software.

-Dell

A computer only does what you actually told it to do - not what you thought you told it to do.