In today’s world, data is everywhere. From the apps we use to the purchases we make, data is constantly being collected, stored, and analyzed. But what does all that really mean? And how does it actually help businesses make smarter decisions?

The Human Side of Data is your down-to-earth guide to understanding how data works behind the scenes and why it matters to real people, real jobs, and real business problems.

This book isn’t just for tech experts or computer scientists. It’s written for everyday learners, business professionals, students, and anyone curious about how modern organizations use data to make decisions, improve services, and stay ahead in a competitive world.

What you’ll learn inside:

• What data is and how it’s organized – explained in simple terms.
• How databases work – think of them like digital filing cabinets that help businesses store and find important information quickly.
• What data warehouses are – and why big companies use them to bring all their data together in one place.
• Why data quality and trust are so important – because bad data leads to bad decisions.
• Real-world stories and examples – from banks, retailers, and everyday businesses using data to solve problems.
• The human side of it all – the people who work with data, the challenges they face, and the teamwork it takes to turn data into something useful.

This book turns complicated ideas into clear, relatable concepts using simple language, helpful examples, and a friendly tone. You won’t need a technical background—just curiosity and a desire to learn how the world of data connects to the world around you.

Whether you’re just starting out, exploring a career in data, or trying to understand how your company’s information systems work, The Human Side of Data is here to guide you—step by step, one concept at a time.

Vijayalakshmi Duraisamy is a Management Consultant in Data Analytics, holding a master’s degree in business administration, specializing in Finance. She has a tenure of 18 years of experience in the Banking and Financial services industry beginning as a Banker, Business analyst and as a Data Analyst. Her stint as Business analyst is marked by successful implementation of widely acknowledged banking projects for leading banks across geographies like Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Middle east, Tokyo and USA. Her Data Analytical skills have garnered het acclaimed awards and her knowledge is shared widely in the papers she has published in journals, Trainings and Mentoring sessions she has conducted and guest speeches to college students.