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What Is Business Intelligence?

Business intelligence (BI), a term nowadays intrinsically associated with information technology, has been evolving for over 150 years. Although its origins predate the invention of computers, it was only after they were widespread that BI grew in relevance and its development henceforth became paired with the evolution of computers and databases.

BI Using Pen and Paper

The first use of the term “business intelligence” is widely attributed to Mr. Richard Miller Devens, in his book Cyclopædia of Commercial and Business Anecdotes, first published in 1865. He used it to describe how Sir Henry Furnese, a successful banker, profited from information by actively gathering and acting on it before his competition. This pointed out the fact that it was more reliable to use data and empirical evidence, rather than gut instinct, to develop a business strategy. The idea was further enhanced by others who saw value

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