14th-Jan-2026 • Alice Wambui • Business Intelligence
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of Kenya’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and employment sector. However, to thrive amidst fierce competition, it is crucial for these businesses to make informed decisions based on data-driven insights. One powerful tool that can help SMEs achieve this goal is Business Intelligence (BI).
Business Intelligence refers to the practice of transforming raw data into actionable insights to drive better decision-making. By analyzing various business aspects such as sales, marketing, finance, and operations, BI helps organizations understand their current standing, identify trends, and predict future outcomes.
For instance, suppose a local retail store wants to boost its sales during the festive season. With Business Intelligence, it can analyze historical sales data, customer preferences, and competitor strategies to devise targeted promotions that resonate with their audience and yield higher returns.
Small businesses often operate on tight budgets and limited resources, making it challenging to gather and analyze data. However, BI tools have become more accessible and affordable in recent years, offering cost-effective solutions for SMEs.
A survey by Grand View Research indicates that the global Business Intelligence market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2021 to 2028, demonstrating its growing importance in today's data-driven world.
By embracing Business Intelligence, SMEs in Kenya can unlock hidden opportunities for growth and stay ahead of their competitors. Remember, knowledge is power, but actionable insights are the key to success.