Qlik Developer: Skills, Roles, and Responsibilities

Qlik is a popular business intelligence and data visualization platform that enables organizations to analyze and interpret complex data sets.

Qlik developers play a crucial role in designing, developing, and implementing Qlik solutions that empower businesses to make data-driven decisions.

This article provides an in-depth overview of the qualifications, technical skills, and non-technical skills, as well as the roles and responsibilities of a Qlik Developer.

Qualifications:

To become a proficient Qlik Developer, individuals typically require a combination of education and practical experience. The following qualifications are commonly sought after by employers:

1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is preferred. However, relevant certifications and hands-on experience can also be valuable.
2. Data and Analytics Knowledge: A strong understanding of data analysis concepts, data modeling, and business intelligence principles is essential. Familiarity with database technologies and SQL is advantageous for working with data in Qlik.
3. Qlik Certifications: Qlik offers various certifications, such as Qlik Sense Business Analyst, Qlik Sense Data Architect, and Qlik Sense System Administrator. Obtaining these certifications demonstrates expertise and proficiency in using the Qlik platform.

Technical Skills:

Qlik Developers need to possess a range of technical skills to effectively develop and implement Qlik solutions. Some key technical skills include:

1. Qlik Platform: In-depth knowledge and proficiency in using the Qlik platform, including QlikView and Qlik Sense. This includes understanding data loading techniques, data modeling, creating visualizations, and building dashboards and reports.
2. Data Integration: Expertise in integrating and transforming data from various sources into Qlik applications. This involves data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL) processes using tools like Qlik Data Manager or scripting with QlikView’s load script.
3. Data Modeling: Ability to design and develop efficient data models within Qlik, ensuring optimal data associations, data integrity, and performance. This includes creating appropriate data structures, defining relationships, and implementing data security.
4. Visualization and Dashboarding: Proficiency in designing visually appealing and interactive dashboards, charts, and reports using Qlik’s visualization capabilities. Knowledge of best practices for data visualization and UI/UX design is crucial.
5. Scripting and Expression Language: Strong command over Qlik’s scripting language (QlikView Script or Qlik Sense Script) for data transformations, calculations, and creating custom logic. Proficiency in Qlik’s expression language for building dynamic and complex expressions is also important.

Non-Technical Skills:

In addition to technical expertise, Qlik Developers should possess certain non-technical skills to excel in their roles. These skills include:

1. Analytical Thinking: Qlik Developers need strong analytical skills to understand complex data sets, identify patterns, and extract meaningful insights. They should be able to translate business requirements into actionable analytics solutions.
2. Problem-solving: Effective problem-solving abilities are essential for Qlik Developers to tackle data-related challenges, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance. They should be adept at debugging and resolving data and application-related problems.
3. Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial for effectively interacting with stakeholders, understanding business requirements, and presenting data insights. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as data analysts and business users, is also important.

Roles and Responsibilities:

The roles and responsibilities of a Qlik Developer can vary depending on the organization and project requirements. However, some common responsibilities include:

1. Data Analysis and Modeling: Analyzing business requirements, understanding data sources, and designing optimized data models within the Qlik platform. This involves data cleansing, transformation, and data governance activities.
2. Dashboard and Report Development: Building interactive dashboards, visualizations, and reports that provide actionable insights to end-users. This includes selecting appropriate charts, creating complex expressions, and designing user-friendly interfaces.
3. Data Integration and ETL: Extracting data from various sources, transforming and loading it into Qlik applications. This involves developing data extraction routines, performing data validation, and ensuring data accuracy and integrity.
4. Performance Optimization: Identifying and implementing performance tuning techniques to optimize data loading, improve query performance, and enhance user experience within Qlik applications.
5. Collaboration and Support: Working closely with business users, data analysts, and other stakeholders to understand requirements, provide technical support, and deliver high-quality Qlik solutions. This includes conducting user training and ensuring user adoption of Qlik applications.

Conclusion:

Becoming a skilled Qlik Developer requires a combination of qualifications, technical skills, and non-technical skills. Qlik Developers play a vital role in enabling organizations to leverage their data for informed decision-making.

By acquiring the necessary qualifications and honing the required technical and non-technical skills, individuals can excel in this role and contribute to the successful implementation of Qlik solutions.