From Coursework to Consulting Insights: My Capstone Analytics Project with Oracle

This spring, as I prepare to begin my Master’s in Applied Business Analytics at the University of Arkansas, I had the opportunity to complete a semester-long group project in collaboration with Sachin Pandey, Oracle’s Head of Data Engineering and Data Science. This project was the focus of ISYS 43903: Applied Business Analytics Practicum, the final course in my Business Analytics minor through the University of Arkansas ­- Sam M. Walton College of Business.

Our team was tasked with analyzing two real-world datasets from Oracle, focused on e-commerce customer churn and customer shopping behavior, with the goal of generating strategic, data-driven recommendations. While our findings are confidential, this project challenged us to think like data consultants—translating raw data into actionable business insights.

One of the most rewarding outcomes of the experience was the feedback we received from Oracle. Our recommendations were not only well-received by their data science leadership, but are also being considered for real implementation. Knowing that our analysis could directly influence Oracle’s customer engagement and retention strategy was both validating and incredibly exciting. It affirmed that our work didn’t just meet academic expectations—it delivered real-world value.

Throughout the semester, we applied a wide range of technical and analytical skills, including:

• Data modeling: Built logistic regression and decision tree models to identify at-risk customers and map key churn drivers

• SAS Viya workflows: Performed detailed exploratory analysis and created data visualizations to support segmentation and targeting strategies

• Statistical testing: Conducted linear regression and hypothesis testing to evaluate how income, tenure, and satisfaction influenced customer spend and retention

• Behavioral clustering: Used education and loyalty tier data to uncover segmentation patterns and tailor loyalty program recommendations

• Business communication: Synthesized complex analytical findings into concise, strategic recommendations aligned with Oracle’s business priorities

I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished as a team and grateful to have worked alongside such talented peers. Special thanks to Sachin Pandey for your mentorship, real-world perspective, and thoughtful feedback. And to Dr.Ronald Freeze , thank you for guiding us through every stage of this project and encouraging us to think critically, strategically, and creatively.