Which of the following is NOT a key component of business analytics?

Descriptive modeling is not considered a key component of business analytics in the same way that descriptive analytics, predictive analytics, and prescriptive analytics are.

Descriptive analytics focuses on analyzing historical data to understand what has happened in a business context. It provides insights through data aggregation and mining techniques, helping businesses make sense of past events.

Predictive analytics, on the other hand, leverages statistical models and machine learning techniques to forecast future events based on historical data. It is essential for businesses aiming to anticipate trends and customer behavior, allowing proactive decision-making.

Prescriptive analytics builds upon descriptive and predictive analytics by recommending actions based on data insights. It uses algorithms and optimization techniques to suggest the best course of action in given scenarios, guiding businesses in decision-making processes.

While descriptive modeling can play a role in the broader context of analytics, it does not encompass the comprehensive approaches that the other three components represent in business analytics. Thus, it is clear why descriptive modeling falls outside the core framework of business analytics.