Which of the following tools is essential for business intelligence?

Business analytics software is essential for business intelligence because it provides the necessary tools and capabilities to analyze data, generate insights, and support decision-making processes. Unlike basic tools, business analytics software is specifically designed to handle large datasets, perform complex analyses, and visualize data in a manner that facilitates understanding and interpretation.

For instance, it often includes features for predictive analytics, data mining, and reporting, which are critical for identifying trends and making informed business decisions. The functionality offered by business analytics software enables organizations to derive actionable insights from their data, which is the core purpose of business intelligence.

While a spreadsheet application can be useful for managing and analyzing small datasets, it lacks the advanced analytical capabilities of dedicated business analytics tools. Word processing tools and email services have little to do with data analysis and business intelligence, as they are primarily designed for documentation and communication rather than data-driven decision-making.