Statistical analytics examines data using statistical and quantitative techniques to reveal patterns and trends in the data, while predictive analytics is focused on creating forecasts. A very large variety of techniques from many fields such as econometrics, financial forecasting, psychometrics, data mining and classical statistics are drawn upon to gain new insights from the data.
Expert analysts and statisticians determine the most valid and rigorous techniques to apply in order to answer the questions of interest. Results from statistical and predictive analytics can be used to plan for current needs as well as anticipate future needs.