ISEDJ

Abstract: This teaching case introduces introductory level students to data literacy through an applied operational analytics project based on a regional express car wash business. Students assume the role of an external consulting team hired by Soapy Noble Express Car Wash, a fast-growing chain operating eight locations in New England, to analyze transaction level point of sale data and develop actionable recommendations for management. Using approximately one year of transaction records at scale, students apply Excel based techniques such as data cleaning, descriptive statistics, pivot tables, and visualization to identify patterns in customer demand, service mix, location performance, and monthly unlimited plan usage. To extend analysis beyond the internal dataset, the case encourages students to locate and integrate relevant external sources, such as weather or demographic data, and to explain how these sources inform interpretation and recommendations. The case is designed for first year courses in data literacy, business analytics, or introductory CIS and includes team-based deliverables appropriate for nontechnical decision makers, including an analysis workbook and a concise executive memo and presentation.

Download this article: ISEDJ - V24 N5 Page 61.pdf

Recommended Citation: Mentzer, K., Russo, R., Lawshe, N., Mullen, E., (2026). Operational Analytics in Excel: A Transaction-Level Car Wash Case for Introductory Data Literacy. Information Systems Education Journal 24(5) pp 61-84. https://doi.org/10.62273/VSNO9035