Mark Penn’s Microsoft role includes competitive intelligence & analysis; Business Analysts receive new data merging analysis tool, called Paxata; Ipsos’ view of 2014 changes in market research industry; Lowe’s hires Chief Customer Officer (RBDR–3/6/2014)

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Today: 1) Seattle Times technology reporter Janet Tu sheds light on new Microsoft Chief Strategy Officer Mark Penn’s specific responsibilities. 2) You will be hearing a lot about Paxata, a brand new system that IN MINUTES combines different types of data that every business analyst needs to combine for analysis. 3) Ipsos reports its 2013 revenues and profits, and explains changes it sees for 2014 market research for vendors. 4) Lowe’s hires a Chief Customer Officer.