A few years ago I posted a book review of Competing on Analytics. I've periodically harped on the subject of tracking and analyzing data. A good summary of future trends on the subject was recently prepared by Thornton May, writing for the CIO Leadership Network.
One of May's key points: "Migration from focusing on the past [what happened] to using predictive analytics to shape/influence what happens in the future."
If this topic is not high on your priority list, then I suggest revisiting your priorities.