In this episode of Talking AI, Matt Paige speaks with Andy McMillan, CEO of Alteryx, to challenge the narrative that AI will make data analysts obsolete.
Andy argues that AI can make analysts indispensable by automating routine tasks, enhancing scalability, and providing specific business insights.
They discuss the evolving role of analysts, the importance of business logic, and how AI can aid in building useful tools.
The conversation touches on applying AI in various business processes, from budgeting to sales commissions, and how analysts can leverage AI to add value.
Andy also shares insights on Alteryx’s latest developments and future direction, emphasizing automation, data preparation, and AI tools designed to enhance productivity and accuracy.
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Key Moments:
- 00:50 The Evolving Role of Data Analysts
- 03:19 AI and Data Preparation: A New Era
- 04:04 Real-World Examples: AI in Action
- 07:00 The Analyst's Superpower: Business Context
- 10:07 AI and the Semantic Layer
- 12:44 Empowering Analysts with AI
- 21:11 The Future of AI Agents
- 23:46 Applying AI to Automation
- 23:56 The Future of AI Agents
- 24:55 Preparing for AI Integration
- 25:37 Challenges with AI in Business
- 27:45 AI in Finance and Data Accuracy
- 30:06 Strategic Shifts with AI
- 35:29 Build vs. Buy in the AI Era
- 38:56 Alteryx's New AI Capabilities
- 41:22 The Future Role of Analysts
- 42:18 Overhyped and Underhyped AI
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Key Links:
- Alteryx
- Connect with Andy on LinkedIn
Mentioned in this episode:
Free report from HatchWorks AI — State of AI 2026
What’s real in AI this year, what’s hype, and what leaders should prioritize — including production lessons, designing for agents, and governance.
https://hatchworks.com/state-of-ai-2026/
