Ethan Aaron, CEO of Portable, dives into the debate of whether data is a job or merely a skill. He discusses the barriers companies face in utilizing simple tools like Google Sheets for analytics. The conversation highlights the evolving role of data teams, addressing the gap between technical work and actual business value. Ethan also explores how businesses can identify impactful data applications to drive culture and efficiency, while navigating the cyclical nature of data trends and the integration of AI in decision-making.
The discussion emphasizes the need for data skills across various business functions to enhance overall effectiveness rather than relying solely on dedicated data teams.
A pragmatic approach to evaluating data personnel focuses on their capacity to deliver measurable value to a company, rather than just theoretical expertise.
The rise of AI is transforming data functions, allowing non-technical business professionals to access insights independently and reshaping organizational data strategies.
Deep dives
The Rise of Plant Enthusiasm
One speaker shares their newfound passion for plants, expanding from a single struggling plant to a collection of 16 within weeks. They recount a visit to a street in New York known for its plant shops, where they negotiated prices for various plants. This experience highlights the joy of cultivating green spaces at home and the therapeutic benefits associated with gardening. The conversation reflects a trend of individuals embracing hobbies that foster connection with nature.
Evaluating the Role of Data Teams
A discussion revolves around the purpose of data teams and whether they are essential for every business. Questions arise regarding the validity of data teams existing solely to consolidate data or because of industry pressure to have them. Experts emphasize the need for data skills across various functions such as marketing, sales, and engineering rather than the existence of a separate data team. This perspective challenges traditional views on data roles in organizations, advocating for a skill-based approach.
Defining Value in Data Roles
The conversation delves into how organizations should measure the effectiveness of data personnel. The definition of a 'best data person' centers on their ability to contribute measurable value to the company, whether that means increasing revenue, cutting costs, or mitigating risks. This pragmatic approach focuses on real-world impacts rather than theoretical expertise in data management. The discussion raises awareness of the evolving landscape of data roles and the necessity for alignment with business objectives.
Challenges of Collaboration in Data Teams
The importance of collaboration between data professionals and business stakeholders is emphasized throughout the discussion. Ineffective communication can result in data teams creating outputs that lack practical application, leading to wasted resources. Examples are shared detailing how disconnects between data scientists and operational teams can result in missed opportunities for impactful insights. Successful integration of data insights hinges on understanding the operational context and fostering dialogue within the organization.
Adapting to the AI and Data Landscape
Experts explore how the advent of AI is reshaping expectations for data function within companies. Unlike traditional data roles that required intricate technical skills, AI democratizes access to data insights, allowing business professionals to tackle challenges independently. The potential for AI to enhance decision-making processes and create new business strategies suggests a shift in how organizations consider their data infrastructure. This transition symbolizes an opportunity for data practitioners to leverage their knowledge and ensure alignment with evolving business needs.
Ethan Aaron (CEO of Portable) joins us to chat about whether data is a job or a skill, what's stopping companies from running their analytics out of a Google Sheet, and much more.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode