Unlock the potential of AI in the world of data analytics with Zenlytic's CEO, Ryan Janssen, as he takes us through a journey from collectible DataMons to the sophisticated integration of AI in business intelligence. Imagine transforming industry pros into trading cards – that's the kind of innovation we chat about, highlighting the whimsical yet calculated steps towards making data not just informative but downright engaging. Ryan recounts the evolution of Zenlytic, from its machine learning beginnings to its current status as a conversational analytics platform, opening up new avenues for how we interact with data.

Data is the new gold, but only if you know how to mine it. This episode peels back the layers of complexity surrounding data modeling and the resurgence of semantic layers, unraveling the intricate dance of accessibility, maintenance, and user experience that businesses must perform. We discuss when your organization might be ready to embrace a semantic layer and the unmistakable signs that it's time to elevate your BI tools for a self-serve experience. Ryan and I also tackle the importance of iteration and soft skills in delivering successful data projects that are not just functional but mission-critical.

As we wrap up, we cast an eye on the horizon of data analytics, where AI isn't merely a trend but a series of incremental innovations shaping the future of data products. From the significance of trust and compliance in AI adoption to the debate between building versus buying AI solutions, we cover the strategic moves companies need to consider. Listen in for a candid discussion on the dynamic roles of data teams, the transformative power of AI like Zenlytic's Zoe, and how different data structures can cater to the divergent engagement levels of users by 2025. After all, the future of data isn't just about numbers—it's about the stories they tell and the decisions they drive.

What's New In Data is a data thought leadership series hosted by John Kutay who leads data and products at Striim. What's New In Data hosts industry practitioners to discuss latest trends, common patterns for real world data patterns, and analytics success stories.