Ted Kwartler, Field CTO of Generative AI at DataRobot, discusses challenges in software development teams, including collaboration, cross-functionality, and retention strategies for data professionals. The podcast highlights the need for training non-technical executives, addressing tooling challenges in AI development, and creating a culture of integration. Overall, it offers actionable insights on handling pushback, assigning team members based on skills, and planning future initiatives
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Successful AI adoption requires addressing challenges arising from different perspectives and approaches of data scientists, ML engineers, developers, and IT teams.
Building productive teams of data scientists and developers requires leadership that fosters integration, supports experimentation, and focuses on proven use cases.
Deep dives
Challenges of Integrating Data Scientists and Developers
The integration of data scientists, ML engineers, developers, and IT teams in enterprises is crucial for successful AI adoption. However, challenges arise due to different perspectives and approaches. Data scientists prioritize rapid experimentation and prototyping, while IT teams focus on stability and processes. CIOs are getting more involved, primarily due to the integration of large language models (LLMs), leading to differences in understanding and communication. Frictions can also arise from the top-down pressure of C-suite executives and the bottom-up experimental nature of data scientists. Addressing these challenges requires fostering a culture of integration, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and providing clear guidelines for proven use cases.
Leadership's Role in Building Productive Teams
Leadership plays a crucial role in building productive teams of data scientists and developers. C-suite executives and managers need to understand the dynamics and challenges involved in AI integration and provide guidance and support. Creating a culture that encourages experimentation and allows for failure is important. New ML engineers should be embedded cross-functionally, going through a rotational experience where they gain a deep understanding of various parts of the business and work closely with seasoned team members. Additionally, focusing on proven use cases and retaining talent by promoting engagement and value creation are key factors in building successful teams.
Addressing Sprawl and Governance in AI Tooling
The growing number of AI tools and technologies can lead to sprawl and complexity within organizations. With hundreds of LLMs, multiple vector databases, and various notebooks available, governance and standardization become crucial. Managing this sprawl requires a focus on interoperability and planning for a variety of use cases. Building a technical infrastructure that allows for seamless integration and collaboration is vital. Organizations should also consider implementing governance practices to prevent excessive tool proliferation and manage technical debt effectively.
Today’s guest is Ted Kwartler, Field CTO of Generative AI at DataRobot. DataRobot is an AI-powered software company that helps enterprises automate processes from end-to-end. Ted returns to the platform in conversation with Emerj CEO and Head of Research Daniel Faggella to examine what challenges for software development teams look like from the perspective of leadership. Later, Ted offers actionable insight on handling pushback on goals, assigning team members based on data-verified skills rather than work politics and planning future initiatives. This episode is sponsored by Pieces. Learn how brands work with Emerj and other Emerj Media options at emerj.com/ad1.
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