114: Solving Data Infrastructure Problems at Startups and Enterprises with Max Werner of Obsessive Analytics Consulting
Nov 23, 2022
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Data infrastructure problem solver, Max Werner, shares his career journey, the dynamics of a switchboard operator, and common threads in different companies. He discusses the evolution of CDP, data sources for CDP, working with event data, and his take on other tools. Max also talks about the cutting edge in data and building a data company in an evolving environment.
Consultants bring valuable objectivity and broad perspectives to data tooling and processes.
Coordination and communication are crucial when working with specialized teams in large enterprises.
Deep dives
The Value of Consultants in Data Tooling
Max Warner, a data consultant, shares his insights on the value of consultants in the data industry. He emphasizes that consultants have a unique perspective due to their work with various companies, providing them with a broad view of data tooling and processes. He highlights the importance of objectivity and realistic on-the-ground views in implementing data technology and trends. Consultants can offer valuable guidance in identifying common patterns and addressing different challenges based on company size and needs.
Transitioning from Startups to Enterprise Companies
Max Warner discusses his experience of transitioning from working in small startups to a large company like Warner Bros. He observes that startups often require employees to take on multiple roles, whereas large companies have specialized teams dedicated to specific tasks. He emphasizes the importance of coordination and communication when working with specialized teams in large enterprises. Max also highlights the presence of more processes and red tape in larger companies, which can affect the workflow and decision-making processes.
Challenges and Common Pitfalls in Data-Driven Decision Making
Max Warner highlights the common pitfalls companies face when making data-driven decisions. He points out that many companies rely on imperfect or incomplete data and make important business decisions based on unreliable information. Lack of data literacy and technical understanding often leads to subjective decision-making based on anecdotal evidence or incomplete data. Max emphasizes the need for companies to invest in accurate data collection and analysis to make informed decisions and avoid potential negative consequences.
The Modern Data Stack and Future Trends
Max Warner discusses the modern data stack and the importance of open standards and interoperability between tools. He believes that building applications and websites with a focus on data is essential. Separating concerns within the infrastructure and considering the needs of both external users and internal data consumers can lead to more efficient data processing and analysis. Max advises companies to prioritize building data-driven features such as automated processes, real-time notifications, and smarter workflows. He also predicts that future innovation will involve more openness and availability of tools and standards for better data integration and flow.
The Data Stack Show is a weekly podcast powered by RudderStack, the CDP for developers. Each week we’ll talk to data engineers, analysts, and data scientists about their experience around building and maintaining data infrastructure, delivering data and data products, and driving better outcomes across their businesses with data.
RudderStack helps businesses make the most out of their customer data while ensuring data privacy and security. To learn more about RudderStack visit rudderstack.com.
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