The Analytics Power Hour

#257: Analyst Use Cases for Generative AI

Oct 29, 2024

Joined by Martin Broadhurst, a consultant on AI and owner of Broadhurst Digital, the discussion dives into the evolving role of generative AI in analytics. They explore how AI can enhance data democratization while navigating its complexities. Martin emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's limitations and cautions against total reliance on it. Conversations also touch on the intricacies of Marketing Mix Modeling versus traditional methods, and the necessity of human expertise in achieving effective data analysis outcomes. Expect a blend of insights and humor throughout!

01:05:35

Creator website

Episode guests

Martin Broadhurst

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Generative AI holds potential for analysts by automating tasks, but requires a foundational understanding of its capabilities and limitations.

Humans are crucial in analytics despite AI advancements, as critical thinking and business context validation remain necessary for accurate insights.

Analysts are encouraged to blend traditional techniques with AI tools, focusing on upskilling to enhance their relevance in the evolving landscape.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Automation and AI in Analytics

Automation has been a topic of interest since the Industrial Revolution, and its relevance continues in the realm of analytics today. The podcast highlights the ongoing discourse around using AI to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in various tasks traditionally performed by humans. Specifically, there is curiosity about how analytics can be improved through machine learning and AI applications, such as generative AI. This new wave of automation presents both opportunities and fears regarding the future of jobs in the analytics space.

Intro

2min

Navigating Generative AI in Analytics

8min

Navigating Data Analysis Complexities and Stakeholder Perspectives

2min

Understanding Generative AI in Data Analysis

6min

Navigating AI in Data Visualization and Analysis

20min

Navigating AI in Analytics

18min

Navigating Leadership Values and AI Reasoning

3min

Inclusivity and Innovation in Data Analysis

7min

udging by the number of inbound pitches we get from PR firms, AI is absolutely going to replace most of the work of the analyst some time in the next few weeks. It’s just a matter of time until some startup gets enough market traction to make that happen (business tip: niche podcasts are likely not a productive path to market dominance, no matter what Claude from Marketing says). We’re skeptical. But that doesn’t mean we don’t think there are a lot of useful applications of generative AI for the analyst. We do! As Moe posited in this episode, one useful analogy is that thinking of using generative AI effectively is like getting a marketer effectively using MMM when they’ve been living in an MTA world (it’s more nuanced and complicated). Our guest (NOT from a PR firm solicitation!), Martin Broadhurst, agreed: it’s dicey to fully embrace generative AI without some understanding of what it’s actually doing. Things got a little spicy, but no humans or AI were harmed in the making of the episode.

For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.

The Analytics Power Hour

#257: Analyst Use Cases for Generative AI

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Evolution of Automation and AI in Analytics

Understanding AI Capabilities and Limitations

The Human Component in Data Analytics

Innovative Ways to Leverage AI Tools

The Future of Analytics Careers in the Age of AI

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts