The Analytics Power Hour

Eric Sandosham, founder and partner at Red & White Consulting Partners, joins the conversation to challenge the effectiveness of benchmarks in business. He argues that much of the data lacks context and can lead to complacency. The hosts discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on external evaluation and the importance of internal data. They explore the nuances of using benchmarks for setting targets and even critique common metrics like the Net Promoter Score. With a blend of humor and insight, they encourage listeners to rethink the role of benchmarks in decision-making.

Matt Gershoff, a data collection strategist from Conductrics, joins the discussion to challenge the prevalent 'just in case' data mentality. He emphasizes the need for a privacy-first approach, advocating for intentional data gathering and ethical practices. The conversation explores the pitfalls of chaotic data collection, highlighting the importance of structure and accessibility. Gershoff introduces innovative methods for mindful data practices while urging organizations to view privacy as a catalyst for innovation, rather than a limitation.

Broadly writ, we’re all in the business of data work in some form, right? It’s almost like we’re all swimming around in a big data lake, and our peers are swimming around it, too, and so are our business partners. There might be some HiPPOs and some SLOTHs splashing around in the shallow end, and the contours of the lake keep changing. Is lifeguarding…or writing SQL…or prompt engineering to get AI to write SQL…or identifying business problems a job or a skill? Does it matter? Aren’t we all just trying to get to the Insights Water Slide? Katie Bauer, Head of Data at Gloss Genius and thought-provoker at Wrong But Useful, joined Michael, Julie, and Val for a much less metaphorically tortured exploration of the ever-shifting landscape in which the modern data professional operates. Or swims. Or sinks? For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.

In this engaging discussion, Dumky de Wilde, co-author of The Fundamentals of Analytics Engineering, dives into the rising role of analytics engineers. He highlights how these professionals blend data engineering skills with business acumen, making them essential in today’s data-driven landscape. Dumky cleverly illustrates their role using a supermarket analogy, clarifying their unique position between data and business needs. Additionally, he shares essential tips for effectively communicating the value of analytics work to senior leadership.

Lewis Carpenter, Director of Real World Evidence at Arcturus and expert in medical statistics, shares insights on the growing importance of real-world data (RWD) in healthcare analytics. He contrasts RWD with traditional randomized controlled trials (RCTs), emphasizing how complex human behavior generates valuable data. The discussion highlights the challenges of interpreting RCTs and the significance of innovative methodologies in study design. Carpenter also delves into off-label prescriptions, showing how RWD aids in understanding treatment effects and expanding medication labels.

In this episode, the hosts explore the distinction between human and AI-generated thoughts through a fun quiz. They discuss the characteristics of an analyst, selecting instructors for a marketing analytics summit, and navigating pitfalls as a new analyst. The importance of continuous learning in analytics and managing stakeholder expectations is also highlighted, with humorous discussions and insights sprinkled throughout.

Marco Palladino, co-founder and CTO at Kong, Inc., dives deep into the realm of APIs, showing how they are the backbone of our digital existence. He highlights their pivotal role in modern application development, emphasizing how they've evolved from optional to essential. The conversation covers the challenges in API infrastructure and security, and how AI could revolutionize API interactions. Palladino also explores the importance of thoughtful design in API management, underscoring its impact on user experience and developer productivity.

Professional development is a big topic—way more than just thinking about what job you want in five years and setting milestones along the way. Thankfully we had Helen Crossley, Senior Director of Marketing Science at Meta, join Michael, Moe, and Val to dive deep into this topic! We explored how to set really good, meaningful goals, the challenges across each stage from junior analyst to leader, and how to give great feedback. We also spent quite a bit of time discussing the new challenges that becoming a first-time manager presents and, hopefully, some helpful tips and thought exercises to help out our listeners who are or are about to be faced with this challenge. For complete show notes, including links to items mentioned in this episode and a transcript of the show, visit the show page.

Data analytics expert Simon Jackson from Hypergrowth Data joins the hosts to discuss the complexities of choosing the right analytical methodologies, emphasizing the importance of aligning data with real-world problems. They explore the strength of simple methods, considerations for new analysts, and practical advice for navigating the realm of methodologies. The conversation touches on statistical significance, communication with stakeholders, and resources for learning about neural networks and marketing.

The hosts provide advice on navigating uncertainties in analytics work, importance of seeking feedback, engaging clients with dashboards, effective communication strategies, and differences between agency and consultancy roles. They emphasize the significance of asking good questions in analytics, with a touch of playful banter and gratitude at the end.