On this week’s episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan sits down with Jimmy Holmes, Director of Data Management and Business Intelligence. Ryan and Jimmy delve into the critical importance of data quality, with Jimmy highlighting the concept of 'garbage in, garbage out' and the challenges organizations face in prioritizing and managing data effectively. They discuss how to make better decisions using data, emphasizing the importance of aligning data strategies with business strategies and ensuring data reliability. They also touch on the evolution of data tools and the shift towards more efficient and accessible data processes. It’s a great episode you don’t want to miss! Takeaways:Jimmy emphasized the axiom 'garbage in, garbage out', underscoring the imperative need for good data quality. Without quality data, decision-making processes are compromised, leading to potentially flawed business outcomes.Jimmy emphasized the importance of integrating data strategies directly with overall business strategies. This approach ensures that data initiatives support core business objectives, maximizing impact and value.The conversation touched on the advances in data tools and how they've become more user-friendly and integrated into common platforms like Excel. These tools have democratized data analytics, making it accessible to a broader audience within organizations.Jimmy highlighted the necessity of fostering a data culture within organizations, where data is valued as a key asset and its management is seen as everyone's responsibility. This involves training, empowering team members, and encouraging a mindset shift towards data-driven decision making.The discussion also covered the balance between having centralized analytics functions and empowering individual team members with the tools and knowledge to perform their analyses. Finding the right balance is crucial for harnessing the full potential of an organization’s data resources.Quote of the Show:“Garbage in is still garbage out.” - Jimmy HolmesLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-holmes-b93030120/  Company Website: http://www.valaris.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

On this week’s episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan sat down with Darren O’Reilly, Senior Director of Software and Technology at JBT Automated Systems! Darren delves into the importance of using the right data over more data in making decisions, the challenge of managing massive data volumes with the increasing automation and use of robots in operations, stressing the role of AI and ML in improving efficiency and decision-making. It’s an insightful episode you don’t want to miss! Takeaways:Darren emphasizes that the crux of making better decisions lies not in the volume of data collected, but in pinpointing the right data that aligns with organizational goals. This principle is crucial for leaders aiming to enhance decision-making processes.Through real-world examples, including his work in the semiconductor and AGVs industries, Darren demonstrates how predictive maintenance, powered by data analytics and AI, can preempt failures and optimize operations, leading to significant cost savings and increased reliability.The conversation also touches on the challenges businesses face managing and making sense of vast amounts of data. Darren discusses the importance of developing systems that can filter out the noise, focusing on information that directly impacts business objectives.Exploring beyond conventional uses, the discussion reveals how AI and ML are being applied in novel ways across industries, from improving system diagnostics to optimizing inventory management. These insights are particularly valuable for leaders seeking to innovate and stay ahead of technological advancements.The role of data is discussed in driving sustainability efforts, such as reducing waste through more accurate maintenance schedules and operational efficiencies. This perspective aligns with growing consumer and regulatory demands for eco-friendly business practices.Quote of the Show:“If you can help your customers be successful in their business, you're going to be successful in your business.” - Darren O’ReillyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-o-reilly/  Company Website: http://www.jbtc.com/automated-systems Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

On this week’s episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan, sits down with Stephanie Dean, culture builder and idea advocate! Stephanie shares her experiences from her time at Clorox, highlighting her role in analytics enablement, the Digital Leadership Forum she initiated, and the emphasis on creating a culture where analytics is accessible to everyone. Ryan and Stephanie explore the significance of understanding data models, the psychology behind dashboard design, and the transformational impact of data accessibility on businesses. It’s an enlightening episode you don’t want to miss!  Takeaways:Encourage a culture where analytics is seen as a tool for everyone, not just data scientists. This involves providing training and resources that make analytics approachable for all employees.Adopt initiatives like the Digital Leadership Forum that prioritize continuous learning and skill development in analytics. This helps in keeping the workforce updated with the latest in data analytics and decision-making.Leaders should take the initiative to understand and then simplify the concept of data models for their teams. This can be achieved through workshops, seminars, or even informal discussions that break down data models into understandable segments.Use analytics not just as a reporting tool but as a cornerstone for all major decision-making processes. This involves integrating analytics into daily operations and strategic planning sessions.Work towards creating an infrastructure where data is easily accessible to all employees, ensuring that decision-making is not bottlenecked by data silos.Quote of the Show:“Analytics is for everybody. It’s not just for super smart people.” - Stephanie DeanLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-dean-732a24/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

In this episode of Making Better Decisions, host Ryan Sullivan engages with guest Mario Laposse! Ryan and Mario delve into the nuances of using data to make better decisions, emphasizing that data isn't a cure-all but requires correct framing, asking the right questions, and being intentional to derive meaningful insights. Mario also discusses the misalignment between business and data strategy and the importance of integrating them to avoid conflicting goals. It’s an enlightening episode you don’t want to miss!  Takeaways:Data should not be seen as an all-encompassing solution but as a critical tool that requires careful consideration of what leaders are seeking to achieve. Leaders should focus on the quality and relevance of data and ensure questions posed are clear and aligned with organizational goals. Mario points out a common issue where leaders seek answers without framing the right questions, leading to misdirected efforts and resources. Leaders should encourage a culture of curiosity and critical thinking where questions are encouraged to evolve as understanding deepens.A highlighted pitfall is the tendency to use data to confirm pre-existing biases rather than to explore new insights. Leaders need to be aware of their cognitive biases and foster an environment where data is used to challenge and broaden perspectives.The discussion underscores the need for a seamless integration of business and data strategies to ensure they complement rather than conflict with each other. Strategy formulation should involve a holistic view, considering how data strategy supports and enhances overall business objectives. While touching on the role of AI, the conversation remains realistic about its current capabilities and limitations. Adopt AI with clear objectives, starting with specific use cases that offer value and understand that AI is an augmenting tool rather than a substitute for human decision-making. Strategies can be effectively translated into actionable plans, ensuring they are communicated and understood across all levels of an organization. Leaders should ensure that strategic goals are cascaded down in a way that every team member understands their role and contributions towards these goals. Quote of the Show:“Data is not a panacea. It's not the cure-all.” - Mario LaposseLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlaposse/ Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

Today’s guest is an expert with 20+ years of experience in knowledge strategy, information architecture, and information findability solutions. Please welcome Seth Earley, Founder & CEO of Earley Information Science! Seth joins host, Ryan Sullivan, to share his take on data strategy, information architecture, and leveraging data for business outcomes. Seth also dives into the significance of intentional information architecture, semantic models, and knowledge graphs for improved decision-making. It’s an adventurous episode you don’t want to miss! Takeaways:Effective decision-making starts with a clear definition of business objectives and desired outcomes, prioritizing them over mere reliance on tools or processes. By emphasizing objectives, decision-makers can align strategies more closely with overarching goals, enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes.Establishing a robust foundation centered on semantic and data architecture is essential for maximizing the efficacy of technology within any organization. By prioritizing semantic clarity and solid data structures, businesses can enhance their ability to harness technology for strategic advantage. Leaders should recognize that data is merely a tool that needs a purpose. Without understanding the specific needs and strategy of the business, data can't be used effectively.Creating a comprehensive framework for managing data, knowledge, and content within the organization is crucial for optimizing processes and enhancing decision-making capabilities. By establishing such a structure, businesses can ensure efficient data flow, facilitate knowledge sharing, and empower informed decision-making at all levels. Letting an ontology serve as the infrastructure for the organization's data can transform it into a formidable knowledge graph, enabling more precise retrieval and application of information.Leaders and communicators should stay informed on the latest in knowledge architecture and data strategy through books, seminars, and workshops to keep their organization at the forefront of efficient and effective data use.Focus on the actions and strategies that will provide the most significant return on investment (ROI) by asking the critical question of how specific data use aligns with and supports the broader business strategy.Quote of the Show:“Begin your data-driven decision journey with your outcome in mind.” - Seth EarleyLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethearley/  Company Website: https://www.earley.com Book: https://www.earley.com/ai-powered-enterprise-book-seth-earley  Podcast: https://www.earley.com/earley-ai-podcast-home Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

Welcome to Making Better Decisions! This week, host Ryan Sullivan sat down with Jeremy Woods, Facility Director & Area General Manager at CBRE! Jeremy shares insights into his career trajectory within the real estate industry, highlighting the significance of data-driven decision-making, primary research, and personalized insights. He also emphasizes the joy of data analysis, the creation of Competitive Intelligence Reports, and the competitive edge derived from accurate data interpretation. It’s an exciting episode you don’t want to miss! Takeaways:Transparency and access to comprehensive data can significantly boost client trust and interest. Prioritize building trust by showing tangible evidence of your expertise.Simplicity in data analysis can reveal low-hanging fruits and offer significant advantages. Train your team to distill complex information into actionable insights.Verify the accuracy of external data sources by comparing them against known quantities. Develop a healthy skepticism of third-party data and focus on building your own reliable datasets.Customize tools and solutions to suit specific market needs instead of relying on general, outsourced solutions. Adopt a 'driver's seat' approach to navigating industry landscapes.Minimize information asymmetry by being transparent and educational in your dealings. For leaders, being a broker of relevant and accurate information can solidify relationships and build trust.Cultivate personal passion projects to balance professional life. Jeremy's investment in a garage condominium demonstrates the value of having a personal retreat to foster creativity and relaxation.Emphasize the importance of personal branding and how unique hobbies or interests (like Jeremy's love for garage space customization) can reflect and enhance professional identity.Quote of the Show:“I wish people would know that there’s some really cool stuff on the other end of gathering data.” - Jeremy WoodsLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremywoods1/ Company Website: https://www.cbre.com Ways to Tune In:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PpvYXoXjAYl8auDpmShYi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data/id1739178505 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5e2ec300-0c66-4e24-8b01-0586af60235c/making-better-decisions-leaders-in-data Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/making-better-decisions-leader-5672586 Transistor: https://www.makingbetterdecisions.live/episodes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingBetterDecisions/podcasts

This is the trailer for a new podcast sponsored by Canopy Analytic.