In this episode of Behind the Data, Matthew Stibbe interviews Will Critchlow, founder and CEO of SearchPilot. They discuss the impact of AI on technology and data, the workings of SearchPilot in optimizing SEO for large websites, and the challenges of understanding Google's algorithms. Will shares insights on choosing the right data for SEO analysis, the importance of statistical validity, and the need for effective data storytelling in business. The conversation emphasizes the evolving landscape of data analytics and the critical role of intellectual humility in decision-making.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI and Data Trends 10:20 Decoding Google's Black Box 21:12 Statistical Validity in Data Analysis 31:13 Improving Data Analysis Techniques 39:34 Key Takeaways for Data Teams

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this episode, Matthew Stibbe interviews Markus Kolic from Sun Life. They dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI and data engineering, exploring both the hype and the hands-on realities within large, established organizations. The conversation begins with a look at the extraordinary possibilities around generative AI, while also acknowledging the current overexcitement and uncertainty. Markus discusses how true, long-term value will come from careful experimentation—often by small, innovative teams—rather than flashy marketing claims.

He then shifts to the challenges of integrating complex legacy systems in enterprise environments. The “Strangler pattern” is highlighted as a practical approach to gradually replace aging infrastructures with modern web-based applications. Markus stresses that success depends on well-structured data models, careful mapping, and documentation that evolves over time. Tools like CloverDX and version control platforms such as GitHub bring agility, transparency, and accountability to data transformations.

Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes that data engineering is about people and understanding their needs. Despite the complexity and chaos of new technologies, the end goal remains delivering meaningful, human-centered information that genuinely improves processes and experiences.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this episode of Behind the Data, Matthew Stibbe interviews Alan Moss, Director of Data Strategy at Growth Zone. They discuss the evolving landscape of data storage, the challenges of data wrangling, and the role of Clover DX in managing data effectively. Alan shares his personal journey in the data field, the importance of understanding membership data for associations, and how technology has enabled better insights and reporting. The conversation highlights the significance of adapting to new technologies and the continuous learning required in the data management field.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this episode of Behind the Data, Matthew Stibbe interviews Michael Lintonen, director of technology at VasoHealthcare. They discuss the exciting growth of open source in data technology, the unique data landscape at VasoHealthcare, and the challenges of communicating complex data insights to non-technical stakeholders. Michael shares insights on a recent project involving GE ultrasound sales, the importance of rapid prototyping with tools like Excel, and the role of CloverDX in managing data workflows. The conversation also touches on the evolving challenges in data integration and offers valuable advice for future data professionals.

Takeaways

• The growth of open source is reshaping data technology.
• VasoHealthcare specializes in contract sales for healthcare equipment.
• Most data at VasoHealthcare comes from external sources, not generated internally.
• Excel can be a powerful tool for rapid prototyping.
• It's crucial to keep KPIs focused and manageable.
• CloverDX provides transparency and modularity in data processes.
• The data landscape is becoming increasingly complex and challenging.
• Communication with non-technical stakeholders is a significant hurdle.
• Failing fast can lead to faster growth and learning.
• Simplicity in tools is essential for empowering tech teams.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this episode of Behind the Data, host Matthew Stibbe speaks with Andy Coulson, a cloud architect at Epicor, about the emerging trends in data engineering, particularly the integration of AI and machine learning. They discuss the challenges of implementing AI in data systems, the transformation of Epicore's auto catalog, and the architectural decisions behind it. Andy shares insights on data management, the importance of understanding data volumes, and lessons learned from data integration projects, including the need for foresight in planning.

Takeaways

• AI and machine learning are transforming data engineering.
• Prompt engineering is crucial for effective AI integration.
• Epicore is moving towards a cloud-native architecture.
• Graph databases offer unique advantages for data relationships.
• User experience is a key consideration in AI applications.
• Data normalization is essential for effective data management.
• Understanding data volumes is critical for performance.
• Iterative development has its place, but so does rigorous planning.
• Collaboration with domain experts enhances project success.
• Foresight in data integration can prevent future challenges.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this conversation, James Courtney-Smith, a solutions consultant with Lucid Data Services, discusses current trends in data engineering and technology. He highlights four areas of interest: AI and its potential, the importance of data governance, data security and privacy, and the need for effective data visualization. James also shares his role as the product owner of Market Business Glossary, a centralized resource for accessing data standards and reference data in the insurance industry. He emphasizes the significance of data ownership, stakeholder management, and education in successful data projects.

• AI is an emerging technology that has the potential to transform various industries, but its true capabilities and impact are still uncertain.
• Data governance, including security, stewardship, ownership, and data quality, is a crucial aspect of effective data management.
• Data security and privacy, especially in the context of GDPR and ownership of personal data, are important considerations in the data landscape.
• Effective data visualization plays a significant role in presenting information and insights to the correct audience.
• In the insurance industry, having a centralized resource like Market Business Glossary can provide access to data standards and reference data, ensuring consistency and quality in data usage.
• Successful data projects require a focus on data ownership, stakeholder management, and education to align business needs with technology solutions.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

In this episode of Behind the Data, Matthew Stibbe interviews David Howell, Director of IT and Digital Transformation at Chugai Europe. They discuss the exciting developments in the world of data, such as AI and machine learning, and the risks and challenges that data professionals need to be mindful of. David shares insights into Chugai Europe's digital transformation journey, focusing on simplification, efficiency, and automation. They also explore the importance of data quality, naming conventions, and management buy-in. David highlights a specific data integration project using CloverDX and emphasizes the need for the right tools to achieve project goals.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

Chris Van Doorn, founder of C-Data, discusses the importance of data visualization, data literacy, and the challenges of data integration. He shares insights from a recent project and emphasizes the need for a good understanding of business requirements in data projects.

Key Takeaways

• Data literacy is essential for both data users and consumers.
• Understanding business requirements is crucial for successful data projects.
• Data integration involves understanding the business processes and facilitating them with technology.
• The role of a business analyst is becoming increasingly important in data projects.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing

Todd Schnirel and Jennifer McCalicher from Airline Hydraulics discuss how they use data in their organization and the challenges they've overcome. They cover topics such as data sources, data formats, ERP systems, automation, and the human impact of data transformation.

Key takeaways:

• How to say 'yes' to the data. Data comes from various sources including suppliers, customers, and sales teams, and arrives in different formats such as text files, raw data, and JSON files and Airline wants to work with suppliers where they are.
• The use of data integration tools like Clover DX helps in managing and transforming data for e-commerce and inventory management.
• The human impact of data transformation is significant. It frees employees from manual data entry and allows them to explore new roles and opportunities within the organization.

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Hosted by Matthew Stibbe from Articulate Marketing