S02E01 - Self-Service Analytics: Democratisation or Chaos?

In this episode, we dive into the complexities and costs of the modern data stack. Why is it so expensive? Why are there so many tools? And how can we simplify data management without compromising effectiveness? We explore the challenges organisations face with tool overload, the importance of developing the right skills, and the often-confusing world of vendor pricing. We also discuss the potential of open-source solutions, the fragmented ownership of data costs, and why understanding return on investment is critical. At the heart of it all, we emphasize that people and processes are just as important as technology when building a sustainable data strategy.Key Takeaways: • The modern data stack is expensive and complex. • Many organisations struggle with too many tools. • Simplicity in data management often leads to better results. • Skills development is crucial for making the most of data. • Vendor pricing models can be confusing and inconsistent. • Data cost ownership is often fragmented across teams. • Open-source solutions offer flexibility but come with risks. • Understanding ROI is essential for making informed decisions. • Strong data governance is key to managing costs effectively. • The analytics workforce is evolving, and staying ahead is crucial.Chapters00:00 The Rising Costs of Data Stacks06:18 Complexity in Modern Data Tools11:53 The Balance of Skills and Technology17:47 Vendor Lock-In and Cost Management23:11 The Challenge of Pricing Models34:22 Strategies for Simplifying Data Stacks37:32 The Value of Fit-for-Purpose Technology40:51 Navigating Open Source in Data Stacks43:51 Cost Awareness in Tech Choices45:42 Sustainability and Cost in Data Operations48:43 The Evolution of Data Teams53:55 The Future of Data Analytics Workforce54:45 Fun with Data: Would You Rather?

In this highly anticipated Season 2 opener, Nick Latocha, Andy Mason, and Andy Crossley dive headfirst into the murky waters of self-service analytics. The trio discusses its varying definitions, the challenges of implementation, and its real-world impact—or lack thereof—on decision-making within organisations. Key highlights include: A lively debate on whether "democratising data" is a blessing or just corporate jargon gone rogue. Andy Mason's disdain for pie charts and his insights on why good data models are critical for analytics success. How ThoughtSpot is revolutionising search-driven analytics (and why Power BI needs to catch up!). Why bad data models, despite fancy tools, could lead to high costs and poor decisions. A thought-provoking "Would You Rather: Data Edition" game, where the team tackles hilarious yet realistic scenarios like prioritising clean data over executive buy-in or dealing with data breaches vs system outages. This episode isn't just about analytics tools; it's a deep dive into how businesses use data to improve processes, empower teams, and justify ROI in an ever-evolving data landscape. Tune in for practical takeaways, laugh-out-loud moments, and hard truths about the challenges of being a data professional.

In this episode we speak to Matt Houghton, Data Architect at CDL Software. Nick is running solo for this pint, where he chats to Matt about what a data products is, how to build a data product team and briefly chat about all things AWS - there's probably a whole other episode on that! Finally Nick asks the 3 questions we ask every guest. If you found this episode intersting, please subscribe, like and share.

In this episode we speak to Gareth Parkes, Head of Data & Analytics at Sir Robert McAlpine. After a false start by Nick, we get in to how data disrupts industries and talk about how less mature industries can work together to improve their data maturity and share insights across peers. Gareth takes us through answers to our "3 questions we ask everyone" with an interesting answer for who he'd like to have a beer with!

This episode we are joined by problem solver and author Caroline Carruthers. Caroline co-authored The Chief Data Officer's Playbook and is a first generation CDO herself. Andy and Nick talk about the role of the CDO and where the role may progress post its 2nd generation. They talk about what makes a good and, not so good CDO and Caroline's baby - The CDO Summer School: Summer School 2021 - Carruthers And Jackson

In this episode Andy and Nick talk to Nicola Askham about data governance and how to run a successful data governance program. They talk about people being more important than tools, and focus on the outcomes and benefits of a successful data governance program rather than doing it for the sake of it. They wrap things up with the 3 questions they ask all guests and this week Nicola has come prepared! To find out more about the materials Nicola mentions in the Pubcast please visit the links below: https://www.nicolaaskham.com/data-governance-training/ https://www.meetup.com/Data-Governance-Know-How-London/

For the first episode of 2021 Andy and Nick speak to Peter Denby and Thomas Hill of Hyper Group. Punk IPAs in hand, Andy is on juice but more about that in the episode, they debate why personalisation gets bad press and why we should think differently about it. Expect to hear about scrolling through dresses, Russel Crowe, how health care is getting personal and finally the 3 questions we ask every week.  Hyper Group | We focus on the data science behind hyper personalisation (hyper-group.co.uk)

Our guest this time is Greg Detre, former co-founder of Memrise and former Chief Data Scientist at Channel 4. In this episode we discuss what makes a good data scientist and data science team. We dip in to data democratisation, try to avoid COVID-19 and ask our 3 questions we ask every guest. You can find out more about Greg.  You can find out more about Greg on his website here: http://makingdatamistakes.com/ And you can follow The Data Pubcast on Twitter @DataPubcast and Facebook

In this Pint we talk to Bob Michael, Head of Data & DFS. As we sip our beer (and wine) we talk through Bob's career and time at DFS and get in to mutant algorithms, what makes a good data analyst and have a little fun at the end.

The Data Pubcast is all about making data accessible to everyone, even in times of a global pandemic. One thing that Andy and Nick both enjoy is really engaging with the Manchester & Leeds communities, pizza and beer in hand. So, they wanted to take the best bits from their chats with the movers and shakers in the world of data and make it something they could share with everyone. They will be chatting with guests about how they built their career, how they navigate the boardroom and stakeholders, what tech and tools they use - and why - and really getting to know them - all over a beer or two