Balancing Brilliance and Practicality: The Sustainability Challenge for Analysts & Data Scientists.
A few quick insights from the last two weeks “out in the field.”
Let's be real here, fellow industry professionals. In our field, we're surrounded by brilliant minds – data scientists, operations research analysts, and industrial engineers who have mastered the art of coding and data science wizardry. These experts, many of whom hold advanced degrees from prestigious institutions, spend countless hours crafting complex algorithms and crunching numbers like it's a casual stroll in the park.
But before we get too carried away with admiration, we need to address a critical concern: sustainability. Analysts must ensure they stay true to the profession's roots – support the achievement of the organizations’ goals and, a key piece of the puzzle, user acceptance. Software is a means to achieve this, not the actual goal.
Consider this: while these products are indeed impressive, they often overlook a crucial aspect – sustainability. Yes, they're breathtakingly beautiful, but are they truly systems that can be easily replicated and maintained when the current crop of geniuses inevitably moves on to greener pastures?
Herein lies the crux of our dilemma. We've become enamored with the allure of complexity, sacrificing user-friendliness and long-term viability in the process. Remember the wise words (paraphrased) of Dr. Gene Woolsey, a true pioneer in industrial engineering – sometimes, a "good enough" solution that is consistently used is far more optimal than a flawless masterpiece gathering dust on the proverbial shelf.
For example, consider the numerous enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems that, despite their sophisticated design, fail to be adopted by users due to their complexity. In contrast, simpler tools like Microsoft Office Suite, though less advanced, are widely used because of their accessibility and ease of use.
So, let's take a step back and reevaluate our priorities. While we shouldn't undervalue the brilliance of our analysts, we must also remember that true innovation lies in striking a balance between technical prowess and practical usability. Only then can we create sustainable solutions that stand the test of time and serve the needs of our end-users.
It's a delicate dance, this pursuit of excellence and longevity. But with a little humility and a lot of foresight, we can indeed have our cake and eat it too. Let's strive for solutions that not only dazzle with their brilliance but also endure through their practicality and usability.
Storm King Recommendations:
Data Newsletter.
The Alternative Data Weekly Substack, curated by John Farrall, is an absolute must-read for anyone interested in the field of data and data science. Each week, Farrall masterfully curates an incredibly diverse array of articles, blogs, and podcasts covering the latest trends, innovations, and insights in the data world. His expert summaries and key takeaways distill complex topics into easily digestible morsels, saving readers valuable time while keeping them on the cutting edge. John's ability to surface thought-provoking content from disparate sources is unparalleled, making Alternative Data Weekly an indispensable resource for data professionals looking to expand their knowledge and stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're a seasoned data scientist or just dipping your toes into the field, this substack is guaranteed to broaden your horizons and inspire new ways of thinking about data.
Podcasts.
For a truly insightful and authoritative perspective on the 20th anniversary of the Iraq War, make time to listen to (a close friend and collaborator with the Storm King team) Dr. Ike Wilson's recent podcast with the Department of Social Sciences at West Point. Ike brings a unique and multi-faceted background to bear - as a combat veteran, former Army aviator, strategist, respected academic, and leading voice calling for change in America's security policies. Having served as Chief of the Commander's Initiatives Group at US Central Command as well as a professor and director of West Point's Grand Strategy Program, Dr. Wilson offers a rare combination of real-world military experience and scholarly expertise. His celebrated book Thinking Beyond War further underscores his credibility in examining why the U.S. so often struggles to secure lasting peace. With his remarkable credentials, Ike provides invaluable historical context, nuanced strategic analysis, and forward-looking insights that will challenge assumptions and shed new light on this defining conflict.