Connecting Tech and Business

The first thing that struck me in this course was the flexibility of the use of data. I remember the visualizations where you can relate a topic very different from the intended use of the data. This just shows that the world is interconnected and data science is a very useful tool to see the patterns in the world.

This course was also able give an overview of how data science and business are connected which is something that is not taught in other schools. Normally, data science courses focus on teaching the tools and techniques to implement, but neglect to realize or connect these to the “real” world. This creates scientists who are out of the loop and unable to communicate their results to executives.

I like how data science was presented as a tool to answer business objectives and not as the next big thing which is what seems to be happening now. As a management major, the lesson that everything a company does should be geared towards the company’s VMO is always emphasized. Anything that does not help the company towards achieving its goal is a waste of resource.

Another memorable learning was from Stef’s session. She imparted very practical and relatable outside the classroom lessons for someone beginning this journey. She showed that we have to be flexible and to learn from our mistakes. Roles in teams sometimes change based on the situation and we have to learn to adapt and be a team player. We should be willing to go out of our comfort zones to help our team since they will also do the same for us.

Data privacy was also a very important concept to learn. I thought that I knew enough about the topic - to not post my details on social media, to store my personal data properly - but I was able to learn so much more from the NPC. I didn’t know that we had so much rights as data subjects and that we also have responsibilities with regards to this. We have to start being more aware of our actions and the consequences they have. A culture that emphasizes the importance of privacy must be developed in the country to protect all of us.

The importance of ethics was also touched upon in one of the sessions. The case studies were very useful because as implementers of these products, we can sometimes forget that the end does not always justify the means and that there will still be discontent and outcries even though the intentions for doing something are good.