The Analytics Training Opportunity of a Lifetime

Over the past 5 years I have worked hard to become one of the more established analytics brands in the Philippines.

My company provides 24/7 service via both home based and office based analytics staffing solutions.

As an analytics expert with over 20 years of experience I am confident we can handle just about any kind of analytics requirement.

We offer publics trainings quarterly, conduct in house analytics trainings regularly and I am consistently being invited to be a resource speaker.

The need for analytics is booming. Big data and technological innovation has made analytics one of the hottest needs on the planet.

There are only a few, probably less then a dozen actually, training companies offering analytics training in the Philippines.

The need is high for companies in the Philippines to get this specialized training.

The number of analyst jobs is projected to continue to grow almost exponentially for the foreseeable future.

U.S. companies will continue to look to the Philippines as a source for analytics talent and outsourcing options regardless of the political winds blowing across the Pacific.

Although machine learning and artificial intelligence may limit some of analytics jobs in the future, that is not of the near term horizon for most Filipino companies.

So, when I survey the analytics landscape in the Philippines, I am convinced DMAIPH is on the right path and even great success lies ahead.

Back in 2011, setting up an analytics company in the Philippines seemed like an idea ahead of its time.

Now, is 2016, my belief in the Philippines being a place to champion analytics and foster a culture of more data-driven decision-making has proved to be right on target.

As we look to 2017, the opportunity to empower even more Filipinos to be analysts and use analytics in their business looks even brighter. It is indeed the opportunity of a lifetime!

Which Analytics Training Is For You?

From my perspective analytics training options fall into the following categories:

Introduction to and/or Overview of Analytics
Technical Training on Specific Analytics Topics
Data Science/Advanced Analytics Training

Knowing which type of training you are selecting is super important as people just starting to get comfortable with analytics will probably be lost in a data science training.

On the flip side, a seasoned data geek will get bored in a introduction or overview class.

SO how can you tell which is which?

Here are a few suggestion on how to separate the intro classes from the technical classes from the data science classes .

First, most people who train on predictive analytics, using lots of math, statistics and building data models are probably talking data science. To get your bang for your buck in these classes you need to have a lot of exposure to the science side of analytics and be completely comfortable finding, analyzing and reporting data.

Second, if you are already working with data and you have specific tools you are working with for specific data functions, then you might be best served by going to a technical centric training. Like if you are using a tool like Tableau or Qlik or IBM Cognos to do marketing analytics or sending workforce management reports.

That leaves people who are either new to the idea of analytics or are just not sure where to start. Then you need an overview of analytics to figure out what you need in your business. Once you have a handle on your data, then you can really focus on certain technical aspects and get into data science.

The training I am conducting on November 22 is of the third kind. I will be giving an overview of various analytics techniques and technologies and introducing you to a variety of concepts to make the idea of using data to make decisions a reality.

On February, 21, 2017 I will be hosting a training on Data Analytics. E-mail us at analytics@dmaiph.com to register or get more info.

As a bonus, all attendees will also get a copy of my new book, Putting Your Data to Work. It’s a guidebook specifically designed for Filipino professionals looking to up their analytics games.

Analytics Training – DMAIPH offers a wide range of analytics centric training solutions for professionals and students via public, in-house, on-site, and academic settings. We tailor each training event to meet the unique needs of the audience. If you need empowerment and skills enhancement to optimize the use of analytics in your organization, we are here to help. Contact DMAIPH now at analytics@dmaiph.com or connect with me directly to set up a free consultation on which of our DMAIPH analytics training solutions is best for you.

Promote Your Own Data Geeks

In analytics, there has been a huge boom lately in trying to find data scientists, who like a superhero, can do everything well and swoop in and take a company’s analytics to a whole new level. They are called unicorns as in creatures that really don’t exist.

One thing that has always amazed me about the culture of so many businesses is the belief that bringing in someone from the outside when there are good people on the inside.

Occasionally I come across the argument that its better to build a data science team from within as opposed to looking for a data scientist who can code, analyze, build models, understand higher math, communicate with non-technical leaders and understand the business.

In many cases the sum of the parts can give you a great solution that in the long run is better for the business then finding someone who is all the parts in one.

To do that, you need to understand your people and what they can do. You have to then understand what skills they need to add to be awesome at analytics. Generally, it’s just a matter of training and empowerment to push the envelope.

I look for people who have these 3 qualities before assessing technical skill and job fit.

First I assess their work ethic based on job experience, educational achievement and reasons behind their transitions in life. Note that internal hires already have a track record to assess work ethic.

Second I assess their curiosity based on assessment responses and problem solving during the interview process. Again, people who have been with you most likely have routinely demonstrated the curiosity.

Third I ask them to analyze something. Looking for how they approach data, how they analyze it and how they report it. Again, compare what data you have on hand versus the data of what might or not be valid.

After that, just about anything can be added via training, mentoring, coaching and self-empowerment.

It’s a lot easier for me to work with a known quality and build them up then it is to take in someone who is largely unknown and roll the dice that things will work out.

But don’t take my opinion. Look at your data.

What % of new hires succeed. What % of promotion succeed? I’ll be shocked if you find that new hires add more value to your organization then veterans who are rewarded with new challenges.

So before you go out in the hyper competitive job market for a data geek, make sure you don’t have some people already on your payroll who can rise up and do the job.

If you need help assessing the inner data geek of your current staff, let me know. I can help you come up with roadmaps towards data geekdom that you can use to build a kick ass analytics team better than just about any data scientist aka unicorn you hire off the street.

Analytics Jobs – DMAIPH hires, refers and connects Filipino analytics talent. The Philippines is at the center of the action when it comes to solutions to the global need for analytics. Working with DMAIPH to find work, hire analytics talent or set up analytics teams will ensure you are tapped into the best of the best when it comes to analytics in the Philippines. Contact DMAIPH now at analytics@dmaiph.com or connect with me directly to find out how to take advantage of this booming opportunity.

Creative Ways to Access Big Data Talent

http://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2016/09/16/5-creative-ways-to-access-big-data-talent/#6baf4eec580c

Came across this blog post and thought I worth sharing and talking about.

“Demand for big data expertise is growing every day, as more and more companies become aware of the benefits of collecting and analyzing data.”

Just take a look at jobs boards now and from postings a year ago. You can see the number of jobs with analyst or data scientist in them grow like crazy.

“Unfortunately, the number of people trained to analyze this data isn’t growing in line with the demand.”

It shouldn’t be too hard to start guessing at the total number of data geeks needed in today’s global economy. For the sake of argument, if you figure every company with at least 100 employees needs someone to handle internal analytics and every company with at least 1000 customers’ needs someone to handle external analytics… it’s a mindboggling number.

“This creates a challenge for companies looking to hire expert people, especially for smaller firms less able to compete on salary and benefits.”

Not only can big companies invest in top analytics talent, they can also use business Intelligence tools, AI and machine learning to automate data jobs. Smaller companies are not only competing for talent, they are up against huge technology hurdles as well.

“The good news is that, even if you’re having trouble recruiting data scientists because of stiff competition, or if you simply haven’t got the budget to recruit, you can still access big data skills.”

And that is what I agree with 100%. You have to get creative. Going outside to hire someone to come in and manage your data and analytics, to be a data scientist, you are forgetting one key thing. To make use of all the technology out there and to be able to really get value out of analytics techniques, you need to understand the needs of the business.

In the end, what makes a business analyst, data scientist or big data expert successful has nothing to do with how well they can code, build models or blend data. It has to do first and foremost with can they understand the business in ways to put their big brains to work to solve problems and answer questions relevant to the business.

That is the dilemma. You need people on the inside who know the business, but you can’t get a data super hero to come work for you.

To that end here are my 5 ways to get the most out of your data talent without going outside to hire.

Promote and empower your own data geeks.
Send your team outside to get training from a pro.
Bring in an expert as a consultant and mentor your team.
Get intern/OJT help from local colleges to bring in new perspectives.
Outsource some of your data initiatives to experts and learn from them.

With each of these options, there are significant challenges. As I said before, the best solutions is finding someone with business acumen that pertains to your business.

I will go into more detail with each of these options over the next few blog posts.

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Promote Your Own Data Geeks

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Get Trained By the Analytics Pros

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Find Your Team A Mentor

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Infuse Your Business with Fresh Analytics Talent

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Outsourcing Analytics To Experts Is Not A One Way Street

DMAIPH Marketing Analyst Job Opening

DMAIPH is looking for a marketing analyst.

Primary responsibility is marketing public and in-house analytics workshops. Secondary responsibilities include promoting analytics publications, facilitating speaking engagements and managing online profiles for Daniel Meyer, our founder and one of the top analytics experts in the Philippines.

Experience with Digital Marketing and Analytics required.

Familiarity with running marketing campaigns on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Comfort with using MS Excel for basic analysis and reporting.
Basic knowledge in Adobe Photoshop

Able to create, update and share marketing content including blog posts, email blitz mailings, power point presentations and speaker bios.

Must be open to flexible hours and duties. This is not a typical office based, 40 hours a week, week days only position.

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A certain % of the job can be done at home or office depends on the business needs, but the marketing analyst will need to meet in Ortigas with the senior leader a few times a month. Also must be able to help facilitate occasional speaking events. Flexibility is key.

This is a flexible, project position with salary and compensation package dependent on experience.

Interested applicants should send their resume to analytics@dmaiph.com

Three Things About the Philippines I Love

First, I love where it sits on the map. The weather suits me, I love being by water and the global position brings limitless opportunity. Couldn’t pick a better place to live most of the 2^nd half of my life.

Second, I love the spirt of the people. So many reasons to be a sad and depressing place to live. Yet, Filipinos are generally the nicest and most hospitable people on the planet. Driven by both national pride and the need to be part of the global community. Filipino smiles are everywhere.

Third, I love that I am needed. I can do a lot of good no matter where I am. Being an awesome analyst and teaching people to use analytics is something I can do anywhere. But I don’t think any place on the planet needs what I do more now than the Philippines. The future of the global analytics talent pool is uniquely tied to the Philippines.

So now you know a little more about why I do what I do where I do it most! 🙂

My Analytics Story – My passion is solving problems by bringing together the best talent, cutting edge technology and tried and true methodologies. DMAIPH is all about empowering people towards better Decision-Making through the use Analytics and business Intelligence. This is what I do best. Contact DMAIPH now at analytics@dmaiph.com or connect with me directly for a free consultation about getting more analytics into your career and your business.

Why I Believe in the Philippines

About 5 years ago I decided to leave behind my analytics career with Wells Fargo, move 6,000 miles away and set up a new business in the Philippines.

My belief in the Philippines was fueled by two key factors.

One based on observation and one based on data. I imagine that when a person looks at life changing decisions like the one I made back in 2011, they tend to be heavy on what they see (and therefore feel) and not so much on what is not so easy to see (what the data suggests).

I knew I would like it in the Philippines. I don’t like being cold. I love being near water. I grew up around a lot of Filipinos so I am very comfortable being immersed in the culture. Filipinos by and large are nice, hospitable and easy to get along with. The basic needs in life would be meet for me if I lived in the Philippines.

However, I was not looking to retire in comfort like so many Americans who end up in the Philippines are motivated by. I was looking to set up a business. And not just any business but one I am passionate about.

My passion is analytics. Using data to drive more intelligent decision-making is something I know well. And I am good at talking about it. My deepest satisfaction comes from helping students and young professionals unlock the analyst inside of them.

The big question that I needed to answer with data though, was could I set up a business and make a living in the Philippines talking about analytics. Training, consulting, public speaking… would there be enough of it for me to pay the bills.

Based on the expected economic growth of the Philippines. Based on the young, tech savvy and English speaking work force. Based on the boom on the BPO industry. Based on the strategic importance of the Philippines. Based on the quickening demand for analytics talent against a shallow supply.

Every box checked off yes. The data pointed to one direction. Setting up an analytics business in the Philippines would be not only financially positive but would allow me to do what I do best. Be an analytics champion.

So that is why I believe so deeply in the Philippines. The emotional connection that comes from being in the Philippines combined with the opportunity so finely illustrated by the data and analysis.

With every step forward this belief is edified.

With every step backward, this belief is only strengthened.

Persevere. Keep going. Enjoy the success and live past the failures. Never give up and never surrender.

This is something that is special about the both my story and the story of the Filipino people.

I am blessed with being able to do what I love in a place where I am needed and can make a difference. It feels like destiny.

That is why I believe in the Philippines.

The Analytics I See While Sitting @ Taco Bell

I know I a total analytics nerd.

While sitting a taco bell I started thinking of all the data and analysis that this places creates.

So I’ll imagine I’m the franchise owner. Obviously my biggest concern is making a profit.

Its 9am on a weekday morning. Not very busy. Come to think of it, I have been to this location several times and have never seen it very busy. I’m sure they have peak times, but I have never seen one.

So let me take a step back and think about things like an analyst advising the owner.

First off, what % of profit comes from what time and day of the week. Defining peak times is something most business owners deal with to make sure they are staffed correctly.

Being optimal with staffing is one way successful businesses prosper and unsuccessful ones fail. Idle employees quickly become bad employees and overworked employees also become bad employees. There are two customers inside, just the occasional drive through customer, yet there are 6 employees here. Way more than needs to be I think. Looking at the data would undoubtedly tell the whole story and allow better workforce planning decisions.

The 2^nd thing that comes to mind is the competition. Taco Bell is rarely thought of as a morning option. There are literally a dozen Starbucks within 5 minute’s drive and as least as many other coffee places.

Then you have the fact this location is between a McDonalds, a Jack in a Box and a Nation’s. All places with a much higher top of mind appeal when it comes to a quick breakfast. The menu and pricing is most likely tied to corporate requirements, but to compete in this crowded marketplace you need to be good and you need to be cheap.

They have a pretty good $1 menu selection. That’s good because it means it’s cheaper than just about anywhere else around. TB also have a lot of unique offerings. So that is good. Finding ways to market those positives locally is probably a good place to look into the data.

Where, when and how can this location interact with potential customers to get TB higher up on the list of breakfast options. Lots of data there to be gathered and analyzed about both the completion and the demographics of current and potential customers.

The third thing that caught my attention is its calm here. Easy rock playing on the radio. No TVs. No kid’s playground. Not a lot of hustle and bustle.

I ended up writing 4 blog posts while sitting here. I also recall that on a recent visit someone was working on a laptop while here. Its not a bad place to get some work done. So looking at who comes in, how long they stay and what they do while they are here is worthwhile.

So, that is what analysts do. They observe, they collect, they analyze, they offer suggestions. Then they monitor, they measure, they report trends and uncover opportunities.

If I was working for the owner here, the data would probably back up my observations and suggest something like this…

Send someone to the local retirement communities (there are several in the area) to offer some kind of special loyalty program to people who dine in on weekday mornings. Make sure the staff is engaged with that demographic. Offer things that the competition does not and make a big deal about it.

All of this can be based on data, measured and refined using data and in the end increase the profitability of this location.

This is what I do in my spare time. Imagine what I can do to help you use analytics to increase your profits and optimized your business.

Small Business Analytics – The field of small business analytics is just starting to blossom as companies are looking for more data-driven decision-making to prosper in the age of Big Data. DMAIPH is at the fore front of providing analytics training, consulting and outsourcing options to small businesses. Contact DMAIPH now at analytics@dmaiph.com or connect with me directly to set up a free consultation on how to get more analytics in your small business.

Why I Know I Can Help

All my life I have enjoyed helping people.

I tutored a lot throughout my education.

In college I set out to be a teacher. To not just help, but to educate.

Being in a classroom was not enough, as I learned the whole world can be a classroom.

As my skills in analytics increased, my ability to help more people make data-driven decisions increased as well.

Now I am at a point where I know a lot about a lot.

Now I have gotten pretty good at sharing what I know in ways that empowers and inspires others.

I have been doing this for several years now.

Talking about analytics, blogging about data-driven decision-making and writing books about how to use analytics.

This is why I know I can help you too.

Everyone needs help finding the right data.

Everyone can use new perspectives on how to conduct analysis.

Everyone benefits from sharing data and analysis to drive a strategy forward or to solve problems.

14285276_10154554275492425_804549674_o Big or small. Old or new. No matter what industry. All companies need to unlock the insights in their data to be successful.

Some do it a lot better than others. A few may actually be so good at what they do that it may seem they don’t need help. But odds are you are not one of them.

Data is everywhere. We all do some sort of analytics. But we never have enough.

Being an analytics champion, striving to help people be better at what they do is what I am all about.

That is why I know I can help you.

My Passion for Analytics > Why I Do What I Do

With each morning, I wake up and feel a renewed sense of purpose.

A new day, another chance to use my brain to solve problems.

Some days it a project for a client, some days it’s a new batch of people waiting to be empowered to do more analytics, and some days it’s a more personal use of analytics to solve life challenges.

We are all in our own ways, analytical. We all use data in our decision-making, even if many don’t really see it. There is so much data in our lives that everyone practices analytics.

But what set’s me and people like me apart is that we are passionate about using data in our analysis. We are constantly looking for new data sources, to validate existing data and find ways to integrate it into what we do.

People like me often end up being analysts by profession. It is a good use of our innate curiosity and belief that just about any question can be answered if you have the right data.

A lot of analysts do seem to be more intelligent and probably more nerdy then many people. That goes with being reflective, taking educated guesses and not being overly emotional when it comes to decisions.

Finding people like me is something I constantly do. Talking about our data and sharing are analysis and partnering with each other to solve problems.

When you have a group of friends like this, you do great things in life. When you have a team of workers like this, you have a data-driven business.

So I talk about my story a lot. How I got to be a great analyst. How I have enjoyed a satisfying career and been successful in business. There are a lot of people who have similar dreams and similar abilities.

They just need to be empowered. To have the curiosity unleased. To be surrounded by people in both life and work that push them to use their analytics talent to do bigger and better things.

When you have the right data, being analyzed by great people, you end up with amazing results.

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That is why I love what I do.

That is how I wake up every day with a sense of passion about my ability to make a difference in the world.

If you follow my blog, read my book or are connected with me on social media, then you are probably wondering how to find a conduit for your passion for data and analysis too.

And that means there is a reason to get up tomorrow morning and do it all over again.

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