Colour theory in data visualisation
One of the things I love about being a data analyst is the breadth of the skillset required. My neurospicy brain loves to learn new things and make connections. While …
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About Me
I’m Pete Marsden, a data analyst with 12 years experience spanning e-commerce, non-profit and SaaS.
My approach is very much product-based. I take time to understand the pain points and priorities of different teams, and work closely with them to produce data products that are optimised for their needs. I think this dialogue is essential if data products are to succeed. Without it – however good they are – dashboards will sit unused.
I also love to explore data, identifying and understanding patterns, looking for opportunities to improve performance or prevent loss.
I’ve worked with a variety of tools over the years but SQL and Tableau have been my main focus. SQL for data modelling and preparation, Tableau for visualisation and data products. However, the core principles of data modelling and manipulation are at the centre of my approach. With a strong, conceptual understanding, it’s easy enough to adapt to new tools, or even learn a new language.
My Vision
To seamlessly integrate analytics into processes and decision making.
Why?
Let’s unpack that a bit…
Most organisations run on Excel, with hundreds, thousands, maybe tens of thousands of scattered, unconnected spreadsheets. Often ill-maintained, error-ridden and full of arcane logic. Using and maintaining this chaotic data lake often accounts for 10-20% of operational and management teams’ time and energy.
Imagine, instead, all the analytics you need embedded in the systems you use. Stock ordering data right there in the stock management system; operational data embedded in operational software; sales and marketing data right there in the CRM. All the information needed to keep the wheels turning is there, exactly where it’s needed, accurate and up-to-date. The data team who make this happen account for maybe 1-2% of your workforce.
In terms of data-informed strategy, most decisions are made on the basis of data that’s been exported to Excel, tortured by people who don’t really understand what they’re doing and pasted into PowerPoint presentations. This is often true even when there is a data team producing timely, accurate and useful management information.
Imagine, instead, execs getting exactly the information they need to take the pulse of the business, direct to their inbox in mobile/cell phone format. Accurate, up-to-date and unbiased.
Imagine senior staff having access to intuitive dashboards clearly showing how well they’re performing, along with intuitive, interactive tools to help them understand why.
Imagine the data team who’ve built – and automated – all this freed up to do deep analytical dives to answer key questions, test hypotheses and forecast outcomes.
None of this is pie in the sky. It’s a living reality in some organisations and it’s possible anywhere. It just takes a bit of vision, hard work and a willingness to change the way things are done.
The last bit is the real hurdle.
