Using data to manage is nothing new. But using big data to manage IS new, offering unprecedented challenges, opportunity, and risk. Senior executives need to learn and learn quickly. They must be prepared to ask penetrating questions when their data scientists bring them a new idea. Those who ask the following questions will be better prepared to both exploit the valuable insights and avoid the disasters that can arise from big — but bad — data.
When your data scientists bring you an idea, ask them the following:
1. What problem are you trying to solve? It is far too easy for data scientists (and others for that matter) to go on extended "fishing expeditions," seeking "interesting insights" that aren't tethered to the business. While a certain amount of exploration is healthy, most innovation is of the small-scale, one improvement at a time, variety — even with data. Encourage your data scientists to focus initially on known issues and opportunities, as well as more tangible insights. As confidence grows, your data scientists should be less restrained. And you should develop a keen eye for the difference between "exploring a difficult path" and "wallowing around."
To read the full, original article click on this link: Seven Questions to Ask Your Data Geeks - Thomas C. Redman and Bill Sweeney - Harvard Business Review
