Understanding Data: Alexis Ohanian's Insight on Business Metrics
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Chapter 1: The Importance of Data Over Adjectives
Recently, I was pleasantly surprised to see a tweet from Alexis Ohanian, one of Reddit's founders, which emphasized a critical point in the realm of data: the excessive use of descriptive words instead of concrete data.
Ohanian noted, "I used to love adjectives. I still do, actually. But becoming a CEO taught me to purge them in favor of data. Your last quarter wasn’t 'strong' or 'great' — you 'had ##% growth QoQ.' I’m now so sensitive that I’m default skeptical when I hear an adjective instead of the data."
Data Over Adjectives
In many cases, business decisions are based on the subjective opinions of experts. This reliance can lead to decisions influenced by vague terms like "great" or "fantastic," rather than by solid statistics. It's crucial to approach these adjective-laden business evaluations with caution and to prioritize data.
As Ohanian wisely advises, skepticism about business performance is warranted when it is conveyed through adjectives instead of data. As data professionals, it is essential to present clear figures and let stakeholders draw their own conclusions. While guiding discussions based on the numbers is valuable, overlooking the vital step of data presentation can create an impression of opacity. Does the data substantiate your claims?
Photo by ThisisEngineering RAEng on Unsplash
Section 1.1: A Data-Driven Approach
Once you recognize the distinction between adjectives and data, you'll notice it everywhere in your professional environment. While you may have preferred the previous style of business discussions, embracing a data-centric approach is beneficial.
Encourage your colleagues to support their claims with data when they use terms like "great" or "strong." Their viewpoints may indeed be valid, but it is your responsibility to verify those assertions through data. Never accept claims without the backing of solid numbers!
Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Data in Decision Making
Data serves as an invaluable ally in the decision-making process. As Alexis Ohanian cautions, if business evaluations are framed in adjectives rather than data, it’s prudent to remain skeptical. Always request assessments grounded in data, and feel free to engage in adjective-laden discussions afterward.
Chapter 2: Going Forward
In this insightful video, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman discusses strategies for revitalizing the social network, emphasizing the importance of data in decision-making processes.
In this episode of "Real Talk," a Reddit data scientist shares valuable insights into how data influences the company's strategies and operations.
Until next time…
Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or Twitter if you have any questions about navigating the world of data professionalism!