In this episode, we dive into the complexities and costs of the modern data stack. Why is it so expensive? Why are there so many tools? And how can we simplify data management without compromising effectiveness? We explore the challenges organisations face with tool overload, the importance of developing the right skills, and the often-confusing world of vendor pricing. We also discuss the potential of open-source solutions, the fragmented ownership of data costs, and why understanding return on investment is critical. At the heart of it all, we emphasize that people and processes are just as important as technology when building a sustainable data strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• The modern data stack is expensive and complex.

• Many organisations struggle with too many tools.

• Simplicity in data management often leads to better results.

• Skills development is crucial for making the most of data.

• Vendor pricing models can be confusing and inconsistent.

• Data cost ownership is often fragmented across teams.

• Open-source solutions offer flexibility but come with risks.

• Understanding ROI is essential for making informed decisions.

• Strong data governance is key to managing costs effectively.

• The analytics workforce is evolving, and staying ahead is crucial.

Chapters

00:00 The Rising Costs of Data Stacks

06:18 Complexity in Modern Data Tools

11:53 The Balance of Skills and Technology

17:47 Vendor Lock-In and Cost Management

23:11 The Challenge of Pricing Models

34:22 Strategies for Simplifying Data Stacks

37:32 The Value of Fit-for-Purpose Technology

40:51 Navigating Open Source in Data Stacks

43:51 Cost Awareness in Tech Choices

45:42 Sustainability and Cost in Data Operations

48:43 The Evolution of Data Teams

53:55 The Future of Data Analytics Workforce

54:45 Fun with Data: Would You Rather?

In this highly anticipated Season 2 opener, Nick Latocha, Andy Mason, and Andy Crossley dive headfirst into the murky waters of self-service analytics. The trio discusses its varying definitions, the challenges of implementation, and its real-world impact—or lack thereof—on decision-making within organisations.

Key highlights include:

• A lively debate on whether "democratising data" is a blessing or just corporate jargon gone rogue.
• Andy Mason's disdain for pie charts and his insights on why good data models are critical for analytics success.
• How ThoughtSpot is revolutionising search-driven analytics (and why Power BI needs to catch up!).
• Why bad data models, despite fancy tools, could lead to high costs and poor decisions.
• A thought-provoking "Would You Rather: Data Edition" game, where the team tackles hilarious yet realistic scenarios like prioritising clean data over executive buy-in or dealing with data breaches vs system outages.

This episode isn't just about analytics tools; it's a deep dive into how businesses use data to improve processes, empower teams, and justify ROI in an ever-evolving data landscape. Tune in for practical takeaways, laugh-out-loud moments, and hard truths about the challenges of being a data professional.

In this episode we speak to Matt Houghton, Data Architect at CDL Software. Nick is running solo for this pint, where he chats to Matt about what a data products is, how to build a data product team and briefly chat about all things AWS - there's probably a whole other episode on that! Finally Nick asks the 3 questions we ask every guest. If you found this episode intersting, please subscribe, like and share.