Using insights to win people and solve problems

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Unlocking Solutions with Insights: Winning People and Solving Problems

With data and technology rapidly becoming the backbone of almost every business, it is imperative to take the time to fully understand the power of insights and how they can advance your strategy. I'm currently exploring insights for Buku Arun, a YC 20 company aiming to aid microbusinesses in Indonesia by promoting financial literacy and providing a financial platform for business growth.

My Journey with Data and Insights

While studying for a Master’s in Entrepreneurship, I recall a marketing class where we discussed the rivalry between Pepsi and Coca Cola. To my surprise, the class revolved around Excel sheets rather than branding strategies and customer voices. This was a turning point for me as I understood the integral role that data can play in even the most creative fields. Fast forward 5-6 years, I now appreciate the importance of using data insights to win people over and generate rich solutions.

The Ubiquity of Data

"Data is everywhere" is a mantra that I adhere to. Every action we take – from opening an app on our smartphones to taking a picture – generates data. To put it into perspective, we send around 16 million text messages, 1 million Tinder swipes, and 165 million emails every minute. By 2025, it is projected that we will generate 175 zettabytes of data (1 Zettabyte = 1 billion Terabytes).

Transforming Data into Insight

The challenge lies not in gathering data, but in converting this data into informative insights. Here is a six-step approach to help you navigate the process:

  1. Curiosity: Probe every aspect of the problem, from tiny details to the broader overview.
  2. Embrace Imperfection: Tolerating ambiguity and working with messy or incomplete data can often lead to innovative solutions.
  3. A Dragonfly Eye: View the problem through a multifaceted lens to gain a comprehensive understanding.
  4. Relentless Experimentation: Start with a hypothesis, then scrutinize the data to reach a conclusion.
  5. Collective Intelligence: Instead of relying on a single perspective, gather insights from different individuals for a more balanced view.
  6. Show and Tell: Storytelling is an effective way to explain insights, making it easier for individuals to understand and resonate with your findings.

Winning People with Insights

The value of insights is only realized when shared effectively with your team. To ensure this, remember the following:

  • Perspective: Understand your own perspective and that of your audience.
  • Know Your Audience: Understand what the audience is looking to learn from your insights.
  • Outcome Not Output: Focus on the implications of your findings, not just the findings themselves.
  • Challenge the norm: Don't be afraid to present an alternative theory.
  • Ask For Help: Sometimes, seeking help is the best way to fully understand and solve a problem.

Indeed, problems are merely solutions waiting to be found. With a comprehensive understanding of data, you can create meaningful insights that will help you solve problems and win people over. Coupled with effective communication and a deep understanding of your audience, these insights can help you indeed make a recognizable difference.


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