Life Science Leadership in the Advent of Big Data
By Jim Rudman, CEO, Ashton Tweed
In the world of Big Data, businesses need leaders who both understand the expansive data available to them and know how to take advantage of and recognize the opportunities it presents. Within the life sciences industry, successful companies should seek leaders who are going to put this data to use practically and efficiently. Here are some ways to adapt to this change in leadership:
Find the right tools.
Employ specialized analytical tools to make sense of all the incoming data. These tools can process internal and external data and can find predictive trends that the human mind may not see. In addition, these tools can help identify new customer bases and other hidden trends that could generate profit.
Hire or train a data expert.
Train executives on data analysis techniques or hire someone who is already an expert. Although computer tools can crunch numbers, humans are experts on human behavior – especially when it comes to customers using their products. Life sciences companies can now give patients real evidence to prove the value of their drugs and devices– giving them a competitive advantage.
Collect the right data.
This data has the potential to allow quicker scenario analysis, earlier prototypes, and smaller and cheaper clinical trials. But naturally, with this large influx of data, not all of it will be important. It’s essential to make sure you are collecting and focusing on the right information. Leaders will need to create strategies for their data gathering and answer– what do we want to know, why do we want to know it, and how will we get that data?
Be innovative with that data.
Statistical insights and knowledge should inspire innovation and new products. Leaders will need to put this data to use in all departments – marketing, finance, customer relationships, etc. This data can be used and applied in creative ways, so be sure to get the whole team involved. If you don’t, your competitors will.
Be safe and ensure security.
This data needs to be stored somewhere, and that fact causes concerns about security and privacy. Life sciences organizations often deal with sensitive, personal information and protecting this information should be dealt with delicately. Therefore, businesses need to find the right type of cloud storage for their data. Leaders should put as much effort into cyber security as they do into data gathering.
Looking for new and innovative leadership for your company? Contact Ashton Tweed to schedule a call today.
Share your insights! Contact jamesrudman@ashtontweed.com to contribute your life sciences article as a guest writer.
