The Clearly Podcast

Andy: Hey everyone, Happy New Year! Welcome to episode 10 of the Clearly Podcast. Today, we’re interviewing Hugo Soto, author of The Analyst Mindset. We recorded this on December 8, 2020. In this episode, Hugo talks about what inspired him to write the book, his definition of the analyst mindset, and its practical applications for organizations, particularly in the business intelligence market. Links to Hugo's book and LinkedIn profile are in the show notes. Hugo, how are you doing?

Hugo: I'm doing well, thanks. How are you?

Andy: I’m fine, thanks. It feels like a different era since we last met at the Power Platform World Tour in February in Houston. How have you been coping with the pandemic?

Hugo: It’s been an adjustment, working from home most of the time and rarely going out unless necessary. My fitness deteriorated initially, but I’ve started working out in the afternoons at the park.

Andy: It’ll be interesting to see what changes post-pandemic, especially with the acceleration of digital transformation.

Hugo: Absolutely. Many businesses will realize they can function better with current technology, and some employees may never return to office work. The pandemic has accelerated these changes.

Andy: Do you have a return date for the office?

Hugo: Not yet. My company is monitoring COVID-19 rates and will give a 30-day notice before expecting us back.

Andy: Your book, The Analyst Mindset, came out around the start of the pandemic. What led you to write it?

Hugo: I wanted to share my knowledge. I’ve been doing analytics since I was ten, working at my mother’s grocery store in Mexico. I realized I was doing data analytics without knowing it. I wanted to share these insights in an easy-to-digest format.

Andy: How do you define the analyst mindset?

Hugo: It involves three main pillars: curiosity, resourcefulness, and being data-driven. An analyst mindset means asking questions, seeking information, and making decisions based on data rather than gut feelings or past experiences.

Andy: How can someone adopt this mindset?

Hugo: For small business owners, start by recording data and gradually using better tools for analysis. For corporate decision-makers, understand the data you have and how it's generated. It’s about starting with the basics and evolving.

Andy: How can this transformation be sustained long-term?

Hugo: Through automation and standardization. Automate processes where possible and consistently record data points. This makes it easier to maintain and evolve practices.

Andy: How does this change organizational culture?

Hugo: It's challenging but achievable through education, training, and showcasing practical examples. Change often comes when people see better ways of doing things.

Andy: How has your book been received at your workplace?

Hugo: It has increased trust in me and led to more analytics and process improvement roles. I also do a lot of coaching to help colleagues use tools like Power BI effectively.

Andy: What advice do you have for Power BI consultants?

Hugo: Understand the human factor of data. Data always has a human aspect, and knowing why certain data points are tracked is crucial for making accurate conclusions.

Andy: Can you elaborate on the human aspect of data?

Hugo: Data is always influenced by human decisions about what to track and why. This context is essential for understanding and utilizing data effectively.

Andy: What’s your view on the current use of BI tools in organizations?

Hugo: They’re underutilized due to lack of training, fear of data, or rapidly changing conditions. More education and easier access to these tools could improve their use.

Andy: Should everyone be educated on managing and understanding data?

Hugo: Yes, a basic understanding is essential, especially for managers. It helps in communicating effectively and making informed decisions.

Andy: What can BI tool providers do to increase their relevance and usage?

Hugo: They should target small businesses and students, making their tools affordable and accessible. This will create a new generation familiar with these tools.

Andy: What surprised you most after releasing the book?

Hugo: How fast the world changed. The book was written to withstand change, but the pandemic and technological advancements have accelerated those changes.

Andy: What’s next for you?

Hugo: I’m working on several projects, including another book on how advanced technologies can be used by small businesses and students. I’m also exploring cryptocurrency and writing a fiction book.

Andy: Where can people contact you?

Hugo: Primarily on LinkedIn. Feel free to connect and message me there.

Andy: Thanks, Hugo. For listeners, you can find links to Hugo’s book and LinkedIn profile in the show notes. Stay safe and have a great week!