Most data work seems fundamentally worthless (ludic.mataroa.blog)

Article summary

The article discusses the author's experience in the data industry, where they felt that most of their work was pointless and did not produce any value to society or the organization. The author describes the difficulties of working with poor data, lack of vision, and bureaucratic friction. They also mention the prevalence of

Main themes

• pointlessness of data work
• importance of experience and leadership
• role of data analysis in value creation
• poor management and bureaucracy
• alternative approaches to data analysis
• autonomy and freedom in data work

What commenters say

• Some commenters agree that many data jobs are pointless and do not produce meaningful value, while others argue that the author's experience is not representative of the entire industry.
• The importance of experience and senior leadership in understanding what creates value is emphasized by some, while others believe that poor management is the main issue.
• The role of data analysis in creating value is debated, with some arguing that it is essential for driving business decisions and others claiming that it is often used to justify pre-existing decisions.
• Some commenters suggest that the problem lies in the way organizations approach data analysis, with a focus on buzzwords and technology rather than actual value creation.
• Others argue that the issue is not with data analysis itself, but with the lack of autonomy and freedom to make decisions that actually drive value.
• A few commenters propose alternative approaches, such as focusing on quality and meaning, or using data analysis to drive actual change rather than just signaling modernity.