The wealth of Data now available is unprecedented. What was once the domain of a single Data Scientist to part and parcel the information into actionable insights now requires a much more 360-degree review. Once more of a generalist who understood the technical requirements of the IT department and computer languages like R, and could translate them to business leaders, has now been drilled down into specializations. Rarely is the information generalized into collecting, collating, and analyzing, but now requires someone to develop predictive models for machine learning. Within Machine Learning, AI is the next step, and that requires its own set of responsibilities and accountabilities we didn’t used to think about regarding Data, computers, or machines. But in the last few years, the role of Data Scientist and what businesses need have leapt light-years into preparation for the future. So, what’s changed?The Four Roles within Data ScienceWhile many things have changed such as more access to education to learn Data Science, hackathons, and businesses who both upskill and reskill their talent, there are four ‘roles’ that come together to help define the next Data Scientist.Once termed a ‘unicorn’ employee, these specialists must not only be able to understand their own role, but also have a deep understanding of the engineer, Data Analyst, and Computer Programmer. That unicorn employee who could do everything and at the speed of machines is now par for the course. But for a quick breakdown, the role of the unicorn Data Scientist includes.Knowing what tools to use and when, but while the programmer creates applications, the Data Scientist creates the model. How many job postings have you seen that require this once generalist professional to specialize in Predictive Modelling, Machine Learning, or AI?Understanding the mechanics of the Data Designer or Data Architect but being able to create visualizations to help shape and guide leaders’ strategies which could determine how the information gets used.Collaborating with Data Engineers on building the system.Utilizing Data Strategy to help businesses visualize how the system can best be used.The traditional role of Data Scientist, once hailed as the ‘sexiest job of the 21st century’, has evolved from generalist to subject matter expert. And the specializations are only getting more focused.Fade Out to Data Scientist. Hello, Data DesignerData has infiltrated every department in a business. Is it any wonder then that the evolution of the Data subject matter expert would evolve to the visuals of design? We are training computer models to ‘see’ and identify the difference between people and objects. We are working toward AI consciousness. Not in the sense that these systems will quite be Robin William’s Bi-Centennial Man, but that humans work toward not passing on our own prejudices and biases.Data Designers and Data Storytellers have helped push the next phase of innovation as well. Using visual design in that of diagrams, graphics, charts, and dynamic presentation to capture information in a way we have become used to. Imagine crafting a presentation for your board or business executives with movie-like quality and production. Businesses are making investments from infrastructure to advanced analytics and everything in between. But it’s only the beginning. You know how when the movie ends and we say ‘fade to black’. This seems to be the way of the Data Scientist as we know it. Though its title may be fading, its function is not, and is being elevated into a variety of specialities and subject matter expertise on a grander scale. Those who know and have a deep understanding not only of their core role but of the grander design for tech and business are drivers behind the next generation of Data Scientists. If you’re interested in Data Science, Digital Analytics, AI, Data Engineering, Machine Learning, or Robotics just to name a few, Harnham may have a role for you. Check out our current Data Science jobs or contact one of our expert consultants to learn more. For our West Coast Team, contact us at (415) 614 – 4999 or send an email to sanfraninfo@harnham.com. For our Arizona Team, contact us at (602) 562 7011 or send an email to phoenixinfo@harnham.com. For our Mid-West and East Coast teams contact us at (212) 796-6070 or send an email to newyorkinfo@harnham.com.
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