The Decision Intelligence Lab

The Decision Intelligence Lab

The Decision Intelligence Lab explores practical challenges of applying data science, analytics, and AI to drive real-world business outcomes. Hosted by Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University) and Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco) — both seasoned entrepreneurs, consultants, and researchers — this podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, & anyone seeking to leverage data for smarter decision making. Each episode features leaders sharing how smarter decisions are reshaping business and technology. Subscribe to join the conversation.

  1. 5 दिन पहले

    #16 Peyton Fry: Optimizing Healthcare Operations

    How Call Centers Shape Patient Access In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, hosts Vijay Mehrotra and Michael Watson welcome Peyton Fry, founder of Glass Raven, to discuss the intricacies of healthcare operations, particularly focusing on call centers and patient access. Peyton shares his journey from working in call centers to consulting healthcare systems on optimizing operations. The conversation delves into the importance of metrics, the challenges of forecasting and staffing, and how call centers can significantly impact patient outcomes. Peyton emphasizes the need for clarity in metrics and the importance of building relationships in the healthcare industry for those looking to enter the field. Chapters 0:00 - Preview & Introduction 1:03 - Meet Peyton Fry 5:17 - Understanding Metrics in Call Center Operations 7:40 - Challenges in Forecasting and Staffing 15:04 - Navigating Bureaucracy & Driving Change in Healthcare 21:50 - Connecting Call Centers to Patient Outcomes 26:01 - Advice for Entering the Healthcare Field 30:11 - The Role of Medical Records in Call Center Efficiency 32:45 - Case Study: 40-Minute Hold Time Eliminated 34:49 - Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with guest Peyton Fry: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/peyton-fry-mha-a4356862 Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    37 मिनट
  2. 29 अक्टू॰

    #15 Zohar Strinka: Solving the Meta Problem

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, Zohar Strinka discusses the concept of meta-problems in problem solving, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right problem to tackle. She shares real-world examples of how solving the wrong problem can lead to disastrous outcomes and highlights the iterative nature of problem-solving in analytics. Zohar also explores the distinction between problem selection and problem definition, the challenges of consulting, and the significance of focusing on outcomes in analytics. She provides valuable insights for young professionals in the field and discusses her involvement in the Analytics Plus Conference and the Edelman competition. Chapters 0:00 - Preview 0:31 - Meet Zohar Strinka 1:32 - Understanding Meta Problems in Problem Solving 2:31 - The Importance of Problem Selection vs. Problem Definition 3:45 - Navigating Client Expectations in Consulting 5:36 - The Dilemma of Problem Scope in Decision Making 10:41 - Transitioning to Independent Consulting 12:46 - Budgeting for Iterative Problem Solving 14:28 - Iterative Problem Solving and Agile Methodologies 16:57 - The Role of Analytics Professionals in Client Relationships 18:55 - Value of Analytics Plus Conference and Edelman Competition 20:50 - Advice for Young Analytics Professionals Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with the guest Zohar Strinka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zohar-strinka/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    27 मिनट
  3. 15 अक्टू॰

    #14 Warren Lieberman: Revenue Optimization in Self-Storage

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, hosts Vijay Mehrotra and Michael Watson engage with Warren Lieberman, President, Veritec Solutions, to explore the evolution of revenue optimization, particularly in the self-storage industry. Warren shares his journey from high school computer science to operations research at Yale, and his pivotal role in revenue management at American Airlines. He discusses the founding of Veritec Solutions, its transition from consulting to software development, and the unique challenges and strategies involved in pricing for self-storage. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding consumer psychology, the need for user-friendly systems, and the balance between product development and customer needs. Chapters 0:00 - Preview 0:42 - Meet Warren Lieberman 1:28 - Warren's Journey into Optimization and Analytics 6:16 - Revenue Management at American Airlines 8:40 - The Birth of Veritec Solutions 11:35 - Transitioning to Self-Storage Revenue Management 13:10 - Innovations in Self-Storage Revenue Management 20:16 - Pricing Strategies 22:40 - Value Pricing 29:40 - User Adoption and System Integration 34:54 - Balancing Product Development and Customer Needs 37:39 - Transition from Services to Software 42:00 - Closing Thoughts and Recommendations Key Takeaways: - Self-storage revenue management differs significantly from traditional industries due to low transaction volumes. - Value pricing in self-storage has transformed the industry. - Consumer psychology plays a crucial role in pricing strategies. - The transition from services to software requires careful consideration of customer needs. Veritech's approach is to customize software to fit the client's business processes. - Importance of user adoption and understanding system recommendations, continuous innovation, and enhancement of their software. Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with guest Warren Lieberman: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-lieberman-bb783/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    44 मिनट
  4. 1 अक्टू॰

    #13 Filippo Focacci: Constraint Programming & Decision Optimization

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Laboratory podcast, Dr. Filippo Focacci, co-founder and CEO of DecisionBrain, shares insights into the world of optimization, the evolution of their DB Gene platform, and the impact of generative AI on decision-making processes. The conversation covers Filippo's journey into optimization, the strengths of Decision Brain's team, and the technological approaches they employ, including constraint programming and mixed integer programming. Real-time applications and case studies illustrate the practical implications of their work, while discussions on team dynamics and the future of AI highlight the evolving landscape of decision intelligence. Chapters 0:00 - Preview 0:44 - Meet Filippo Focacci 4:30 - Learn about Decision Brain 6:30 - The Strengths of Decision Brain 9:13 - Technological Approaches in Optimization 11:38 - The Evolution of Gene DB 16:45 - Real-Time Applications of Decision Brain 21:12 - Team Roles & Responsibilities in Optimization Projects 23:00 - Evolving the Gene Platform 27:30 - Implementing Optimization in Practice 30:30 - The Impact of Generative AI on Business 32:52 - Filippo's Recommendations Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with guest Filippo Focacci: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/filippo-focacci-35a5091/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ Recommendations: Follow Yves Caseau: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ycaseau/ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    37 मिनट
  5. 17 सित॰

    #12 Jon Petersen: Solving Urban Mobility Problems with Data

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, hosts Vijay Mehrotra and Michael Watson interview Jon Petersen, Vice President of Data at Archer, an aerospace company specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft. The conversation explores Archer's mission to revolutionize urban mobility, the critical role of data science in aircraft design and operations, and the collaborative efforts between data science and engineering teams. Petersen shares insights on the challenges of data-driven decision-making, the importance of building a diverse and effective team, and strategies for securing support for data science initiatives. Chapters 0:00 – Preview 0:33 – Meet Jon Petersen 1:37 – Revolutionizing Urban Mobility 2:38 – Managing Aircraft Noise 4:23 – The Role of Data Science at Archer 9:38 – Collaborating with Engineering Teams 13:50 – Trip Density Distribution & Destination Origins 17:53 – Challenges in Data-Driven Decision-Making 19:48 – Team Building & Collaboration 28:53 – Scaling the Manufacturing Facility 30:33 – Funding & Justifying Data Science Initiatives Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with the guest Jon Petersen: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-petersen-ba623950/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ Recommendations from Guest: - Misbehaving: The Making of Behavioral Economics by Richard H. Thaler - Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    36 मिनट
  6. 4 सित॰

    #11 Carolyn Mooney: DecisionOps, Testing, and Iterative Development

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, hosts Vijay Mehrotra and Michael Watson discuss the concept of DecisionOps with Carolyn Mooney, Co-Founder & CEO of Nextmv. They discuss the evolution of decision-making systems, the importance of simulation and testing, and how to build trust within organizations. Carolyn shares insights on hierarchical optimization, the responsibilities of different roles in decision systems, and the latest trends in decision-making technologies, including the impact of generative AI. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication and collaboration between technical teams and operational users to enhance decision-making processes. Chapters 0:00 - Preview 0:38 - Meet Carolyn Mooney 1:38 - What is DecisionOps? 3:44 - The Journey of Nextmv 6:20 - Applications of DecisionOps in Various Industries 8:30 - Simulation and Testing in DecisionOps 12:37 - Building Trust Through Testing and User Interaction 14:40 - Hierarchical Optimization and Decision Making 18:21 - Ownership and Responsibilities in DecisionOps 22:11 - Working on the Product With Clients 31:28 - Trends in Decision-Making Technologies 33:54 - Final Thoughts and Resources Takeaways * Decision Ops is essential for getting decisions live in organizations. * Simulation helps in understanding the impact of decisions. * Testing capabilities should be integrated with CI/CD platforms. * Hierarchical optimization allows for balancing cost and service levels. * Ownership of decision-making processes should involve operational teams. * Prototyping and user feedback are key to successful decision systems. Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with guest Carolyn Mooney: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyn-m-mooney/ Nextmv: https://www.nextmv.io/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    35 मिनट
  7. 21 अग॰

    #10 Kartik Gada: Technology, Change, and Management

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Lab podcast, hosts Vijay Mehrotra and Michael Watson engage with Karthik Gada, a CFO and author, to explore the accelerating rate of change in technology and its implications for businesses, economies, and individuals. Gada discusses how technological advancements are interconnected and how they impact various sectors, including healthcare and education. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to rapid changes, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, and leveraging individual strengths to navigate the complexities of the modern world. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by institutional rigidity and the need for effective leadership in an era of constant disruption. Chapters 0:00 - Preview 0:40 - Meet Kartik Gada 1:40 - Understanding Technological Disruption & Accelerating Pace of Change 4:05 - The Impact of Cost Reduction on Technology 7:40 - Bottlenecks in Healthcare and Education 12:30 - How Individuals Respond to Change 15:48 - Embracing Change and Entrepreneurial Mindset 20:50 - Education and Career Pathways in a Changing World 24:15 - Managing Economic Complexity with AI 28:20 - Leadership in an Era of Rapid Change 31:50 - Closing Thoughts Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Connect with guest Kartik Gada: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kartikgada/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠/ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    34 मिनट
  8. 6 अग॰

    #9 Borja Menéndez: Making Planners into Super Heroes

    In this episode of the Decision Intelligence Laboratory podcast, Borja Menéndez, Lead Operations Research Engineer at Trucksters who also earned his PhD in OR, joins us to discuss his journey into the field of operations research, the impact of his work at Trucksters, and the importance of integrating data science with traditional optimization methods. He shares insights on the relay optimization problem, the challenges of implementing algorithms in logistics, and the significance of user-centric design in developing effective solutions. Borja also reflects on the transition of his blog, Feasible, to a paid model and the future of operations research in the context of Gen.AI. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Operations Research and Borja Menendez 01:14 The Journey into Operations Research 04:39 Real-World Applications of Operations Research 07:03 Understanding Trucksters and Relay Optimization 12:48 Challenges in Relay Optimization 16:21 Non-Technical Aspects of Implementing OR 20:15 Testing and Quality Assurance in Optimization Models 25:22 User-Centric Design in Optimization Solutions 27:47 Transitioning to a Paid Model for Feasible 29:32 Integrating Data Science with Operations Research 35:52 The Future of Operations Research and Gen.AI Follow the show Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-decision-intelligence-lab/id1811085064⁠ Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0lFoAVKqJHTYSZNpeN61ou?si=0ae973aab0174b3b⁠ Check out Borja Menéndez's Newsletter: https://www.feasible.club/ Connect with guest Borja Menéndez: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/borjamenendezmoreno/ Connect with hosts Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijay-mehrotra-ba9498/⁠ Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-watson-07600a1⁠ About the podcast The Decision Intelligence Lab podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, and anyone seeking to leverage data & AI for smarter decision-making & successful business outcomes. For business inquiries, email at ⁠decisionintelligencepodcast@gmail.com⁠

    38 मिनट

परिचय

The Decision Intelligence Lab explores practical challenges of applying data science, analytics, and AI to drive real-world business outcomes. Hosted by Prof. Michael Watson (Northwestern University) and Prof. Vijay Mehrotra (University of San Francisco) — both seasoned entrepreneurs, consultants, and researchers — this podcast delivers real-world insights for data professionals, business leaders, & anyone seeking to leverage data for smarter decision making. Each episode features leaders sharing how smarter decisions are reshaping business and technology. Subscribe to join the conversation.

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