Small Business Struggle with Data

In my time working with small businesses, I’ve seen how the “solutions” out there aren’t even close to data-friendly. While the big companies can slap on an enterprise tool and “connect,” small businesses are left figuring it out solo… So, I built a playbook for them—showing them how to use data their way.

I want to discuss two of my favorite topics: karaoke and education. You’re probably wondering—what the heck does karaoke have to do with education? Just like an 80s ballad, education needs to be emotional and personal.

People don’t start businesses to fail. They start them to thrive personally and have more flexibility in their lives away from a corporate monolith. The thing is, data can be their path to thriving and reaching those goals that were pivotal to starting their business in the first place.

There’s no grand revelation or voice from above directing us. Many of us are raised to believe in rescuers and heroes, but in reality, the only person coming to our rescue is ourselves. And while this might sound disheartening at first, I find it empowering. We’re in control of our lives, so why should we let others’ judgments weigh us down?

These assumptions create high barriers to data education, preventing those who need it most from accessing it. If everyone followed the same path, innovation would stagnate. Diversity is crucial—not just in terms of bringing data education to underrepresented populations but also in integrating data insights across various teams and functions within organizations.