Hard numbers, soft skills

Big Data

Modern technology enables storage and processing of massive datasets. Companies employ data specialists who analyze this "data-spaghetti" and translate it into meaningful information, often using advanced Excel skills to create clear charts and presentations.

Avoidance Behavior

While reports appear impressive and provide performance insights, they often become subjects of debate. People question whether numbers are reliable and if they're open to different interpretations. This frequently leads to discussions focusing on standardization and algorithm improvements rather than addressing substantive issues. This represents much easier avoidance behavior than having difficult conversations.

Maslow

Instead of pursuing excessive standardization, the recommendation is to establish shared values, work from vision and trust, and emphasize facilitation, coordination, coaching, and inspiration. Leverage employees' desire for personal development and self-regulation while setting clear boundaries.

The Decimal Places

While hard numbers provide direction and measure results, does extreme precision — three decimal places — justify the processing effort required? Leadership demands dialogue based on trust rather than obsessive accuracy, allowing numerical data to guide strategy while fully utilizing team talents.

You need soft skills to deal with hard numbers!