A Data Masterclass: Smarter Data: Driving Efficiency and Profitability

Data is the backbone of business transformation. That was the central theme of this data masterclass that brought together experts, real-world case studies, and practical advice for organisations ready to turn data into action.

Hosted by Emma Portlock, Head of New Business at BCN, the webinar calls for businesses to embrace smarter data strategies and unlock their full potential.

Why Smarter Data Matters Now More Than Ever

Emma kicked off the session by framing the conversation around a simple but powerful truth: data is at the heart of every modern business. Whether you’re trying to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer experience, or drive innovation, data is the common thread. But with rising costs, talent shortages, and fragmented systems, many organisations struggle to turn data into actionable insight.

The webinar promised tangible next steps moving from insight to action, from theory to transformation.

Meet the Experts Behind the Insights

The panel featured a diverse mix of technical and strategic voices:

• Divya Gumbira, Data Engineer at BCN, who brings hands-on experience in data ingestion, transformation, and healthcare analytics.
• Mark Rotheram, Chief Technology Officer, who oversees BCN’s technology strategy and customer solutions.
• Fraser Dear, Head of AI and Data Innovation, who works closely with clients to identify use cases and deliver ROI through data and AI.

Together, they offered a 360-degree view of the data landscape from backend engineering to business outcomes.

Tackling Today’s Business Challenges

The discussion began with a look at the macroeconomic pressures facing businesses. Mark highlighted a shift from “innovation for innovation’s sake” to innovation as a necessity. With teams stretched thin and hiring freezes in place, companies are turning to AI and automation to do more with less.

Fraser added that the talent gap is especially acute in AI. “There’s no degree in generative AI,” he noted. Instead, businesses must look for people with strong business logic and data literacy—and consider partnering with experts to bridge the gap.

Divya shared her own journey into data via healthcare, underscoring the importance of hands-on experience and domain knowledge. Her passion for patient data and its real-world impact was a reminder that behind every data point is a human story.

The Problem with Disconnected Systems

One recurring theme was the challenge of disconnected systems. Many businesses operate in silos, with data scattered across Excel sheets, emails, and legacy platforms. This fragmentation makes it difficult to get a single source of truth.

Fraser explained how technologies like Microsoft Fabric and data lakes can help unify data but stressed that the goal isn’t integration, it’s insight. “Don’t just join data sets for the sake of it,” he said. “Ask what value you’re trying to unlock.”

Mark echoed this, noting that even small steps like turning Excel into a trusted data source can be transformative. But he also warned of the pitfalls of DIY dashboards. Without proper governance, Power BI projects can quickly lose trust and adoption.

Case Study: PEAK4 and the Power of Converged Architecture

The highlight of the webinar was a look into BCN’s work with PEAK4, a company that brings sports science into the workplace. Using wearable devices, PEAK4 collects physiological data like sleep efficiency and heart rate variability to help employees perform at their best.

BCN helped turn this raw data into actionable insights using a “converged architecture” approach. Rather than relying on a single platform, they combined low-code tools like Microsoft Forms with advanced technologies like Azure and Fabric. The result? A secure, agile, and scalable solution that delivered real business value.

The demo showcased an app command centre and a Power BI dashboard that allowed PEAK4 to track interventions and measure their impact. It was a masterclass in how to blend simplicity and sophistication.

Understanding Structured vs. Unstructured Data

In a glass boarding session, Divya broke down the difference between structured and unstructured data. While structured data (like CRM records) is easy to search and analyse, unstructured data (like emails and PDFs) makes up 80% of business data and is much harder to manage.

She explained how AI can help summarise, classify, and secure unstructured data using tools like Microsoft Purview. The key takeaway? Security is about understanding where your data lives and how it flows.

ROI and the Cost of Doing Nothing

Fraser returned to the theme of ROI, sharing examples of clients who saw returns of 471% within 1 year. He urged businesses to start small, test ideas, and iterate. “Even turning on a license like Microsoft 365 Copilot can save 26 minutes per employee per day,” he said.

Emma went on to share information on the Microsoft funding programmes to help businesses get started. These programmes can offset costs and accelerate adoption. Whether it’s identifying a process ripe for automation or exploring a data migration path, Microsoft’s funding can help de-risk the journey and accelerate time to value.

She encouraged attendees to check whether they’re eligible for funding and to work with partners like BCN who can guide them through the process. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” she said, “but we’re here to help you find out.”

Overcoming Barriers: Fear, Complexity, and Inertia

So, why aren’t more businesses embracing smarter data? The panel identified several barriers:

• Fear of change
• Lack of data integrity
• Concerns about security
• Perceived complexity of AI

Mark advised treating security as a standard part of every project—“secure by design.” Fraser emphasised agility: “If your business is changing, your systems should too.” And Divya stressed the importance of data discovery and quality as the foundation for any successful project.

The Power of Starting Small

One of the most refreshing messages from the webinar was that digital transformation doesn’t have to be big or expensive. Mark reminded attendees that starting small is often the best approach. “You don’t need a huge budget,” he said. “Even a modest proof of concept can deliver massive value.”

Fraser echoed this sentiment, sharing a recent example where a client saw ROI within just two weeks. “That’s the speed at which these transformations can return business value,” he said.

Final Thoughts: Your Call to Action

As the session wrapped up, each panelist offered a call to action:

• Fraser: “Do something. Start small. Try one thing.”
• Divya: “Understand your data. Make a wish list. Start ticking it off.”
• Mark: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Use what you have and move forward.”

Emma closed by encouraging attendees to explore Microsoft funding options and take advantage of BCN’s Kickstarter programmes. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” she said. “But we’re here to help you find out.” Contact us to learn more about making your data work for you.