From data analysts to data product owners
Client
Helen
Fusion companies involved
Splended,
Coventures
The beef
Coaching
The ability to adapt to strategic shifts is crucial for success. Recently, Fusion companies Splended and Coventures partnered with Helen to support their data analysts in transitioning to Data Product Owner roles. This shift required not only a change in title but also a significant transformation in mindset, responsibilities, and skills.
, Coventures-logo-black@2x-1.png, 8562, https://www.fusion-ecosystem.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Coventures-logo-black@2x-1.png, https://www.fusion-ecosystem.com/?attachment_id=2721, , 36, , , coventures-logo-black2x-1, inherit, 287, 2024-06-20 08:40:08, 2024-06-20 08:40:08, 0, image/png, image, png, https://www.fusion-ecosystem.com/wp-includes/images/media/default.png, 482, 100, Array){kind=logo}
Approach
The challenge: Assuming new responsibilities after a strategic shift
Helen’s strategic reorganization required their team of data analysts to step beyond their traditional roles. They were now expected to not only analyze and interpret data but also to own and manage data products. This transition posed a challenge especially since the team had varying backgrounds and skills.
While their technical expertise was unquestionable, the competencies required for effective product ownership—strategic thinking, stakeholder management, prioritization, and long-term vision—were new territory. The team needed more than just technical coaching; they needed support to build a strong foundation in product ownership while maintaining their confidence in their core abilities.
The approach: Learning sprint and one-on-one coaching
Splended is tailoring learning solutions to meet the specific needs of each partner. For Helen, this meant bringing in a tailored approach to support the development of their data analysts. They partnered with Coventures and enlisted expert coach Tom Weckström to lead a focused Learning Sprint.
The Learning Sprint was a dynamic and intensive program, aimed at rapidly upskilling the team in the intricacies of product ownership. From defining product vision to managing backlogs and communicating with stakeholders, the sprint covered critical aspects needed to build competence in this new role.
Alongside this team coaching, Marjut Sadeharju, the CEO of Splended, also worked closely with each individual through personalized one-on-one coaching. As CEO of Splended, she knows that no two people face challenges the same way, and this tailored coaching was critical in helping each team member transition to their new roles with confidence. These coaching sessions allowed to address personal obstacles, develop individual action plans, and reinforce a growth mindset that would serve them in their new roles.
Solution
The Result: Clarity and Confidence in Product Ownership
Helen is a company that invests in their people. In this coaching cycle, they managed to clear out hesitations and qualms about the new role description. Helen’s data analysts not only gained a deeper understanding of their new responsibilities as Data Product Owners but also walked away equipped with the practical tools they needed to excel.
Here’s how one participant reflected on their experience:
“We were able to openly discuss the concerns related to the DPO role, both in the training sessions and in the one-on-one coaching. There was a lot of discussion, so the training didn’t just consist of going through slides. Good concepts were presented during the training, which could lead to great ideas for our own work. The facilitation of the discussion worked well. Problem areas were effectively brought to light, and we generated ideas on how and where to discuss these issues within the organization.”
Beyond just learning the technicalities of the role, they embraced the broader strategic mindset needed for product ownership. They became more proactive in decision-making, improved collaboration across departments, and created a stronger alignment with Helen’s business goals. The team’s newfound clarity and confidence were palpable.
Additionally, the initiative strengthened the overall team dynamic. Transparency and open communication became central to their operations, promoting better collaboration and helping them work more cohesively toward common objectives.
More magic
Splended X
Forge
Siili Solutions
Splended, a Fusion Ecosystem company believes that the future of tech learning lies in providing highly practical, role-specific training that empowers professionals to feel skilled and confident in their assignments and roles. Their recent collaboration with Siili Solutions is a perfect example of how tailored, hands-on learning can drive real impact.
Splended X
Nieve
Valmet
Splended, a Fusion company, is committed to delivering impactful, fast-paced learning experiences. Recently, they partnered with Nieve Consulting to conduct a specialized sprint on Generative AI and Large Language Models for one of their clients, Valmet. The coach for this sprint, Iván Moreno, is an AI specialist with experience in guiding tech teams through the latest innovations in AI. The Learning Sprint was conducted fully online.