Reported Date: 28-01-2023
An interview with a data scientist whose expertise lies in Machine Learning, supervised and unsupervised learning. For those who don’t know, what is Machine Learning?
You know how a toddler picks up words and slowly understands their meaning through the actions of the older people around them, sometimes mimicking behaviours? Machine Learning, in its true essence, is just like that. We strive to make machines as human-like as possible by teaching them the art of learning from data. The more data you input, the more the machine learns, helping you reach your objectives.
How do you start the process of Machine Learning?
Our industry follows the CRISP-DM framework, which comprises six steps. To understand where you want to go, you need to know what a machine can do and what it’s capable of. The first step is understanding the business, then the data. After that, you evaluate and process the data, select a model or methodology, test and deploy the system, and finally evaluate the results. These six steps are cyclical and can only be done right when done in sync.
I understand you are a Machine Learning Engineer and Product Marketing Lead at The Cloud Bee. Tell us more about the projects you get involved in.
My day-to-day work involves researching algorithms and finding the perfect one to use in practical settings. I’ve managed to develop a unique algorithm where users answer a questionnaire, and it optimises their marketing campaigns at their fingertips. It’s tailored and provides advice on how to improve KPIs too. This is just one example of the kind of work I do. I also handle client needs, help manage clients, and lead the marketing efforts from the ground up. There’s a lot more involved since it’s a small company, but it’s based on a startup model.
Wow, you explained your technical aspects so well. You’re a great storyteller, Afnan, I’m impressed. So, what about the size of the Pakistani market in terms of Machine Learning?
The Pakistani market is certainly burgeoning in the realm of Machine Learning. With the increasing adoption of data-driven decision-making across various industries, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can harness the power of Machine Learning algorithms to drive business success. While the market may still be in its nascent stages compared to more developed regions, the potential for growth and innovation is vast. As more organisations recognise the value of leveraging data analytics and Machine Learning, we can expect to see significant expansion and opportunities emerge within the Pakistani market. Top organisations like Gaditek, Tesla, GSK, and even Bykea nowadays have made this an everyday practice, and this speaks to the vast potential the country has.
Before I let you go, I’m curious to know, what do you do to destress?
I live my life as if it were my last day. I have a tough work routine and usually work around 60-70 hours per week, but at the same time, I make sure I have enough time for myself, my family and friends, and activities like playing football, chess, and working out. You know, all sorts of things that make a normal person happy.
Thanks very much Afnan. You are a star in making and I loved your toddler analogy.
