Liselotte Van Unen is a data science consultant at Avanade, where she has been a pivotal part of the Data Analytics team in the Netherlands for the past 3 years. With a rich palette of skills ranging from data visualization to machine learning and beyond, her career is a testament to the power of dedication fused with expertise.
This article will explore how Liselotte's unique blend of mathematical insight, technological fluency, and a broad spectrum of interests have shaped her approach to solving complex business challenges and setting new standards in client-centric data solutions for Avanade.

The Power of Data in Client Solutions

In the realm of data science, the impact of innovative solutions on business operations is crucial. Liselotte's contributions have helped businesses leverage data to drive decisions and strategies. Her expertise in developing advanced data pipelines and models has enabled companies to streamline processes and enhance efficiency within their data strategy. “For some clients, it’s about starting from scratch and installing the processes and tools necessary for a data-driven approach to their business, with operational optimization in mind”, says Liselotte. Other clients, on the other hand, already have a mature approach to their data but need Avanade to reach the next level, in terms of data quality, segmentation, growth, and product development.

Moreover, Liselotte's work in customer segmentation models has revolutionized client engagement strategies. “By enabling businesses to tailor their services to the specific needs and preferences of distinct customer segments, we empower companies to deliver more personalized and effective customer experiences. This strategic segmentation not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and drives business expansion”, she explains.

Through these examples ranging from the energy sector to the financial industry, Liselotte's role is mainly to harness the power of data to solve complex business challenges. Her ability to translate technical solutions into business outcomes underscores the critical importance of data science in today's competitive landscape.

Optimized tools, strategic insights

With access to the latest and most innovative tools, Liselotte is well-equipped to maintain a leading edge in data analytics. Liselotte emphasizes the significance of Azure Databricks at Avanade, stating, "Databricks is at the heart of what I do daily”. She elaborates on its pivotal role in crafting scalable and efficient data pipelines, alongside its prowess in analytics and machine learning that helps her and her team extract deep insights.

Liselotte also makes a point to explore many other innovative tools, considering their potential to enhance their data strategies. "We're currently delving into Microsoft Fabric's capabilities," Liselotte shares, indicating a collaborative effort to assess its value in their work.

Highlighting Avanade's innovative edge, Liselotte notes, "The company had the foresight to tap into OpenAI technologies and new Microsoft products such as Copilot or Fabric, well before they hit the mainstream." This early adoption underscores Avanade's proactive approach to embracing cutting-edge tools, ensuring they remain at the forefront of data analytics advancements.

Shared knowledge: Liselotte's learning approach at Avanade

In the dynamic realm of data science, staying abreast of the latest innovations and best practices is crucial. Liselotte emphasizes the vibrant learning ecosystem she's part of, thanks to Avanade's close collaboration with Microsoft and Databricks. "It's about much more than just certifications," she says, highlighting the invaluable access to an international community passionate about data. This community fosters a rich environment for knowledge exchange, from monthly gatherings with the broader practice community to weekly discussions with Databricks specialists and frequent Microsoft events.

Liselotte points out the myriad of learning opportunities available, "There's a constant flow of knowledge through our monthly, regional, and even weekly interactions that enrich our expertise." The ease of reaching out to Databricks champions or diving into deep discussions in Teams channels exemplifies the collaborative spirit that drives personal and professional growth.

This continuous learning culture extends beyond formal credentials, embracing a more informal, yet profoundly impactful, approach to skill enhancement. "It's about tapping into a pool of collective wisdom, where the latest Microsoft tools or innovative practices are openly shared, including insights from MVP sessions or casual conversations with peers," Liselotte shares. This approach not only broadens her knowledge base but also fuels her passion for data science, ensuring she and her team can deliver cutting-edge solutions to clients.

Anticipating trends: generative AI and beyond

As the world stands on the cusp of a new era in data analytics, the horizon is buzzing with the potential of generative AI and its implications for the future. Liselotte Van Unen, with her finger firmly on the pulse of innovation, is navigating these transformative waves with a blend of anticipation and strategic foresight. Generative AI, with its ability to create new data points and insights from existing datasets, promises to redefine the landscape of data analytics, offering unprecedented opportunities for creativity and efficiency.

Liselotte's approach is not just about harnessing the power of these technologies but understanding their role within the broader ecosystem of data science. “There is a symbiotic relationship between generative AI and traditional data analytics, where each complements the other, enhancing the overall value delivered to businesses”, she adds.

This forward-thinking mindset is crucial in an industry where the pace of change is relentless. For Liselotte and her peers, the future is not just about adapting to new technologies like generative AI but about anticipating how these innovations can be woven into data analytics to solve complex business challenges in novel ways. “As we look ahead, the interplay between generative AI and Databricks is set to become a cornerstone of advanced data analytics, and I’m excited to be part of this exciting journey, " she says enthusiastically. That being said, Liselotte insists that knowing how to use data modelization and how to interpret it is crucial, a pivotal skill that simply can’t be replaced by AI, yet.

A mosaic of minds: fostering inclusion in the world of data science

Liselotte's experience within Avanade shows the evolution of the tech industry, where gender and cultural diversity are not just encouraged but are seen as an asset. “The blend of different backgrounds and experiences fosters an environment where innovative solutions emerge from the confluence of varied perspectives”, she explains, stating that Avanade’s inclusive culture elevates the quality of work and cultivates a sense of belonging and equity among team members.
“Avanade creates a space where everyone can contribute, innovate, and lead. It's a testament to how the tech industry, and data science in particular, can lead by example in building a more inclusive future”, she adds.

Liselotte Van Unen's journey in the world of data science serves as an inspiring blueprint for those aspiring to make their mark in this ever-evolving field. Her path from a passionate business analytics student to a data science leader at Avanade underscores a fundamental truth in the realm of data science: the landscape is vast, and there is still room for new experts to join the adventure.
Her advice to newcomers is clear and pragmatic: concentrate on the foundational elements of data science. “Know how to structure your work, validate your models, and interpret the data. These skills form the bedrock upon which all successful data science careers are built. It's not about memorizing every model or algorithm but about grasping the underlying processes that enable you to tackle a wide array of problems effectively”, she concludes.
Aspiring data scientists should take to heart the lessons from Liselotte's career: focus on the fundamentals, embrace continuous learning, and remain adaptable. By doing so, you too can navigate the complexities of data science and contribute to the exciting developments shaping the future.