How often do you struggle to get your project ideas approved?
Even with how persuasive your argument is, your proposals often get sidelined.
The missing piece? A bridge between your vision and the organization's language: Data & Metrics.
Why Data Drives Decisions
It's simple: Data is objective; feelings are subjective.
While passion drives us, data guides us—providing a clear, unbiased pathway to decision-making. Here are some ways different data sets connect with the business:
- User Engagement Stats: Demonstrates how users interact with your product and can spotlight potential areas for improvement or success stories worth doubling down on.
- Performance Improvements: Data showcasing enhanced efficiency or reduced load times can speak volumes about the technical merits of your proposal.
- Cost Savings and Revenue Potential: Numbers that predict financial outcomes can sway stakeholders by aligning with the universal goal of profitability.
Use Benchmarking To Add Context
Benchmarking adds context and credibility to your proposals. Using industry standards as a yardstick, you provide a clear, objective comparison to sell your idea.
For example, my department tracks DORA metrics and focuses on ensuring that any change we make positively impacts these metrics.
Here is how you can incorporate benchmarking into your next proposal:
- Identify Relevant Benchmarks: Choose metrics that matter to both your team and the industry, like Change Failure Rate.
- Collect and Compare Data: Gather and compare your data against industry standards or benchmarks.
- Communicate Value: Use your benchmarking findings to highlight your team's strengths or identify opportunities for improvement in your proposals.
How to Incorporate Data Into Your Proposals
Understanding the significance of data is one thing; weaving it into your proposals is another. Here's how you can tell a compelling story with data:
- Storytelling with Data: Remember, data alone doesn't persuade; the narrative you craft around it does. Construct a story that connects your data points to the bigger picture, making the impact of your proposal undeniable.
- Tailoring Your Message: Know your audience. What resonates with a technical manager might differ from what catches a CFO's eye. Customize your presentation to address their unique interests and concerns.
- Visual Aids: A well-placed chart or graph can communicate your point more effectively than paragraphs of text. Use visual aids to make your data accessible and memorable.
- Highlighting Impact: Connect your proposal and the organization's objectives. Show how your idea isn't only good for the tech team, but also impactful to the company's goals.
Data and metrics aren't just about getting your proposals approved; it's about elevating your ideas in a language the organization understands.
As software engineers, embracing data-driven communication is not optional—it's essential. So, in your next project presentation or proposal, remember the power of data.
How are you using data to get your ideas heard? Please reply to this email; I read and respond to each one personally.
