Recent times have seen a significant surge in companies seeking to make data-driven decisions and enhance their data management capabilities. This high demand keeps tech-savvy professionals on their toes, constantly updating their skills. But here’s the twist: To be a truly exceptional data developer, it’s not just about technical prowess! In this blog, we’ll look into the qualities that will set you apart from the crowd, earn trust from clients and managers, and boost your self-confidence. So, let’s cut to the chase right away. Dive in! 

Grasp the Bigger Picture 

Are you ready to see beyond the lines of code? Exceptional data developers understand the objectives of their customers and projects. They ask the right questions, such as the expected data growth, essential metrics, report usage, and reporting speed. This perspective guides your thinking and opens doors to innovative ideas that your team might not have considered. Many businesses crave the perfect, unshakable setup, and your insights can make it happen. Plus, it’s your ticket to future leadership roles as a technical lead or architect. 

Think Like an End User 

Early in your career, it might be intimidating to think from an end user’s perspective, especially when they’re subject matter experts. But don’t fret! The internet is your ally, helping you learn about business quickly. Start by building a foundational understanding, then connect with your experienced colleagues to ask the right questions. This prepares you to anticipate questions and spot obvious discrepancies that others might miss. 

Consider this scenario. You are developing/testing a report that presents customer counts by region. By investing time in comprehending the intricacies of the business’s customer base, you’d be armed with valuable insights, such as the regions with the highest customer density and corresponding customer categories. 

In an ideal business environment, during the critical phase of User Acceptance Testing (UAT), the business user would examine the data for its integrity and assess the report’s aesthetics and user-friendliness. Your thorough understanding of the customer base allows you to promptly spot any unusual spikes in customer numbers within a specific region. This proactive approach ensures a higher level of quality during UAT, benefiting both your team and the eventual end-users when the report is rolled out. 

Equip yourself with Smart QA Techniques 

Welcome to the age of data efficiency! Equip yourself with savvy tools and languages like Excel, Notepad++, and Python. Excel’s arsenal of functions streamlines testing and ad hoc reporting. You can even automate repetitive tasks with Python, freeing up time for creative thinking. Embrace these tools, practice, and grasp their importance. 

Dive Deep into Data 

To excel as a data developer, you need to understand the data inside out. Start by exploring the granularity of your datasets, looking beyond primary key columns to find unique combinations of attributes. Build customized relationship diagrams to connect datasets effectively. Constantly update and refine these diagrams. Study individual data points and their behaviors. This initial groundwork will pay off, providing quick answers to business users and boosting your confidence. 

Embrace Lifelong Learning 

Never stop learning. An open mindset and a willingness to learn from your mistakes are your keys to success. Observe, note, and learn from your own missteps. The goal is not to repeat them and continually improve your skills. 

Master the Art of Communication 

Being a technical whiz is impressive, but communication is the glue that holds everything together. Exceptional data developers excel in talking, listening, writing, and asking questions. If you find yourself struggling in this department, actively seek feedback from colleagues and work on improving your communication skills. Clear communication is vital to avoid misunderstandings and keep projects on track. 

As we conclude this exploration into the dynamic world of data development, remember that the journey to excellence is ongoing and ever evolving. The fusion of technical expertise, business acumen, and a keen understanding of user needs sets the stage for a thriving career in data development. Embrace these principles and watch as your career soars to new heights in this data-centric era. You are not just a developer of data; you are a developer of possibilities. The future is bright, and it awaits your unique contribution. Forge ahead with confidence – your path to becoming an indispensable data architect begins now! 

About Author

8 Years with Systech, Ram Teja Yerrapothu, has experience in implementation of Data warehousing solutions covering Pipelining, Modeling and reporting with multiple business areas such as FMCG, Industrial Manufacturing and E-commerce & Retail Technology.