Show Me the Data

SEASON 3 EPISODE 5 Data Skills That Stay: NICD's Approach to Capability Building Hosted by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠⁠Dr ⁠Hollie Johnson⁠ and ⁠⁠Dr Tom Verhelst⁠

Managing vast amounts of data can be quite overwhelming, regardless of whether your organisation operates within the public sector, functions as a small enterprise, or is a large corporation.

Unlike typical consulting firms, The National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) equips teams with the necessary skills to independently manage future data projects, enabling them to maintain the expertise internally and ensuring they have the insights required to keep the capability in-house. In this episode, we're joined by a former Senior Data Scientist, Dr Hollie Johnson from NICD in Newcastle, UK, who shares their experience working within NICD. Hollie shares their experience leading a unique data project with a start up who specialises in technology systems for grid decarbonisation using second life vehicle batteries. Our guest also discusses the transformative journey from manual spreadsheets to automated data collection and analysis, demonstrating how NICD is democratising data. They delve into what it means to be data-driven, the value of collaborating with experts in understanding moral and ethical grey areas, and the vision for a similar initiative in Australia focused on upskilling and bridging the gap between data beginners and experts. The conversation also covers clean, sustainable data science practices, advice for aspiring data professionals, staying current with trends, potential data gaps, and the dream of having access to transport data. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of data science and its impact.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes

• National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD)

• NICD Case Study | Connected Energy

• LSTM - Long Short-Term Memory Network read more here: Long Short-Term Memory Network - an overview | ScienceDirect

• Hollie Johnson | LinkedIn

SEASON 3 EPISODE 4 The Data Architect: Empowering the Public Sector with AWS Solutions Hosted by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠⁠⁠⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Saeed Barghi and ⁠Dr Tom Verhelst

Being a data-driven organisation means more than just delivering the right data to the right people at the right time; it involves ensuring that decision-makers have access to applications powered by machine learning models, trained with precise datasets, acting as digital assistants to guide their choices.

In this episode, we delve into how Amazon Web Services (AWS) help customers design and build fit-for-purpose data platforms to assist customers on their data journeys, featuring our guest, Saeed Barghi, a Senior Solutions Architect at AWS with a focus on the public sector within the Asia-Pacific and Japan regions. We discuss the importance of managing sensitive data through data masking, encryption methods and security, the cost benefits of transitioning to the cloud, and how AWS's innovative tools are revolutionising public sector operations. This includes using imagery analysis in managing US wildfires and enhancing customer service with artificial intelligence and machine learning powered chatbots. With over 15 years of experience in the design and construction of data platforms, Saaed's dedication to making a difference is evident as he shares how AWS is facilitating significant digital transformations.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes

• Amazon S3 - AWS
• Amazon Redshift - AWS
• How machine learning and drones are helping prevent wildfires (aboutamazon.com)
• Amazon Relational Database Service (RDS) - AWS
• AWS Well-Architected - AWS
• Amazon Bedrock - AWS
• Saeed Barghi | LinkedIn

SEASON 3 EPISODE 3 The Data Behind Heartbreak: Unveiling Romance Scams Hosted by ⁠⁠⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠⁠⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr Jacqueline Drew and Dr Tom Verhelst

In 2021, Australians lost a staggering $210 million to romance scams, contributing to a total of $3.1 billion lost to various scams as reported by the ACCC.

In this episode, we delve into the complex world of romance scams, magnified by the alarming rise of deepfake technology. Featuring expert insights from Dr. Jacqueline Drew, we explore the sophisticated tactics scammers use, from love bombing to deepfake videos, and the significant financial and emotional toll on victims. Learn about the challenges in data coordination, victimology, and the steps being taken globally to combat these scams. 

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

• Jacqueline Drew Profile | Griffith University
• Academy of Excellence in Financial Crime Investigation and Compliance (griffith.edu.au)
• ACCC calls for united front as scammers steal over $3bn from Australians | ACCC
• Link to further resources including places to report fraud and receive help: https://www.counterfraud.gov.au/find-where-report-fraud

SEASON 3 EPISODE 2 AI Fluency and Ethics: Setting the Foundation for a Data-Enabled Government Hosted by ⁠⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠⁠Nathan Bines

What are the current levels of data and AI fluency across the public sector and what does good AI alignment look like?

In this episode, we are honoured to host the head of Queensland Government's Data and Artificial Intelligence Unit, Nathan Bines. Our guest oversees the state's budget allocation for data and AI initiatives, leading policy and legislative reviews focused on the safe and ethical application of AI technologies. Nathan's team plays a key role in shaping the Queensland's digital economy strategy and have been instrumental in developing generative AI tools for government employees. Join us as we discuss the integration of data and AI in government operations as well as the importance of data literacy for all employees. This insightful conversation also covers overcoming AI skepticism through experience and exposure, the ethical challenges of AI alignment, and the impact of developers' biases on AI tools. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how data and AI are reshaping government operations and the importance of informed, ethical leadership in navigating this digital evolution.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

• Queensland's Digital Economy Strategy | Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works (chde.qld.gov.au)
• Safe and responsible AI in Australia discussion paper | Department of Industry (consult.industry.gov.au)
• Use of generative AI in Queensland Government | For government | Queensland Government
• The Alignment Problem | Brian Christian
• President Biden Issues Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence | The White House
• RIDL's work with mobility data - DSpark:
• DSpark QFES Prepare and Respond – RIDL
• Dspark Ecotourism – RIDL

SEASON 3 EPISODE 1 The Data Catalyst Network: Building Capability in the Not-for-profit Sector Hosted by ⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠Dr Kristen Moeller-Saxone, Barry Sandison and ⁠Dr. Tom Verhelst

Adoption of AI has doubled since 2022, with almost one in four not-for-profit organisations making use of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. Findings from Infoxchange's latest 2023 Digital Technology in the Not-for-Profit Sector Report reveal the usage of generative AI tools has doubled since their last report in 2022, with almost one in four organisations making use of tools such as ChatGPT.  The report also sheds light on the pressing need for enhanced data capabilities within the sector to disrupt the persistent cycles of disadvantage. With over 1,000 organisations participating in the survey this year, we explore challenges and transformative potential in the sector including the increased use of generative AI tools. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion of how data-driven strategies can reshape the sector and how initiatives such as the Data Catalyst Network, a collaboration between Infoxchange and the Paul Ramsay Foundation, unite stakeholders and leverage data for positive change in the non-profit landscape. 

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

• Digital Technology in the Not-for-Profit Sector Report | Infoxchange
• Data Catalyst Network | Infxchange
• Linked Employer-Employee Database (LEED) | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)
• Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)
• Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)

There's Always a Solution: The importance of data storytelling and contextualisation (Part 1) Hosted by ⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠ Conversation with ⁠⁠Dan O'Halloran⁠⁠ and ⁠Dr. Tom Verhelst⁠

When it comes to understanding patient and community needs and improving interventions, experiences, and outcomes, a conversation with and about data and contextualisation are both crucial elements in understanding and making sense of information. Data provide the raw material for analysis and decision-making, but it is only when contextualised that data or insights become truly actionable and valuable. Contextualisation refers to the process of understanding the circumstances and conditions in which the data were collected, and the broader social, economic, and cultural factors that may have influenced interpretation. Put simply, without contextualisation, data can be misleading and even harmful. Join our conversation with health economist and adjunct professor Dan O’Halloran as we discuss data storytelling and explore whether well-meaning policies are incentivising true value or value-for-money in Australian hospitals, day-cares, and aged-care homes and whether as decision makers we have the right to ask people to do things that they simply just don’t have the financial capacity or freedom to do.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

- Learn more about the COVID Round Table discussion here: RIDL | Queensland COVID Round Table

Hosted by ⁠Rhetta Chappell⁠

Conversation with ⁠Kevin Harper and ⁠⁠Dr. Tom Verhelst⁠

Exploring the utility of mobility data to drive positive and sustainable change, mobility data are extremely valuable when working to solve complex social problems.

By collecting and analysing data on how, when and where people move around a neighbourhood, city or region, governments and organisations can gain valuable insights into human behaviour, transportation use, incident rates and can be used to inform interventions promoting greater equity, sustainability, and safety in our communities. Mobility data can also play a vital role in disaster response efforts, helping to ensure that resources are deployed efficiently and effectively to those in need. DSpark are leaders in processing large geo-spatial temporal mobility data to deliver intelligence on people and places using the highest data privacy standards. Understanding how people move, where they go and what they do enables their partner organisations to map their strategy around where people live, work and play. Join us as we discuss the importance of fostering a data friendly and curious work culture, and why it’s hard for some organisations to take that calculated risk and trust how in what the data say, even though if they do so, they can reap the benefits of being an insight rich organisation.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

- You can find our website here: ⁠⁠www.ridl.com.au⁠⁠

- You can view our presentation and report here:

- RIDL | DSpark QFES Prepare and Respond

- RIDL | DSpark Ecotourism

Hosted by Rhetta Chappell

Conversation with Professor Susan Harris Rimmer and Dr. Tom Verhelst

Climate change is a shared challenge that requires a combination of global and local solutions.

Data plays a critical role in understanding and addressing the challenges of climate change. This is because data and insights allow us to track things like greenhouse gas emissions, monitor the impacts of climate change on our communities and environments, and develop effective policies and strategies to mitigate and adapt to its effects. Additionally, the importance of data extends beyond the realm of science and policy, as climate change intersects with human rights in a multitude of ways. We can already see examples of how climate change is exacerbating existing inequities and vulnerabilities, particularly among marginalised communities who often have limited access to resources and information – think places like Vanuatu, Manila, Haiti, and Yemen. Furthermore, efforts to address climate change can have serious impacts on human rights, such as the right to food and water.  In Australia, we know too well the multi-generational effects natural disasters and extreme weather can have on communities, but what should we make of the international conversations being had deciding who is responsible for the loss and damages caused by climate change? Is it practical to establish systems wherein data are used in ways that uphold human rights and what’s being done to fill the data gap on heat related deaths in Australia?

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

- You can find our website here: ⁠⁠www.ridl.com.au⁠⁠

- Learn more about the UNFCCC here: https://unfccc.int

Hosted by Rhetta Chappell

Conversation with ⁠Paul Miles⁠

Nudge theory and behavioural insights can be powerful tools in the context of improving labour market attachment and training outcomes by using data for social good, as they can help encourage individuals to make better decisions without resorting to coercion or restrictions on personal freedom.

By using data and behavioural insights to design effective nudges, organisations and governments can promote positive social outcomes and improve people's lives. Learn how the BUSY Group, one of Australia’s largest for-purpose employment, education and training organisations is harnessing the power of data insights to provide accessible and relevant opportunities to the people and communities they work with. Join us as we discuss the influence behavioural insights can have when implemented ethically and transparently and the potential it unlocks when especially when working with cohorts facing multiple barriers.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

- You can find our website here: ⁠www.ridl.com.au⁠

- Listen to the BUDGE podcast here hosted by Paul Miles and Dr. Darren Coppin here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3av3jaixewyrfuBADk8jl4?si=15a0e6cf0d334c4c

- Learn more about the BUSY Group here: https://www.busyatwork.com.au

Hosted by Rhetta Chappell

Conversation with Professor Andreas Chai and Dr Tom Verhelst

According to the World Economic Forum (WEF) financial crimes cost the world around two trillion dollars annually and only one percent of that is ever seized. 

Due to the size, spread, complexity and lack of visibility into the bulk of this activity, helping to realise as little as an additional percentage of this problem could reap serious benefits for victims and communities. By providing a sandbox style testing environment to analyse anonymised historical financial transaction data, AFCIC will enable Griffith researchers to use novel and trusted econometric and data science pattern detection techniques to identify key signals within the huge time-series datasets linking transactions and accounts between multiple organisations. AFCIC will then use these insights to develop more proactive, wholistic and sustainable detection and prevention strategies and continually update the training materials for the academy and providing a pipeline of qualified people.

While data provides exciting opportunities to inform decisions which then better help the victims of financial crime, Chai and AFCIC understand that combatting financial crime is a job never done, and one that will require continuous innovation as criminals adjust their behaviour and respond to market restrictions and incentives. If you want to help address this complex issue affecting millions around the world and gain experience working with real-world financial data, we encourage you to check out the Academy of Financial Crime Investigation and Compliance (AFCIC) and enrol in one of their industry leading certifications, diplomas, or micro-credentials. AFCIC is an excellent example of how data can be harnessed, and immense value can be unlocked and used to develop evidenced-based solutions to local and global problems.

If you have any questions or comments, you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you.

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

Show Notes:

- You can find our website here: ⁠www.ridl.com.au⁠

- More about The Academy of Excellence in Financial Crime Investigation and Compliance an contact information can be found here: https://www.griffith.edu.au/academy-financial-crime

www.ridl.com.au

https://www.industry.gov.au/news/our-data-strategy-2021-2024

https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/millennial-survey.html

https://www.lowyinstitute.org/publications/more-young-australians-dismissing-democracy

Conversation with Professor Sharyn Rundle-Thiele

Have you ever noticed when something new is introduced, or a change of behaviour is requested, people respond differently?
Some embrace change, while others require more consultation and convincing. When asked, each group presents a reason within which their behaviour is acceptable.How then does one enact change at scale?

If you have any questions or comments you can reach us on Twitter at @G_RIDL or by email at ridl@griffith.edu.au. Griffith University and the Relational Insights Data Lab (RIDL) are dedicated to building and supporting thriving communities. We believe that the right data, in the hands of the right people, can change lives for the better. We are to committed to collaborating and co-designing solutions which address long standing, complex socio-economic problems. If you or your organisation would like to collaborate or learn more about the important work we do, please get in touch. We'd love to hear why data matters to you. 

Thank you for listening to Show Me the Data.

www.ridl.com.au 

https://www.griffith.edu.au/griffith-business-school/social-marketing-griffith

https://www.industry.gov.au/news/our-data-strategy-2021-2024

www.ridl.com.au

Broken Promises of Privacy (2009) by Paul Ohm 

https://www.industry.gov.au/news/our-data-strategy-2021-2024 

https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/australian-privacy-principles/