“It wasn’t just a data science problem; it required extensive collaboration across diverse teams and disciplines.”
At the Rising 2024 conference, Savita Kumari, Senior Manager of Analytics and Data Science at Aditya Birla Group, delivered a compelling talk on the importance of building purpose-driven teams. Drawing from her experiences at one of India’s leading conglomerates, she shared insights into the challenges faced, setbacks encountered, and strategies employed to foster a culture of purpose within her team.
Challenges and Setbacks:
Savita began by highlighting the prevalent challenges in the fashion industry, where selecting designs that resonate with customers is paramount. Despite efforts to leverage data science and technology, the initial attempts yielded disappointing results. Algorithms lacked accuracy in design selection, and the generated designs fell short of expectations. The setbacks served as a humbling reminder of the complexity of the task at hand, requiring collaboration across diverse teams and disciplines.
Inspiration and Framework Creation:
Amidst the setbacks, she found inspiration in unexpected places, particularly from a movie depicting India’s Mars mission. The resilience and determination of the scientists prompted a shift in perspective. Savita and her team embarked on a journey to redefine their purpose, leading to the creation of a comprehensive framework centered around vision, empowerment, trust, collaboration, and inclusivity.
The 10th Principal Framework:
The framework, aptly named the “10th Principal Framework,” comprises three core components: ways of doing, ways of working, and ways of thinking. These components serve as guiding principles for navigating the complexities of diverse projects and domains within Aditya Birla Group. From data storage choices to strategic initiatives, the framework provides clarity and direction, empowering team members to align their efforts with the broader organizational goals.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Savita’s talk shed light on the significance of purpose-driven teams in driving innovation and success within organizations. By sharing her experiences and insights, she underscored the importance of resilience, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As Aditya Birla Group continues to evolve and tackle new challenges, the commitment to fostering a purpose-driven culture remains unwavering.