Navigating Life and Work with Data-Driven Precision

Each year, International Women's Day is commemorated as a salute to the accomplishments, fortitude, and perseverance of women worldwide. To align with this celebration, I engaged in a vibrant conversation with Priyanka Lingwal, Cadence's Director of Marketing Data Analytics and an analytics maven with a flair for turning raw data into actionable insights, who uncovers the evolving landscape of analytics and its intimate tango with emerging technologies like AI. Priyanka, whose roots are deeply embedded in academia, brings a fresh perspective to the analytics domain, emphasizing the blend of industry knowledge and Cadence in unraveling the myriad mysteries data conceals.

Priyanka, could you start by sharing your journey and what led you to where you are today?

Well, it's quite a journey. I hail from the Himalayan regions of India but found myself near the Pacific Ocean, a journey spanning thousands of miles. Coming from a lineage of academicians, learning has always been integral to my life. Initially starting in microbiology and technology, I gravitated towards the technological aspects, particularly statistics, which has remained a passion. The allure of turning data into actionable insights, coupled with my love for storytelling, drew me into the realm of analytics.

Your journey indeed sounds fascinating. Could you elaborate on why you chose marketing for your analytics endeavors and perhaps shed some light on your team's role?

Interestingly, I didn't choose marketing; it chose me. Through various experiences across different domains within Cadence, I realized the pivotal role analytics plays in making marketing credible. Analytics is the backbone of marketing, offering tangible insights that build trust and drive strategic decision-making. As for my team, we transcend traditional marketing boundaries, focusing on holistic data analytics solutions. From sales to HR, we're entrusted with turning raw data into actionable insights, fostering collaboration across departments, and driving business success.

Your approach to analytics is truly holistic. Can you provide a concrete example of how your team's insights drive business decisions, perhaps related to a project at Cadence?

Certainly, let's consider our e-commerce initiative. By analyzing user behavior on our online platform, we identified bottlenecks in the customer journey. Through meticulous analysis and collaboration with stakeholders, we unearthed insights that informed targeted interventions, from optimizing landing pages to refining product offerings. This iterative process of data-driven decision-making empowers us to continually enhance the customer experience and drive business growth.

Your commitment to leveraging data for tangible outcomes is evident. How do you stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in analytics?

Staying updated in this dynamic industry is paramount. I immerse myself in webinars, industry events, and networking opportunities, constantly seeking new perspectives and insights. As our senior vice president and CFO, John Wall, aptly put it, "networking is working." When I commit to enhancing my networking skills, I take on ten different strategies, knowing that navigating through the other nine will be worthwhile if even one proves beneficial. This single valuable outcome justifies sifting through the additional noise.

Beyond formal channels, I have a voracious appetite for learning, fueled by my academic background and passion for continuous improvement.

Your commitment to continuous learning is inspiring. Shifting gears, could you share a bit about your personal life and interests outside of work?

Born into a family where academia is a way of life, my heritage is rich with educators. My mother, a professor of sociology, and my father, a professor of chemistry, hail from a long line of scholars. This legacy of learning is not only a part of my history but infuses the ethos of my own household.

Married to an accomplished computer scientist, we share the common bond of intellectual curiosity, though I modestly concede his accomplishments tower over mine. Together, we are raising two wonderful children. My son, eager to assert his age with precision, is almost seven, proudly declaring himself to be six and three-quarters, while my daughter, nearing her third birthday, brings boundless energy and joy into our lives. Indeed, managing a career alongside nurturing two young lives feels akin to juggling more than three full-time jobs.

Outside of work, I find solace in poetry and prioritize fitness. I'm particularly passionate about strength training and exploring the science behind genetics and aging. As a mother of two, balancing personal interests with familial responsibilities is a juggling act. Still, I firmly believe in prioritizing self-care and carving out time for what matters most.

Your dedication to well-being is commendable. Lastly, what are your thoughts on the future of analytics and the impact of AI in shaping this landscape?

I'm truly thankful to our vice president of Corporate Marketing, KT Moore, for selecting me to spearhead the integration of AI within our marketing teams. AI is akin to the revolution sparked by mobile technology. Initially, it was a luxury only a few could afford, but it has rapidly evolved to become a ubiquitous tool accessible to all. This rapid expansion and widespread adoption made it an essential part of daily life, easily navigated regardless of one's tech-savvy. Similarly, AI is on the brink of becoming a fundamental element in technology. Resistance may render some obsolete, while adaptation will enable others to overcome the challenge and advance. So, let's embrace AI and be part of the technological revolution rather than become extinct like dinosaurs.

The future of analytics is intertwined with AI, heralding a new era of data-driven decision-making. As AI permeates every facet of business operations, from real-time analysis to predictive modeling, analytics will only become more indispensable. Embracing AI isn't just a choice; it's necessary to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Thank you, Priyanka, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. It's been a pleasure delving into the world of marketing data analytics with you.

This conversation with Priyanka Lingwal serves as an intellectual exercise and a call to action. It's a clarion call for all of us to rise to the challenge of the age of analytics and AI to understand that the future is not waiting but unfolding at this very moment. It's imperative for businesses not just to understand the language of data but to write their own narrative of success, with data as their indisputable guide.