Pythons, Pandas and EBUGs:
Summit team tackles
data-analysis improvements

The Python/Ebug team at this fall's Leadership Summit featured a diverse group of data nerds – their own description – bent on world domination. OK, maybe not world domination, but they certainly were aiming to expand their dominion.

"We've been given a new Geographic Information System pointed in the right direction (which is not always due north), and sent off to develop our plan to take over," explained Team Lead Margaret Pridmore, the Roadway Data guru.

In reality, they wanted to create a path blending knowledge, skills and abilities to increase productivity in the area of data analysis.

"Being able to locate data is vital to what we do, whether we are collecting data or analyzing it. So, when ITD implemented a new location referencing system called ESRI Roads and Highways, many of us data owners, stewards, and analysts were excited at the potential," Pridmore explained.

They created a group called EBUG (ESRI Business User's Group) to share experiences with the others in the group and learn.

"Our organization is great at implementing technology, but not necessarily all that great at determining how to use it to the best of its abilities, or maintain a strong technology training program," she explained. "Underutilization of these assets is a common problem."

Originally, this bunch of analysts from Division of Engineering Services (DES), Division of Engineering Plans and Products (DEPP), and District 3 had a common goal of learning about this new location referencing system.

"However, that original intent morphed over time," said Pridmore. "We realized that what was truly needed was a training program. It goes back to implementing technology without training in place."

VIDEO: Watch the team's opening pitch at the summit.

Pridmore says their ultimate goal is to produce a full training program (with the help of ETS, Training, and ESRI) and roll it out at the Program Delivery Conference this spring.

"One of the best things to come out of the summit was that two GIS analysts in the districts asked to become members.

"If you can't tell, we're excited," Pridmore said. "This project will benefit employees across ITD, not just people at Headquarters."

Team #12 – Python/EBUG Club
Champion: Chris Victory
Team Leader: Margaret Pridmore
Facilitator: Laura Meyer
Team Members: Raymond Wong, John Philips, Maranda Obray, Dorothy Aydelotte, J.R. Wolters, Chapman Munn, Kelly Campbell, David Coladner, Vicky Calderon.

Published 12-14-18