Data science is sexy.
Because all companies generate data, and they need to analyze that data in order to make informed business decisions, number nerds are in hot demand across virtually every industry, from retail and finance to healthcare, insurance and IT.
But with data science jobs listings projected to grow to nearly 3 million by 2020, companies are struggling to fill open roles fast enough.
That’s where Harvard-backed startup Experfy is stepping in.
As companies dive into emerging technologies, they need to get employees up to speed"
Three years ago, Experfy launched a marketplace for data science experts (as well as for thought leaders in machine learning, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things) while offering training courses to aspiring data scientists.
Using the marketplace, companies can post open projects they need help with and hire one of the 30,000 experts currently in Experfy’s online network.
“The data science space is changing constantly with new technologies like machine learning and automation, so finding experts locally can be a big challenge,” said Ashwin Choithramani, marketing consultant at Experfy. “Using Experfy’s platform, companies can find an expert immediately and save 10 times what they’d normally spend on consulting services.”
Not just anyone can join the platform, though.
Experfy uses an algorithm that scores candidates based on the data and experience they provide, ranking professionals accordingly.
Under a year ago, Experfy rolled out the second part of its business: an online training platform.
These 60-odd classes are meant for individuals as well as corporate training and are taught by the same experts applying for open jobs on the Experfy platform.
“Training goes hand in hand with consulting,” Choithramani explained. “As companies dive into emerging technologies, they need to get employees up to speed. That’s why we’re working with companies to understand what their needs are, and creating courses accordingly.”
Experfy hopes to have over 300 courses available on the training platform by the end of 2017.
