CASE

University of Helsinki’s journey toward data-driven leadership

University of Helsinki

The University of Helsinki (UH) has set a long-term goal to enhance its capabilities in data-driven leadership. To achieve this goal, they enlisted the support of AI Roots to guide them on their journey. The long-standing collaboration has evolved into a multi-phase partnership aimed at creating the best possible conditions for UH to advance towards a data-driven future.
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The partnership began with a pilot project in which AI Roots demonstrated how modern BI tools can provide valuable insights to support decision-making in UH's faculty administration. AI Roots' experienced BI expert, Mikko Vikman, guided the university's internal development team in effectively utilizing Power BI and helped resolve technical challenges.

From Pilot to Comprehensive Development
Following the pilot, AI Roots continued to support UH in defining its data-driven leadership strategy. AI Roots’ seasoned data coach Ville Niemijärvi helped UH assess its current state, identify key areas for development, and set clear goals for its data journey. One of the key priorities was the modernization of BI tools to better meet UH’s needs. With Ville’s guidance, UH evaluated modern BI solutions and selected the one most suitable for their requirements.

Alongside the renewal of the BI reporting layer, progress was made in analyzing and planning the migration of the data warehouse to the cloud. Ville supported this work as a coach, collaborating with UH experts to refine internal processes and assisting university leadership in managing the changes effectively.

Ensuring Seamless Implementation and Ongoing Support
The smooth implementation of the new BI tool was ensured with the support of AI Roots’ experienced data architect, Jan-Erik Müller. He worked closely with UH to design an architecture suited to future needs and ensured that the teams were equipped to independently maintain modern reporting systems. Jan’s expertise also proved invaluable in assessing cloud-based data warehouse solutions.

What truly set AI Roots apart in UH’s eyes was their human approach. Major transformations always bring uncertainty, but alongside their technical expertise, Ville and Jan provided the social skills needed to navigate change with ease.
"AI Roots' senior consultants have provided extensive expertise and insights to support the University of Helsinki in developing its data-driven leadership capabilities. They have adapted to UH’s current situation and unique characteristics, offering comprehensive, tailored advice to meet our needs. Together, we’ve found answers and paths forward even in challenging situations, getting UH’s data transformation journey off to a strong start."

Jere Reinikainen, Head of HR and Financial systems and reporting

University of Helsinki

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