ML Dreams & Hard Lessons

As my latest project wrapped up, I decided it was finally time to rebrand and relaunch my company website, datafusion.eu. It felt like traveling back in time, and yes, I know the design might look outdated—please don’t judge!

Back in 2013, I was convinced the future belonged to ML and Big Data. Determined to learn everything I could, I took on any related project. My background is heavily technical, and for a long time, my network consisted mostly of recruiters, service companies, and outsourcing firms. I had little direct contact with end clients or business decision-makers.

In an effort to gain real traction, I personally pitched (through calls and emails) a daring proposition to CEOs of several service/outsourcing companies in my network:

1. My team would analyze their business and build a free proof of concept for any promising ML/Big Data use case.
2. If the POC delivered real value, we’d share the revenue.
3. We’d stick strictly to ML/Big Data (no side projects) and not expand the core team prematurely.

Unfortunately, no one took the offer. We got a few requests to teach their employees, but never a chance to meet with actual clients. And interestingly, none of those companies ended up offering ML, Big Data, or AI services down the line. Eventually, the money ran out and by 2016, we had to close that chapter.

Looking back, I’m still proud of what we did manage to accomplish, especially the talented professionals I worked with — many of whom I’m lucky to call friends today. But I still wonder: What if I’d had a stronger business network or a chance to speak directly with decision-makers?

Fast forward to now: I’ve learned a lot and am excited to share the next chapter of datafusion.eu. (Be kind about the current design; a new look is coming soon!) If you’re curious about tackling tough data challenges, let’s connect. My door (and DMs) are wide open!

Have you ever taken a big swing at an innovative idea that didn’t pan out? I’d love to hear your story in the comments.

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