Fernando de la Rosa is the new speaker at the Girbau LAB Innovators Club

February marks the beginning of a new season for the Innovators Club, featuring Fernando de la Rosa as the guest speaker. Fernando is a versatile professional whose career spans entrepreneurship, consulting, and teaching. He has founded four companies, leading business development and B2B sales. As a consultant, he has helped companies optimize their digital strategy, communication, and corporate training. Additionally, he is an active professor, sharing his insights on the impact of the digital world on business.

Under the title “Why Do You Want Data If You Don’t Listen to It?“, Fernando explores the importance of data in decision-making, both in business and daily life. Through a dynamic and interactive approach, he examines how we often rely more on intuition than on available information and the consequences this can have on our results. The session delves into the real value of data, the definition of a good decision, and the biases that affect our interpretation, offering a fresh perspective on how to use data effectively to improve decision-making and achieve better outcomes.

What role do data play in business decision-making?

Data is the key ingredient for improving decision-making in companies. It allows businesses to operate more efficiently, reduce errors, and anticipate problems before they arise. A company that truly leverages data not only collects it but also transforms it into useful information to improve processes and identify new opportunities. However, data alone doesn’t work magic—the real value lies in how we interpret and use it to make better decisions at the right time.

Do we really rely on data for decision-making, or do we ignore it when it doesn’t suit us?

Yes, more often than we think. Many times, we believe we are making data-driven decisions, but in reality, we use data to justify what we already intended to do. This happens because decisions are not purely rational; they also involve emotions and past experiences. To avoid this trap, it’s crucial to approach data with an open mind, accept when it contradicts our intuitions, and use it as a compass rather than just a confirmation of our beliefs.

What types of biases can distort our interpretation of data, and how can we avoid them?

Biases are unconscious filters that lead us to misinterpret data. One of the most common is confirmation bias, where we seek out data that supports our existing beliefs and ignore information that contradicts them. Another is availability bias, where we give more weight to information that is readily available rather than looking for more representative data. To avoid these errors, we must ask critical questions, cross-check sources, and remember that no data is entirely neutral—it all depends on how it is measured and interpreted.

Data vs. Intuition?

It’s not a battle between the two but rather a combination. Intuition is valuable because it is based on experience, but it can lead to poor decisions if not backed by data. On the other hand, data provides objective information, but without proper interpretation, it can be misleading or even lead us in the wrong direction. The ideal approach is to use intuition to generate hypotheses and data to validate them. This way, we make more informed decisions and reduce uncertainty.

What are the best practices for using data effectively in decision-making?

To use data effectively, the first step is to identify which decisions actually require data and which can be made based on experience or intuition. Next, it is essential to develop models that transform data into meaningful insights and to continuously review and refine these models. Looking at numbers alone is not enough—we must understand their context and ask the right questions. Additionally, data security and ethics must always be considered, as misinterpretation or irresponsible use can create more problems than solutions.

What role will data play in the future of the industrial laundry sector?

In the industrial laundry sector, data can make a significant difference. It can be used to optimize washing and drying times, reduce water and energy consumption, and anticipate demand to minimize waste. It can also improve logistics, ensuring more efficient deliveries and lowering costs. As technology advances, companies that use data intelligently will gain a competitive edge, operating more sustainably and profitably.