The power of predictive analytics in today’s uncertain world: A spotlight interview with Sue Ern Lim

Sue Ern Lim is a Chartered Accountant and Business Analyst at the World Health Organization (WHO), specializing in finance, business process optimization, digitalization, and ERP implementations. With a background in strategy consulting and academia, she joined WHO in 2017 to contribute her expertise to the public sector. Passionate about data-driven decision-making, she actively engages in initiatives that enhance analytical capabilities and predictive insights, aligning with the UN 2.0 framework. 

In this spotlight interview with UNSSC's Maria Fernanda Villari, Sue Ern shares her most recent learning experience with the Staff College. 

  
Maria Fernanda : why was it important for you to pursue the UN Data Analytics Professional Certificate? And based on your experience, what did you hope to gain from this learning? 

Sue Ern: When I came across this course, it immediately caught my attention, I felt very excited because we are living in an era where data serves as the foundation for effective decision-making. Behavioral science also plays a crucial role; we often notice that our purchasing decisions are influenced by past purchases, which are part of the data analyzed behind the scenes. Predictive analytics uses this data to suggest products we might want to buy. This impact of data is evident in our daily lives. I wanted to explore how I could further enhance my skills. 

 According to the UN 2.0, data is recognized as a critical enabler for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By pursuing this course, I aim to sharpen my analytical skills and improve my ability to interpret and communicate insights through powerful data visualizations. One aspect that particularly interests me is the vision of building internal capacity for predictive analytics. Storytelling is an integral part of this process, and I want to enhance these skills to contribute more effectively to initiatives and transformation programmes. 

Maria Fernanda : Can you tell us about some of your most memorable parts of your learning experience with UNSSC? 
 
Sue Ern: One of the most memorable aspects of this course is the insightful and interactive sessions led by Dr. Jaume and Demetrio, where we applied real-world case studies to predict dengue outbreaks for surveillance. This hands-on approach allowed me to understand how theoretical data can be translated into practical solutions. 

 Learning alongside diverse professionals from various UN entities has been an enriching experience. I had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from different UN agencies, fostering knowledge exchange and cross-sectoral insights. I found it particularly valuable to examine the impact of data-driven approaches across different domains, as the diverse participants brought unique ideas and perspectives to applying this knowledge.  

Finally, the focus on storytelling was truly transformative. During a session led by Rebecca Pop, we learned the art of presenting complex data through compelling diagrams and infographics. These skills are game-changing for persuasive communication, enhancing our ability to present information in a more impactful manner without relying on verbal explanations. 

Maria Fernanda: An essential part of this learning offering is that you're able to use what you have learned practically. Can you share with us one or two key takeaways from the case study of the course that you chose in predictive? 
 
Sue Ern: I have discovered the power of predictive analytics through the case studies we've examined while practicing forecasting techniques and machine learning modules. These tools enable us to anticipate trends, identify risks, and spot opportunities. This is particularly beneficial in uncertain situations like the one we are currently facing, where we need to predict outcomes such as potential funding sources or gaps and how long we can sustain our budget. I find this foresight, combined with actionable insights, incredibly helpful. This approach also aligns with the progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

Additionally, I believe that data visualizations and storytelling are crucial. Storytelling is a way to showcase our skills, but during this course, I learned that data can tell its own story. By harnessing the knowledge I gained in data visualization, I can now transform information into impactful diagrams that convey messages on their own. These visual representations engage audiences and stakeholders, serving as real-world evidence to facilitate informed decision-making. Overall, I highly recommend this program to everyone. It equips us with cutting-edge analytical skills, data visualization techniques, and predictive analytics. Furthermore, it aligns with human transformations, making us more agile, data-informed, and results-oriented. 

 
Maria Fernanda: You mentioned one of your most memorable moments was being able to connect with peers from different UN organizations. Can you tell us a bit more about this ? 
 
 
Sue Ern: Predictive analytics is completely new to me. Although I have experience in financial modeling, which relies heavily on established data and organizational knowledge from my previous role at KPMG, this current task of predicting something like a Dengue outbreak feels outside my comfort zone. As a chartered accountant by profession, this is a significant shift for me. To navigate this challenge, I paired up with a colleague from the Manila office who shares similar uncertainties about how to approach this work. We frequently exchange questions, thoughts, and experiences, discussing how we can apply our insights to our daily tasks.  

This collaboration has given me the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world and share diverse knowledge. I believe this platform is incredibly valuable for communication. While we often interact within our own organizations, this initiative allows us to engage across different agencies, which I find to be wonderful. 

Maria Fernanda: Do you have any words for future participants or any of upcoming cohorts? 
  
Sue Ern: You can always learn something new.  Instead of fearing the potential risks or uncertainties associated with artificial intelligence, embrace it. Take the first step, learn with an open heart, and you will discover the beauty in this journey.