The Data Path Less Traveled

Become proficient in using heuristics within the data science pipeline to produce higher quality results in less time. Although data professionals have used heuristics for many years within optimization-related applications, heuristics have been a vibrant area of research in various data-related areas, from machine learning to image processing. Heuristics also play a role in niche applications such as cybersecurity. In addition, the advent of AI and other data-driven methodologies have brought heuristics to the forefront of data-related work. In this book, we explore heuristics from a practical perspective. We illustrate how heuristics can help you solve challenging problems through simple examples and real-life situations. Apply Jaccard Similarity and a variant, F1 score, Entropy, Ectropy, Area Under Curve, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Genetic Algorithms (along with GA variants). Beyond just exhibiting the various known and lesser-known heuristics available today, we also examine how you can go about creating your own through a simple and functional framework. Code notebooks enable you to practice all of the techniques and explore a few of your own. There is no doubt that the data-driven paradigm is here to stay. There are many ways to stand out in it as a data professional, with AI-related know-how being at the top of the list. However, equally impactful can be the creative tools (heuristics) that make such technologies feasible and scalable. Unfortunately, this is a way that not many people care to follow as it's off the beaten path. Are you up for the challenge?