I’ve always been shocked by the lack of data in our industry. As an industry, we know virtually nothing about, well, ourselves. Our closed industry keeps data close to its vest, which might benefit your individual company, but does not help the collective group. Amanda Schneider, founder and president of ThinkLab, is trying to change that.

Schneider and her company are working to compile data and information the industry needs to push forward. And if you are in Chicago on the Friday prior to NeoCon, you can benefit from ThinkLab’s research. Schneider is presenting “Ask the Experts: Data-Powered Insights to Win in a Changing Industry,” an interactive, choose-your-own adventure-style keynote designed to answer your most pressing industry questions.

The presentation is Friday, June 6 from noon to 2 p.m. in the NeoCon presentation studio on the second floor of THE MART. You must be registered for NeoCon to attend and you need to RSVP here to attend the event, which includes lunch followed by the keynote.

I’ve never understood our industry’s aversion to data sharing. A friend of mine and fellow journalist worked for Wards Auto, an automotive industry publication that used to publish detailed reports on auto production. You could literally see how many Ford F150s were produced that month and compare the data to production of the Chevrolet Silverado. The publication provided detailed production information that was provided to it by the automakers. Can you imagine readily available production numbers from furniture makers? I know. It’s never going to happen. We can dream.

Where is your data coming from? Do you find yourself guessing? I don’t expect MIllerKnoll to start publishing production numbers for its Aeron chair or Steelcase for its Gesture. But it would be nice if BIFMA could help compile anonymous production numbers to help the industry, though I don’t blame them — I’m sure they would like to provide that to the industry too.

Where do we get our information? From companies like ThinkLab that are doing the work. Schneider’s presentation is excellent. I had the pleasure of hearing her keynote at the INDEAL Champion Conference and it is well worth taking your time to experience it for yourself (I may revisit the presentation since the audience votes from the topics she covers and it is different each time).

The presentation, sponsored by INDEAL, Palladian West and Thumbprint, explores the forces shaping our industry, from shifts in end-user decision-making, building brand loyalty, engaging Gen Z, to thriving in a digital-first world. Using data-driven insights, Schneider leaves attendees with actionable strategies to stay ahead in today’s ever-evolving market.

ThinkLab isn’t the only group compiling data on the industry. INDEAL, Solomon Coyle and BIFMA do as well. Individual companies are working on data as well. I know. I’ve helped some compile it through writeoffice. We need more of it from everyone. Henry Ford said, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” I couldn’t agree more. So let’s work together to improve access to industry data. A rising tide lifts all boats.