135 - Insights in the Cloud: Microsoft’s Barry Jennings on B2B Research and the Power of AI

In this episode, Karen Lynch sits down with Barry Jennings, Director of Cloud and Commercial Business Planning Insights at Microsoft, to explore the fascinating world of B2B research and its intersection with cutting-edge AI technologies. Barry shares insights from his extensive experience at Microsoft, Dell, and BlackBerry, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how research drives innovation in the cloud and AI sectors.

From tackling sample quality issues to leveraging AI for faster and smarter decision-making, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for researchers and marketers alike. Whether you're curious about the evolving role of insights professionals or looking for strategies to thrive in the age of AI, this episode delivers thought-provoking ideas and practical advice.

In this episode, we’ll explore:

• B2B Research Dynamics: How Barry’s team at Microsoft supports the commercial business, including cloud and AI solutions like Azure, GitHub, and Fabric.
• Insights Professional’s Journey: Barry’s career path from fieldwork to leading insights teams at major tech companies like Dell and BlackBerry.
• Leveraging AI in Research: How large language models and AI tools are transforming research workflows, increasing efficiency, and enhancing storytelling.
• Challenges in B2B Insights: The unique hurdles of engaging technical audiences, tackling sample fraud, and monetizing innovative cloud-based products.
• Future Outlook: Barry’s advice on adapting to AI advancements and becoming a smarter storyteller to make a bigger impact.

Resources/Links:

• Microsoft Azure

You can reach out to Barry on LinkedIn.



Many thanks to Barry Jennings for joining the show. Thanks also to our production team and our editor at Big Bad Audio.