Industry News

Philly Analytics’ Web Analytics Wednesdays: Community-Building for Digital Marketing Professionals in the Philadelphia Area

Philly Analytics

Philly Analytics is a community-building organization that brings digital marketing professionals together through meet-ups to spark new conversations and form lasting relationships.

As you may guess by the name, Philly Analytics began with a focus on data science and analytics. The monthly Web Analytics Wednesday (WAW) series is the cornerstone of their events, but they also host meetings focused on other disciplines such as Organic Social, SEO, and Paid Media. Digital marketers from all specialties are welcome to join in the spirit of ongoing growth and collaboration!

A Community-Led Initiative

The original iteration of Web Analytics Wednesdays (WAW) was formed by a group of local digital analysts, including BrainDo co-founder Brian Cosgrove, who wanted to bring like-minded professionals together to share their industry experience.

"Back in the mid-2000's, technology was developing and changing so quickly that there was a real need to come together and talk about our discoveries in the industry. We were at the forefront of new digital marketing practices and strategies."

Brian Cosgrove

Since its creation in 2007, WAW continued to grow year by year, attracting a range of attendees from digital marketing firms and in-house marketing teams across the city and surrounding suburbs.

After gaining sponsorships from companies such as Adobe, Qlik, Seer, Observe Point, Bright Tag, and Tealeaf, WAW was able to continuously expand and establish itself as a premier networking event for analytics. These sponsorships enabled them to procure larger event spaces, more food, and other attractions, bringing more people together for a night of intellectual fun. A robust community for analytics and data professionals was thriving in the Philadelphia area.

Unfortunately when Covid-19 swept across the world, the event series that had gathered so much momentum was forced into hiatus.

WAW Today

In the Winter of 2023 when Covid restrictions had eased and in-person events started to return safely, Brian Cosgrove thought back to the WAW community he helped build. He wanted to restart these meetings under a new umbrella to capture the interests of even more professionals across the digital marketing sphere. Cosgrove reached out to his WAW colleagues and they eagerly answered the call despite the years that had passed.

That is when Philly Analytics was formed, and the new era of Web Analytics Wednesdays began.

What is a Web Analytics Wednesday event like?

At these events, you’ll have the opportunity to network with fellow professionals over light snacks and refreshments, followed by an insightful discussion or presentation. The goal of WAW is to create a welcoming environment where you can make meaningful connections and share valuable industry knowledge.

Discussion Formats

There are three formats WAW events rotate between to keep the conversation dynamic and engaging.

  • Panel: Three to five pre-selected industry experts, led by a moderator, engage in a conversation following prepared prompts. Audience members are encouraged to participate. There is a Q&A period after the formal panel.
  • Open Discussion: This format is similar to the Socratic Seminar method of discussion. Attendees receive a prompt and are encouraged to jump in with their insights, leading to rich, collaborative conversations.
  • Presentation: A formal presentation is given by an industry leader who has volunteered to speak. There are typically 1-2 presentations per meeting, depending on their length, and each one is followed by a Q&A.

WAW has covered a wide range of topics, from specific tools like Customer Data Platforms (CDPs), to broader discussions about the future of analytics and the impact of AI.

Do I need to work in analytics to attend WAW?

Don’t be fooled by the nameanalytics professionals are not the only attendees at these events. Although it is true that WAW has been focused on analytics topics and attracts many analytics professionals, you can also find attendees from a variety of digital marketing disciplines and backgrounds who want to network, share expertise, and learn.

These events provide space for all professionals in our community to connect, share knowledge, and discuss industry trends. A curious mind is the only requirement!

How can I join?

Just show up! Everyone is welcome. Events are posted on BrainDo’s LinkedIn page and in the WAW LinkedIn group. There, you’ll find the latest event announcements and updates.Additional information is available on the Philly Analytics website.

RSVPs are appreciated if possible so there’s enough food and drink for everyone.

I would like to get involved. What should I do?

If you are interested in speaking at, sponsoring, or hosting a Philly Analytics event, please get in touch! Reach out to Ariel, their event coordinator, at ariel@brain.do.

We hope to see you there!

Philly Analytics is always looking to expand its footprint in the community by adding new voices and different perspectives to their conversations. They believe in enriching the professional experience through community building.

We hope to see you at the next Philly Analytics event!

For more details on upcoming events, visit Philly Analytics, join the LinkedIn group, or follow BrainDo.

Join us at WAW to connect, learn, and grow in the vibrant field of web analytics.