In today’s digital age, data is the new currency and it’s no longer just for big corporations. Small businesses in New York City are increasingly tapping into data science to optimize their operations, reduce costs, and create better customer experiences.
But what does this look like in practice? How can independent business owners leverage data science to compete with bigger brands?
In this article, we’ll explore five real-world examples of NYC-based companies that have successfully integrated data science to increase efficiency, boost sales, and personalize experiences. Then, we’ll walk through three practical steps that small businesses can take to get started on their data science journey.
1. Taboola: Personalization Through Data-Driven Content
What They Do:
Taboola, a NYC-based digital media company, uses AI and data science to predict what content will engage users. If you’ve ever scrolled to the bottom of an article and seen “You May Also Like” suggestions, you’ve probably interacted with Taboola’s recommendation engine.
Using machine learning, Taboola analyzes user preferences, click behavior, and reading history to serve highly relevant content to millions of people. This level of personalization increases time spent on websites and ad revenue for their business partners.
How Small Businesses Can Apply This:
If you run a blog, e-commerce store, or content-driven business, data science can help you personalize product recommendations, emails, and marketing campaigns.
Use Google Analytics or AI-powered tools like Optimizely to track what pages customers visit most.
Implement email automation that personalizes content based on past purchases or browsing habits.
Try AI-driven chatbots (like Drift or Tidio) to guide customers toward the right products based on their preferences.
Takeaway: Personalization drives engagement. The more relevant your content or products, the more likely customers are to stay, return, and buy.
2. Olo: Optimizing Online Orders for Restaurants
What They Do:
Olo, another NYC-based company, empowers restaurants by helping them streamline online ordering and delivery logistics. They analyze customer data to improve efficiency, predict peak ordering times, and reduce delays.
For example, Olo’s system can detect patterns in customer behavior, like when most people order lunch and recommend better staffing schedules and food prep times to prevent bottlenecks.
How Small Businesses Can Apply This:
If you own a restaurant, bakery, or coffee shop, you can use data to reduce wait times and improve service quality.
Use sales data (via POS systems like Square or Toast) to identify busy hours and optimize staffing.
Implement AI-based dynamic pricing (like Zuppler) to adjust prices based on demand.
If offering delivery, partner with an AI-driven logistics platform like Routific to minimize delivery time and costs.
Takeaway: Restaurants that leverage data for scheduling, pricing, and delivery management can improve efficiency without increasing costs.
3. Qloo: AI-Driven Cultural & Consumer Insights
What They Do:
Qloo, a NYC-based AI company, analyzes cultural preferences and consumer behavior to help businesses personalize recommendations.
For example, Qloo’s data science platform can predict:
What type of music a customer might enjoy based on their favorite restaurants.
Which fashion brands appeal to someone who enjoys a particular type of movie.
How Small Businesses Can Apply This:
If you own a boutique, art gallery, or personal services business, you can use data to create tailored experiences for your customers.
Offer product recommendations based on customer purchase history using AI tools like Shopify’s AI Assistant.
Use sentiment analysis (via Brandwatch or Sprout Social) to track how customers feel about your brand online.
Partner with complementary businesses to create AI-driven recommendations (e.g., a wine bar partnering with a jazz club for a curated experience).
Takeaway: The better you understand your customers, the more valuable your recommendations will be, leading to stronger loyalty and more sales.
4. SevenRooms: AI-Powered Reservations & Guest Management
What They Do:
SevenRooms is a hospitality-focused data platform that helps restaurants and hotels optimize guest experiences through smart reservations, waitlists, and customer data analysis.
It helps businesses:
Identify loyal, high-spending guests and offer exclusive promotions.
Track guest preferences (e.g., preferred table, dietary restrictions).
Use AI to predict which nights will be busiest and adjust seating strategies accordingly.
How Small Businesses Can Apply This:
If you run a restaurant, bar, or event space, use data to personalize guest experiences and increase retention.
Use OpenTable’s Guest Insights to track repeat visitors and spending habits.
Implement loyalty programs powered by AI (My Huzza, Belly, Fivestars) to reward frequent customers.
Offer dynamic promotions based on demand (e.g., discount drinks on slow nights).
Takeaway: Personalized service makes customers feel valued, leading to repeat visits and higher spending.
5. NYC-Based Retail Chain: Smarter Digital Signage & Targeted Ads
What They Did:
A fast-food chain in NYC implemented AI-driven digital signage that changes based on:
Time of day (e.g., coffee promotions in the morning, burger deals at night).
Weather (e.g., hot soup on cold days, ice cream when it’s hot).
Nearby foot traffic trends (e.g., ads adjusting based on local events).
How Small Businesses Can Apply This:
If you own a retail store, coffee shop, or fast-casual restaurant, data science can help you drive more sales.
Use Google My Business insights to see when customers visit most and adjust promotions accordingly.
Invest in AI-driven digital signage (like CrownTV) to show real-time, targeted promotions.
Use location-based ads (via Google Ads Smart Campaigns) to target foot traffic near your store.
Takeaway: The right message, at the right time, to the right people, equals more sales.
How Small Businesses Can Start with Data Science
Now that you’ve seen what’s possible, how do you get started?
1. Prepare Your Infrastructure
Before diving into AI, organize your data:
Use a POS system that tracks sales trends.
Implement CRM tools (HubSpot, Zoho) to capture customer info.
Store data securely using cloud solutions (like Google Cloud or AWS).
2. Test Existing AI Tools
No need to build from scratch! Start with:
Google Analytics for website insights.
Square Analytics for retail sales trends.
Chatbots (like Tidio) for automated customer support.
3. Customize & Build Bespoke Solutions
Once you see what works, refine it:
Hire a freelance data analyst or an agency to build custom reports.
Test AI-driven recommendations via email marketing.
Partner with tech companies that offer affordable AI integrations.
Final Thoughts: Data Science = Business Growth
NYC’s smartest businesses aren’t just collecting data, they’re using it to:
Increase efficiency
Boost sales
Improve customer loyalty
No matter how small your business is, data science can help you work smarter, not harder. The key is starting small, testing solutions, and scaling as you grow.
What’s your next move? At Huzza World, we are here to help you achieve your goals, start the conversation today.
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