What or Who is a Data Scientist ?

In many ways Data Scientist is an elusive role. As we internalize the application of big data, the role and the skill sets would evolve …
The two important questions are – “What would a Data Scientist do ?” & “What tools/skillsets does a Data Scientist have in one’s backpocket ?”
Forbes article “The Where, Who, and Why of Data Scientists” is an interesting read
[Update 1] Irving Wladawsky-Berger talks about Data Scientists having hybrid set of IT skills. Interesting blog.
[Update 2] To those who came here directly, a forward pinter to my short blog on Data Science Engineers. To others, this will put you in a loop ;o)
[Update 3] Defining & Differentiating the role of a Data Scientist by Doug Laney is interesting
- Defying the conventional wisdom of Data Scientist = PhD in Statistics, I think Data Scientist is much broader, but with focus on Modes, Algorithms, Visualization, Prediction & Exploration of Big Data, Of course.
Here is my quick take – an equation and a picture to go with it !