Christopher Hernandez
Associate, Strategy & Insights
Driving Innovation Through Data, AI, and Analytics
At SXSW 2025, pharma and biotech leaders made one thing clear: success will belong to those who use AI, analytics, and digital engagement to act faster and think deeper. As a data and analytics partner, 81qd is helping clients do just that.
Our team engaged with industry experts to explore how the integration of emerging technologies, ethical AI use, and cultural relevance is reshaping the healthcare landscape. These insights are already influencing how we support our clients—across commercial strategy, marketing, digital engagement, medical affairs, and market access—in making more informed, agile, and impactful decisions.
Key Themes & Insights from SXSW 2025
A Pop Culture Rx: Health Meets Tech + Creativity
This session explored how digital innovation and strategic partnerships are influencing pop culture and sparking new conversations in healthcare. Chris Lieber (starpower) and Alyson Hagert (Real Chemistry) emphasized how pharma and biotech companies can harness cultural relevance to drive awareness and build meaningful brand connections. Creative ampaigns are evolving into key vehicles for education and trust-building in public health.
AI, Privacy, and the Future of DTC: Walking the Tightrope of Innovation
Luk Arbuckle and David Reim (IQVIA) addressed the delicate balance between AI-powered personalization and responsible data stewardship. The conversation reinforced that as innovation accelerates, so does the need for transparency, trust, and compliance in DTC strategies. Ethical and compliant AI is no longer optional—it’s foundational.
I’m Getting a Hint of Data: Lessons from the Wine Industry
This cross-industry panel featured insights from Genentech, CMI Media Group, FirstLeaf, and IQVIA on how consumer brands are using AI and precision data to craft deeply personalized, omnichannel experiences. The parallels drawn to healthcare underscored the potential for pharma to apply similar principles in engagement, brand differentiation, and message refinement.
Actionable Insights for Pharma & Biotech Teams
Optimizing KOL and DOL Engagement with AI
Traditional stakeholder mapping is no longer enough. Today’s leading teams are integrating claims data, trial activity, social metrics, and digital engagement to understand influence at a deeper level. AI-driven analytics are identifying both legacy experts and emerging voices—critical for shaping credible, science-forward narratives.
How 81qd Helps: Our proprietary solutions empower teams to find not just the right stakeholders—but the ones who can shape the future of treatment adoption. Our proprietary analytics surface both established and rising KOLs in emerging therapeutic areas—fueling earlier, smarter engagement.
Advancing Omnichannel Medical Engagement
One-size-fits-all outreach is falling short. With AI, teams are delivering content that aligns to the preferences and behaviors of specific HCPs and KOLs. The shift to real-time adaptability is making engagements more relevant, measurable, and sustainable.
How 81qd Helps: How 81qd Helps: We build omnichannel strategies informed by real-world data, predictive analytics, and audience insight—ensuring each interaction is purposeful and personalized.
How 81qd Supports Smarter Decisions in a Rapidly Evolving Market
Advanced AI & Predictive Modeling:
Helping teams find the right voices and anticipate future needs.
Integrated Insight Ecosystem:
Connecting disparate data streams—primary, secondary, claims, and competitive intelligence—into cohesive strategies.
Strategic Human Guidance:
Our team collaborates closely with clients to translate insights into aligned, actionable recommendations.
Future-Ready Thinking:
We partner with pharma to not only adapt to change but to lead it.
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready for the Data-Driven Future
The conversations at SXSW 2025 made it clear: pharma and biotech teams must go beyond collecting data—they must build strategies around it. Those who do will be positioned to lead in speed, insight, and impact.
Ready to evolve your market strategy? Let’s talk about how 81qd can support your next big decision. Contact our team.