How to turn data into stories

Summary

Cole from Storytelling with Data conducts a mini-workshop addressing the challenge of turning to multiple sources for data and the importance of cohesive communication. The session, held from their new studio in Milwaukee, begins by recognizing the 10,000th registrant, Johnny Weathersby. Cole dives into a scenario where he, as an HR business partner, must present sales manager data, emphasizing the need to streamline information from various systems into a unified format. He discusses the common pitfalls of data presentation, such as clutter and inconsistency, and offers strategies to declutter, maintain consistency, and effectively communicate data through compelling graphs and storytelling. The workshop also covers how to enhance graphs by focusing attention and using words wisely, ultimately weaving multiple graphs into a compelling narrative that drives action. Cole promotes their 2024 public workshop schedule, offering various formats to cater to different learning needs, and highlights the value of storytelling in data communication, emphasizing its ability to provoke thought and support decision-making.

Takeaways

• 📈 **Start with Good Graphs**: Begin by creating clear and clutter-free graphs that effectively communicate data.
• 🎨 **Cut the Clutter**: Eliminate unnecessary elements from graphs to make them easier to understand and visually appealing.
• 📊 **Consistency is Key**: Ensure that all graphs follow a consistent style in terms of fonts, colors, and graph sizes for a cohesive look.
• 🧐 **Focus Attention Sparingly**: Use visual contrast and color wisely to highlight the most important parts of the data.
• 📝 **Use Words Wisely**: Pair visual elements with clear and concise text to guide the audience towards the main takeaways.
• 📉 **Weave a Story**: Transform individual graphs into a narrative that provides context and calls to action.
• 👥 **Collaborate for Data**: Work with different team members and systems to gather and consolidate data for a comprehensive view.
• 🌐 **Global Participation**: Embrace the opportunity to learn and share knowledge with a diverse, worldwide audience.
• 📚 **Continuous Learning**: Utilize various resources such as books, workshops, and online communities to improve data storytelling skills.
• 🎓 **Educational Resources**: Leverage 'Storytelling with Data' workshops and books to deepen understanding and application of data visualization techniques.
• 🏆 **Recognize Engagement**: Acknowledge and celebrate milestones, such as the 10,000th registrant, to build excitement and encourage participation.

Q & A

What is the main challenge that Cole addresses in the workshop?

The main challenge addressed is turning to multiple people or different systems to gather data and then presenting it cohesively.

What is the significance of the new production studio at Storytelling with Data headquarters?

The new production studio is significant as it marks the first time they are broadcasting from their headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

How many people registered for the event mentioned in the script?

More than 10,000 people registered for the event.

What does Cole suggest as the first step to improve the presentation of disparate data?

The first step suggested is to cut the clutter and make the details consistent across different graphs.

What is the importance of using a template when working with colleagues to gather data?

A template ensures consistency in presentation elements such as fonts, colors, and graph sizes, making it easier to pull together cohesive data presentations.

What is the recommended approach when you have multiple graphs that need to be presented together?

Instead of putting all graphs on a single slide, which can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation, it's better to simplify the design and focus on clear communication of each graph's key points.

What does Cole suggest to eliminate visual clutter from a graph?

Cole suggests removing unnecessary elements like graph borders, grid lines, and excessive labels to reduce visual clutter.

How can color be used effectively in data presentation?

Color can be used sparingly to create visual contrast and direct the audience's attention to specific data points or trends.

What is the 'Great Leap Forward' Cole mentions?

The 'Great Leap Forward' refers to the process of turning good graphs into a stellar story by weaving multiple graphs together and driving people to take specific actions based on the data shared.

What are some of the resources available for learning more about data storytelling?

Resources include Storytelling with Data's YouTube channel, their blog, articles, podcast episodes, and the online community for practice and feedback. They also offer public workshops, an 8-week online course, and custom sessions.

What is the difference between data visualization and data storytelling?

Data visualization is the process of turning data into visual graphics, while data storytelling involves using elements of narrative to engage the audience and guide them through the data's significance and implications.