#17 - Using data in the right ways
Just because you have a dashboard, doesn't mean you have used data right
This Week’s Principle
When to make decisions with data, and when not to
“How disappointing it is to learn that the best ideas rarely come from data after 15 years of working in the field.” -
caught my attention with that statement, I think he has a point.Sometimes data doesn’t tell you what to do, as it doesn’t capture the complexity of the problem. Instead of worshipping the data-driven decisions, do this:
“Focus on the big problem first, but think in small bets.” - Mikkel Dengsøe
“Small bets” is the part where you can rely on data for validation and decision making. However, for big, complex problems, don’t rush to draw conclusions with the data you have at hand, and listen to your judgement.
This week’s principle is more of a caution for users of data, you can read out more about it in Mikkel’s article here.
This Week’s Operation
Data story versus Operational dashboard
Data story and operational dashboard are intertwined, but also different. And if you attempt to merge the two, it can be quite confusing.
Operational dashboard is meant to be studied by the team in their own time. There is no need for a clear messaging to be made, or narrative to be added. The dashboard needs to bring together all relevant pre-processed information, allowing the team to figure out the “so what” themselves.
A data story is meant to be told, and consumed by the audience. All the thinking effort should all be done in advance, and the “so what” should be vividly presented. Here is when you go to the following tips for data visualisation playbook (link):
Removing unneeded noise to avoid distraction.
Using accents to focus your audience’s attention using colours and sizes.
Adding context to help your audience understand your message.
The nightmare happens when you bring the whole operational dashboard onto your data presentation deck - which sadly I see people did. People got upset with the operational dashboard, and didn’t give it the kind of credit it deserved (for bringing together data in the first place).
That’s it for this week! If you enjoy or get puzzled by the content, please leave a comment so we can continue the discussion. Throw in a like as or share as well if you know of someone who may enjoy this newsletter. Thanks!