Three keys to communicating effectively

Introduction to Data Literacy

Anneleen Rummens

Data Scientist

The three keys

Focus

Keeps it relevant, to the point and meaningful

 

Structure

Acts as a guide and increases understandability

 

Form

Ensures it is tailored to its purpose and the audience

Introduction to Data Literacy

Focus

  • Select the right data
  • Select the right visualizations
  • Keep your central message in mind

Introduction to Data Literacy

Building your central message

Describe in a few sentences the take-home message

  1. Problem
  2. Insights
  3. Impact

(Problem) Average math scores of students at University A are in decline for the last three years.

(Insights) Data analysis indicates that more students enroll with a weaker starting knowledge of mathematics.

(Impact) By organizing math summer schools, University A can help students better prepare for the expected knowledge level of mathematics.

Introduction to Data Literacy

Structure

  • Use structuring techniques like storytelling and McCandless
  • Think about visual structure in the lay-out
  • Prepare an outline in advance and use this as a blueprint

Introduction to Data Literacy

Crafting an outline

  1. Introduction
    • Data problem statement
    • Context
    • Objectives
  2. Body
    • Data
    • Analysis
    • Key findings
  3. Conclusions
    • Insights
    • Recommendations

Introduction to Data Literacy

Form

  • Medium: oral vs. written communication
  • Language: technical vs. non-technical
  • Scope: short- vs. long-form

 

To find the appropriate format: think about the purpose of your communication and its audience

Introduction to Data Literacy

Thinking about your audience

  • Who are they?
  • What do they need to know?
  • What do they want?

 

The University board:

  • Non-technical managers
  • Need to know key findings
  • Want specific recommendations
Introduction to Data Literacy

Let's practice!

Introduction to Data Literacy

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