Communicating data-driven insights

Demystifying Decision Science

Akshay Swaminathan

PD Soros Fellow at Stanford University School of Medicine

Data detectives

Decision scientists uncover patterns and solve problems using data
But insights only have impact when shared clearly and inspire action

Data storytelling is about transforming raw data into a narrative that captivates and informs

Highlights key trends, outliers, or relationships
Connect the dots to form a clear and meaningful message

Frame insights as stories

Data discovery: satisfaction scores below 3.5 significantly increase customer churn

"Our analysis shows a critical tipping point - customers are far more likely to leave when satisfaction scores fall below a certain level. Improving customer experience at this stage could be the key to reducing churn and protecting revenue."

Framing insights as a story helps: connect with your audience, highlight urgency, and make the insight compelling and actionable.

Don't complicate, clarify

Use line charts to show trends over time
Use bar charts to compare values across categories
Use scatter plots to explore relationships or correlations
Keep visuals simple, uncluttered, and labelled

Tailor your message to your audience

Focus on the "so what?"

Highlight the implications of your findings
Show how your insight addresses business needs or priorities

Know your audience

Executives want high-level takeaways and strategic impact
Technical teams may want methodology, data detail, and model performance

Adapt how you present

Use different levels of detail, visuals, and storytelling based on who you're speaking to
Align your message with what matters most to each group

Let's practice!

Demystifying Decision Science