Data is the foundation of any information graphic. But it may be difficult to assess whether the data you use is reliable, accurate, and relevant for your purpose. This article will explore some methods for evaluating the quality and credibility of data sources and overcoming common pitfalls.
Before you start looking for data, develop a clear idea of what you want to communicate, who your audience is, and what questions you want to answer. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid irrelevant or misleading data. Consider the type, format, and level of detail of the data you need, and how it fits with your design and narrative goals.
Evaluating data sources starts with asking the right questions: Who produced the data? What’s their expertise or bias? For me, it’s essential to cross-check with multiple sources and look for transparency in methodology. Trustworthy data tells a clear story about how it was collected and why it matters—without that, the foundation feels shaky.
One of the most important steps in evaluating data is to check the source. Who collected, analyzed, and published the data? What is their reputation, expertise, and agenda? How transparent and accountable are they about their methods and results? Look for data sources that are credible, authoritative, and independent, and avoid sources that are biased, outdated, or unverified.
Where possible, look for the raw data from the original source. Do your own evaluations, ask tough questions, and double-check your analysis.
Another key step is to assess the quality of the data itself. How accurate, consistent, and complete is the data? How relevant, timely, and representative is the data for your topic and context? How well does the data measure what it claims to measure? Prioritize data that is valid, reliable, and comprehensive, and avoid data that is inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated.
If all you can find is old data, be sure to include the dates in your analysis and references. Sometimes old data is all that is available as it takes time for sources to cultivate information. But you want to add dates to keep you credible and to add perspective to your analysis.
Sometimes, you may find conflicting or contradictory data from different sources. How do you decide which data to use or trust? One way is to compare and contrast the data, and look for similarities, differences, and patterns. Consider the reasons and explanations for the discrepancies, and how they affect your interpretation and message. Look for data that is consistent, coherent, and corroborated, and avoid data that is isolated, inconsistent, or unexplained.
Conflicting data can be another level to the story. If both trends are pointing in the right direction, does that change or enhance the analysis you are making? If you find inconsistencies, then contact the original source for clarification.
Finally, use data ethically and responsibly in your information graphic. This means respecting the rights and privacy of the data subjects, acknowledging the sources and limitations of the data, and avoiding manipulation or distortion of the data. Be aware of your own assumptions, biases, and perspectives, and how they influence your data selection and presentation. Look for data that is fair, honest, and respectful, and avoid data that is deceptive, misleading, or harmful.
Data comes alive and useful information when the “why” of it is shared. Managers share 5 slides of data Leaders share one-line analysis which becomes actionable information. That's the first step of data storytelling The world needs it more than ever
It can be very easy to manipulate data, especially if there is a trend you are trying to find. Ask yourself tough questions and get your analysis reviewed by trusted partners. But above all, always include your originals sources in your references to enhance your credibility.