From Data to Storytelling: How Data Scientists Will Be the Next Influencers

We exist in an age of data abundance — but raw data inherently has no power to move people. But what really stuck with us is the why behind those numbers. It may be idealistic, but I have come to realise that data scientists can actually influence life the same way self—help influencers do — and no longer just by displaying how complex their models are. Instead: Translate those insights into stories powerful enough to make people want...

My Personal Experience

I recall an analysis of consumer behavior that I engaged in only recently. Where they had all the data points you could ever want: purchase history, digital behavior, customer satisfaction. It seemed at first like just another deluge of data flowing in the typical form that most any performing team looks over every day. However, once we wove those data points into the larger narrative of what consumer preferences were doing —when together told a story about why these changes happened— it was like everything fell into place. The data, abruptly not just ephemeral words. That was a little playbook for the C-suite to take some real decisions on informed basis. The project was a catalyst for this business decision and I learnt an invaluable lesson that day.

The Art of data-driven storytelling

Being technically sound is not enough; we must also communicate in ways that are understandable to non-technical audiences. I conceive of data storytelling as a skill that combines analysis and empathy.

Here are some approaches that I have found useful:

Make it relatable: Relatability is essential for effective storytelling. There is no need to bombard individuals with jargon. Instead, find a method to relate the facts to something everyone can grasp. If you're presenting churn data, discuss the human experience that leads customers to abandon a service.

Give your data a Hero's journey: Structure plays an important role in narrative. Consider framing your thoughts in the form of a story arc—what is the problem, where is the turning point, and what is the resolution? When data is integrated into a journey, decision-makers can better follow and assimilate it.

Data visualizations as storytelling tools: A simple graph may convey a thousand words, but only if it is created with the story in mind. Use images not just to present facts, but also to highlight the story behind it. For example, Netflix's recommendation engine did more than just give viewers data; it constructed a story about each person's preferences.

Real-World Case Studies of companies transforming Business with Data Stories

I often ponder about Airbnb's impact on the travel industry. Their success was due not just to their access to vast quantities of data, but also to their understanding of how to frame that data as part of a wider story—people don't simply book someplace to stay, they book experiences. That understanding influenced how they advertised themselves, and it was all based on data-driven storytelling.

We can also consider how Spotify curates music for millions of people. Sure, there's a lot of computational wizardry going on behind the scenes, but the true genius is in how they've structured their data findings. It's more than just, "Here's a playlist." to the expression: "here's the soundtrack to your life." That's a moving and intriguing story.

The Future of Data Scientists as Influencers.

What I believe is that the future belongs to data scientists who can bridge the gap between data and human comprehension. Data is becoming the language of decision-making, but we must guarantee that information is accessible and actionable. Our effect will be defined by our credibility as storytellers, whether we are driving business initiatives or affecting public policy. So, how do we get started? It all starts with asking the appropriate questions. What story does this data tell? Who needs to hear this? Answer those questions, and you'll find yourself pushing change more than just providing data.

I'd Like To Hear From You All:

Have you ever worked on a project where the use of data storytelling was crucial? How can the requirement for straightforward communication be balanced with technical rigor? Let's exchange stories; I'd be interested in finding out how you handle storytelling in your writing.

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