Torture the data, and it will confess to anything.

—Irving J Good “The American Statistician.” (1972) [i]

TWIST DATA, LOSE TRUTH

Data tells stories. But like any good tale, the truth depends on how you tell it. In digital change, we sift through data to guide decisions. Sometimes, we push data until it fits our needs. But that's risky. Real insight comes from clear, honest data analysis—not from forcing it to support our biases. Data can illuminate the path of change if we treat it with respect.

Takeaways. Look at data objectively to see the real story; Avoid manipulating data to fit preconceived ideas; Use data to inform decisions, not to dictate them; Recognize the power of data in shaping digital change.

Fundamental Concepts. Data confesses under pressure. That's Confirmation Bias. Analysts hunt for patterns. That's Patternicity. Change hangs on interpretation. That's Attribution Theory. Bias blinds, truth enlightens. That's Cognitive Dissonance. Wise managers seek truth, not comfort. That's Informed Decision-Making. Data guides, not decides. That's Rational Emotive Behavior. Clarity in data, clarity in strategy. That's Action-Oriented Management. Understanding data improves outcomes. That's Evidence-Based Practice. Seek facts, not fiction. That's Intellectual Integrity.

Bottom Line. Handle data carefully in digital transformation. Look for truth, not just patterns that fit our ideas. Honest data analysis lights the way for informed decisions and successful change.