How do you show the value of your data analysis?

1 Know your audience

Before you start preparing your data presentation, you need to understand who your audience is and what they expect from you. Are they technical or non-technical? Are they familiar with the data sources and methods you used? Are they interested in the details or the big picture? What are their goals and pain points? How will they use your data analysis to make decisions or take actions? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your data presentation to their needs, preferences, and level of understanding.

2 Choose the right format

Depending on your audience and the purpose of your data presentation, you may choose different formats to convey your data analysis. For example, you may use a report, a dashboard, a slide deck, a video, or an interactive tool. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider the following factors: How much detail do you need to provide? How much interactivity do you want to offer? How much time do you have to prepare and present? How will your audience access and consume your data presentation? Choose the format that best suits your data analysis and your audience's expectations.

3 Use clear and consistent language

One of the most important aspects of showing the value of your data analysis is using clear and consistent language. You want to avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical terms that may confuse or alienate your audience. You also want to use consistent terminology and definitions throughout your data presentation. For example, if you use the term "revenue" in one slide, don't switch to "sales" or "income" in another slide. You also want to use plain and simple language that conveys your message without ambiguity or complexity. For example, instead of saying "the correlation coefficient between variable X and variable Y is 0.8", you could say "variable X and variable Y have a strong positive relationship".

4 Visualize your data

Another key aspect of showing the value of your data analysis is visualizing your data. You want to use charts, graphs, tables, maps, or other visual elements that help your audience understand and remember your data analysis. You also want to follow some basic principles of data visualization, such as: Choose the right type of chart for your data and your message. For example, use a line chart to show trends over time, a bar chart to compare categories, or a pie chart to show proportions. Use colors, shapes, sizes, labels, legends, and titles to enhance your charts and make them easy to read and interpret. Avoid clutter, noise, distortion, or misleading elements that may distract or confuse your audience. For example, don't use 3D effects, unnecessary gridlines, or inappropriate scales.

5 Tell a story

The final tip for showing the value of your data analysis is telling a story. You want to connect your data analysis to your audience's goals, challenges, or emotions. You also want to structure your data presentation in a logical and coherent way that guides your audience through your data analysis. For example, you could use the following framework: Start with a hook that captures your audience's attention and curiosity. For example, you could use a question, a quote, a statistic, or a anecdote. Then, introduce the problem or opportunity that your data analysis addresses. For example, you could use a statement, a scenario, a case study, or a goal. Next, explain the data sources, methods, and assumptions that you used for your data analysis. For example, you could use a diagram, a table, a code snippet, or a formula. After that, present the results and insights of your data analysis. For example, you could use a chart, a graph, a map, or a visual tool. Finally, end with a conclusion and a call to action that summarize your data analysis and suggest the next steps or recommendations. For example, you could use a bullet point, a slide, a video, or a interactive tool.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?