Half Stack Data Science S03E07 - The power of data storytelling - with Kat Greenbrook
Dec 19, 2023
In this engaging discussion, Kat Greenbrook, a data storyteller from Aotearoa, New Zealand, shares her journey from analytics to storytelling, driven by the desire to make data impactful. She highlights why communication skills are crucial yet often overlooked in analytics. Kat advocates for moving beyond pretty visuals to clear messages, emphasizing a structured storytelling process that includes understanding data limitations. She also touches on the evolving role of AI in storytelling and the importance of teaming technical experts with communicators for greater effect.
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Episode notes
Storytelling Solves Impact Gaps
- Kat shifted from modeling to storytelling after frustration that technical work produced no business impact.
- Data storytelling wraps context and meaning around insights so they drive action.
Bookwriting Over Client Work
- Kat deliberately declined new client work to finish her book this year.
- She balanced workshops and a focused writing period to complete The Data Storyteller's Handbook.
Hiring Overvalues Technical Skill
- Teams often hire purely for technical skill and neglect communication ability.
- Without communication, analytical effort wastes potential business impact.
