storytelling with data: #5 the beauty of constraints
Mar 24, 2018
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The podcast discusses the benefits of imposing constraints in decision-making and work, including effective communication, data visualization, and overcoming space limitations. It also provides strategies for dealing with time constraints and emphasizes the importance of understanding tools and establishing a foundation of data visualization training.
Constraints can provide clarity and focus, helping shape decisions and work.
Self-imposed time constraints can be beneficial for effective communication during presentations.
Deep dives
The Value of Constraints
Constraints can be useful in shaping decisions and work. Without constraints, too many options can hinder progress. Constraints help provide clarity and focus.
Different Types of Constraints
There are external constraints imposed by others and internal constraints we impose on ourselves. Being smart about self-imposed constraints can help us deal with external constraints.
Strategies for Time Constraints
Self-imposing time constraints can be beneficial in dealing with limited presentation time. Strategies like the three-minute story and the big idea can help communicate key points effectively.
Tool and Space Constraints
Constraints related to tools can be false constraints as any tool can be used well. A blank piece of paper is a valuable tool to overcome tool constraints. Space constraints can be addressed through strategic use of color, words, and storyboarding.
We often complain about the constraints we face when communicating via a presentation: we don’t have enough time, we don’t have the right tools, we are only allowed a limited number of slides. In this episode, Cole discusses how constraints can actually be amazing and how imposing constraints intentionally on our work can better arm us to deal with those constraints that are less in our control. Cole also answers reader questions on strategies for upskilling data visualization across an organization, the best place to put monetary symbols, using different types of graphs together, and the use of color in data visualization.