The Data Journalism Podcast Breaking New Ground with the Straits Times
Nov 14, 2025
Join Stephanie Adeline, Hannah Ong, and Charlene Chua from The Straits Times, who are shaping data journalism through innovative visual storytelling. They discuss how their team united journalism and design to tackle pressing issues like sea-level rise and climate change. The trio shares insights on using 3D visuals, collaboration across time zones, and the creative process behind impactful stories. They also offer valuable advice for aspiring data journalists on networking and embracing new skills.
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Trio Collaboration Sparks Creativity
- Charlene, Hannah and Stephanie describe themselves as a tightly knit trio who always collaborate on projects.
- Charlene calls Hannah and Steph her "other two brain cells" and says work is better when they do it together.
Small Core, Big Visual Impact
- The Straits Times built a strong data graphics unit from a tiny core and grew it by demonstrating value.
- 3D and spatial graphics became a signature as the team expanded and attracted specialists.
Scale By Mixing Specialists And Interns
- Hire diverse specialists (designers, devs, 3D, architecture, game design) to expand capabilities quickly.
- Use interns and contractors to scale output while attracting talent with distinctive projects.