Archive for May, 2012

Data Art vs. Data Visualization: Why Does a Distinction Matter?

Friday, May 18th, 2012

Two distinct approaches to presenting data graphically exist today—data visualization and data art—and rarely do the twain meet. They differ in purpose and in design. When we fail to distinguish them from one another, we not only create confusion, but do great harm as well. There are as many definitions of data visualization as there […]

Information Technology and the Loss of Common Sense

Wednesday, May 16th, 2012

I have a low tolerance for stupidity and waste. For this reason, I oppose unnecessary bureaucracy whenever possible. For instance, when a potential client asks me to review and sign a lengthy contract before accepting their invitation to teach a course or speak at an event—typically a one to three day engagement—I tell them “No […]

Confusion in the Age of Data

Tuesday, May 1st, 2012

Contrary to popular opinion, we do not yet live in the Information Age. At best, we live in the Data Age—a time when bits of data constantly zoom past our eyes and buzz past our ears, yet few of them inform us meaningfully and usefully. We’re spending millions to put all of that “Big Data” […]