Data Visualization Literacy in the Social Sector

• Activity Number: 472
• Type: Invited
• Date/Time: Wednesday, August 12, 2015 : 8:30 AM to 10:20 AM
• Sponsor: Section on Statistical Graphics
• Author(s): Jake Porway*
• Companies: DataKind

Abstract

DataKind is a nonprofit that harnesses the power of data science in the service of humanity by bringing together teams of data scientists with social change organizations on projects addressing tough humanitarian challenges. With the many data visualization tools available, it's easier than ever before for people to visualize data and therefore more important than ever before to avoid common pitfalls when interpreting and presenting visualizations. In this session, Jake Porway, Founder and Executive Director of DataKind, will cover examples of visualization in the social sector and talk about the renewed need for visualization to be used for discovery and not just as an ends in and of itself. Lastly, we will discuss best practices around using or presenting visualizations in humanitarian contexts and ethical considerations for social sector organizations and data visualization experts moving forward.