How Do You Effectively Communicate Complex Data to Non-Technical Stakeholders?
Data Science Spotlight
How Do You Effectively Communicate Complex Data to Non-Technical Stakeholders?
Conveying intricate data insights to those without a technical background can be a daunting task. To demystify this process, we've gathered six pieces of advice from top professionals including Data Scientists and Product Managers. From using visual analytics and analogies to presenting cybersecurity in understandable terms, these experts offer their best strategies for effective communication.
- Use Visual Analytics and Analogies
- Translate Insights into Stakeholder Impacts
- Simplify Data with Practical Context
- Enhance Communication with Visualization Tools
- Convert Data into Engaging Narratives
- Present Cybersecurity in Understandable Terms
Use Visual Analytics and Analogies
In my role, I often need to convey data insights to non-technical clients. I believe visual analytics is crucial for effective communication in such cases. It's essential to explain the 'why' behind the data, avoid too much jargon, and keep the in-depth technical details for appendices.
Our goal is to facilitate understanding, not to create confusion. I like to use flowcharts, graphs, interactive maps, demos, and dashboards to keep things engaging and easy to understand. Analogies are also a big help because they allow people to relate to the situation in the simplest way. My advice for presenting data insights to non-technical audiences is to start by outlining the problem, explaining why it matters, providing a high-level overview of the data distribution and techniques, showcasing visualizations, examples, or demos, discussing any limitations, and being open to all types of questions.
Translate Insights into Stakeholder Impacts
Be sure to focus on 'what is in it for them?' In other words, think about what the data insight means to your non-technical stakeholders and frame the insight in their terms. Will there be a potential impact to the financials, business processes, or customer experience? Translating insights into impacts is a surefire way to build credibility with your non-technical audience.
Simplify Data with Practical Context
Simplify and contextualize your data insights. Avoid technical jargon and focus on what the data means in practical terms for your audience. Use visual aids like charts, infographics, and graphs to illustrate key points clearly. Begin with a concise summary of the main insights, explaining their relevance and impact on the business.
For example, instead of saying, "The conversion rate increased by 15% due to optimized algorithms," you could say, "Our recent website improvements have led to a 15% increase in customers completing purchases, boosting our overall sales."
Always relate the data back to business goals or outcomes that matter to your stakeholders. This approach ensures they grasp the significance without needing deep technical knowledge.
Enhance Communication with Visualization Tools
Utilizing visuals can significantly enhance the communication of complex data to non-technical stakeholders. Visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI can create clear and engaging charts, graphs, and dashboards. These tools help stakeholders understand the big picture and make informed decisions. Additionally, incorporating interactive elements within these tools allows stakeholders to explore the data further and interact directly with the dashboards.
Convert Data into Engaging Narratives
When conveying intricate data insights to stakeholders who are not technically inclined, concentrate on converting the facts into an engaging narrative. The ability to communicate complicated data findings to stakeholders who are not technical involves a blend of analytical skills, narrative skills, and straightforward communication. Put the insights within the context of their own objectives or concerns first. Instead of just providing raw data, emphasize actionable takeaways and highlight key aspects with relatable analogies and images. Make sure your message is clear and pertinent to their needs for making decisions by adjusting it to fit their interests and priorities.
To effectively deliver data insights, you must first understand your audience. What expectations and ambitions do they have? What is their preferred method of obtaining and using information? By answering these questions, you can adjust your presentation to their requirements and interests. A non-technical executive team may find that some stakeholders are more motivated by data and statistics, while others may be more swayed by anecdotes and real-world experiences. The key to this achievement was the data team's ability to distill intricate information into a gripping, useful story.
Present Cybersecurity in Understandable Terms
Our primary goal is to keep our clients' businesses protected. To achieve this, we often need to communicate complex information about cybersecurity threats. We understand that this information can be confusing, so we make it a point to present it in a way that our clients can easily understand.
Our approach is adaptable. We tailor reports to the client's level of understanding and make a point of using plain and simple everyday language.
We also offer dedicated support to each client, so all team members, regardless of which department they work in, are trained to provide explanations and guidance that are clear and understandable to laypeople.
By providing clear communication and guidance, we can help our clients make informed decisions about their cybersecurity and keep their businesses safe. Our commitment to this goal ensures our clients feel secure and protected.
