Data Deluge

Edward Tufte describes 6 fundamental principles for analytical design. He states that they mirror the 6 principles of analytical thinking. In brief, the principles are:

1. Show comparisons, contrasts, differences.

2. Show causality, mechanism, explanation, systematic structure.

3. Show multivariate data; that is, show more than 2+ variables.

4. Completely integrate words, numbers, images, diagrams.
—The information doesn’t care what the mode of production is.
—Integrate all formats, completely.

5. Thoroughly describe the evidence.
—Provide a detailed title, indicate the authors and sponsors, document the data sources, show complete measurement scales, point out relevant issues.
—Don’t pre-specify data-sets, display. Ask, “how can we best understand [the information]”
—Apply Credibility principle. Document everything & tell people about it.

6. Analytical presentations ultimately stand or fall depending on:
—Quality
—Relevance
—Integrity of content