Why Data Fluency?

It is the experience of Stephen, and all the other analysts toiling with data, that have animated our efforts over the years. We’ve seen the energy that gets poured into making sense of data—and all the waste as it gets obscured in reports, detailed analyses, and slide presentations that fall flat with their audiences. If the data were communicated differently, these analysts might move people to action, change minds, and shine light on important choices. If the value in data is to be unlocked, it takes better communication skills and an engaged audience.

In 2007, Professor Thomas Davenport wrote an influential book called Competing on Analytics: The New Science of Winning.¹ He stoked a smoldering ember into a flame by examining the power of analytics to improve organizations. The book catalyzed a generation of business leaders to look to find the value in their data.

Of course, we had quibbles when the book came out. In particular, Davenport advocates...