I teach people all the time to always let the data tell its own story. I stress the need for true data objectivity – to make sure the interpretation is void of any subjectivity or preconceived notion. Don’t use visuals to overstate or misconstrue the message in the data. The data is enough. Period.

Some time ago, I was tempted to set this belief aside. Yes, even I was tempted. I wasn’t trying to misrepresent the analysis of the data to accomplish my own personal agenda or belief. I wasn’t scared that the consumer would be upset by the data requiring me to present facts but not the truth. In fact, I had no ill intention at all. Instead, I found myself in a scenario where the objectivity of the data itself was questioned and further analysis was requested simply to satisfy a political battle within an organization.

I found myself thinking of methods to assure that the objectivity of the data could not be questioned in any way possible – this included structuring the visuals to guarantee this outcome. And isn’t it ironic? Don’t you think? That I was considering using visual manipulation to ensure data objectivity. And yeah, I really do think.

After a few minutes of considering my options, the thought hit me, “If the data is what you think it is, then it will stand on its own. It is what it is. No one can change that.” This led me to continue deeper analysis with true objectivity. What did I find – even stronger proof from a different perspective I had not considered yet that clearly validated the original analysis of the data. I believe if I hadn’t been willing to stay objective, I might not have been willing to consider the alternative path that led to deeper analysis and the resulting discovery.

Every day remind yourself to let your data tell its story. This is where the value of analysis thrives. It will endure all manners of scrutiny and yield insights that provide value to better your organization. Let The Data Speak.