Hello Friend 👋
Here are Seven Things I was thinking about this week:
Data Stories: If you handle data, don’t settle for showing numbers, but tell data stories instead. Nielsen Norman published a handy guide for “Turning Complex Data into Compelling Stories”.
AI for Good: UN Global Pulse offers a range of case studies, best practices, and tools relevant to disaster relief and other applications of machine learning for the public good.
Data Accessibility: The more complex elements on the web are, the less likely you’ll see them working in accessible ways. This is particularly true for data visualisations. Amy Cesal’s post on adding alt-text to charts offers a simple formula to change that.
Design Ethics: While we’re on the topic of doing things right, have a browse in the Design Ethically Toolkit.
Remote Working: Now that you’ve found your way around Zoom and Miro, have you considered upping your lifestyle and doing really remote work? Nomad List ranks locations by relevant factors such as wifi speeds and living costs.
Art: I loved the exhibition ‘Among the Trees’ (watch the video), even though I couldn’t help but think of Joni Mitchell’s Big Yellow Taxi:
“They took all the trees
Put them in a tree museum
And they charged all the people
A dollar and a half to see 'em”
There’s something dystopian about such beauty housed in the brutalist building that is the Hayward Gallery. If you can’t make it there between now and the end of October, grab a copy of one of my favourite books, In 80 Trees around the World, which is full of beautiful illustrations and nerdy trivia.Inspiring People: I’m a little late for this one, but I learned about John Willis, who is missing all arms and legs and participated in all Paralympic disciplines at the Rio games. “If I can do all of these sports, everyone can find one sport they love.”, he says.
Getting people moving is also the mission of national treasure Joe Wicks, who reached celebrity status with a family-friendly exercise programme during the lockdown. His appearance on Desert Island Discs was deeply touching and a great listen.
Thank you for being curious with me. 💌 Please consider forwarding this newsletter to a friend. ✍️ If you haven’t yet, you can subscribe here.
Disclaimer: Any opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of any current or previous employers.