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barriers associated with traditional data presentation methods such as tables. Data storytelling also plays an important role by highlighting the meaning behind the numbers. This is where the true value exists and will resonate with project teams as they connect the dots between data, design, and project outcomes. Once data is presented in a user-friendly format, technology plays a critical role in facilitating access to the information. CULTIVATING DATA LITERACY. It’s not enough to simply increase access to data. Individuals must also understand how to interpret and apply these insights effectively in their decision-making processes. The first step is familiarizing staff with the types of data and data sources they encounter daily, often without realizing it. Data extends beyond just numbers and encompasses both quantitative and qualitative elements used by designers on a regular basis. Some of the best sources for quantitative data are programming documents, which detail the types, quantities, and sizes of spaces. This data is incredibly informative and valuable during client discussions about spatial requirements for different functions. As a firm that focuses on serving our communities, we collect substantial qualitative data. Posters full of sticky-notes from a community engagement event (figure 3) or responses from a questionnaire distributed to university students both yield incredibly valuable insights into what matters most to those for whom we are designing. These examples are great sources of qualitative data (figure 4) that our project teams use to inform design decisions. Starting with data types that architects and designers already use in everyday work helps them comfortably transition to more complex data processes. Layering on the data analysis process to data they are already familiar with will isolate the new content, more effectively educating them on how to collect, analyze, and communicate data. The next step is to expand these practices to additional data sources within the firm. There are endless opportunities for what we could be doing with data that I’m really excited about. As a data analyst, my goal is to help others recognize this potential and integrate data into their projects with a newly instilled confidence in their ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and apply data. Data democratization is data empowerment. Building designers’ confidence with data analysis will empower them to more consistently integrate it into the design process. Designers and architects are incredibly creative, and weaving in data-informed insights with their creative ideas can yield powerful results. Emily Gaines is a business analyst and strategist at Hanbury. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
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Figure 3: Post-it responses from an outreach event.
Figure 4: Quantifying qualitative data helps give it structure to extract key insights.
THE ZWEIG LETTER OCTOBER 7, 2024, ISSUE 1556
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