How do you use data to support your recommendations?

1 Know your purpose

Before you start collecting and analyzing data, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your recommendations. What problem are you trying to solve, what opportunity are you trying to seize, or what change are you trying to implement? How does your data relate to your purpose and your audience's needs and expectations? Having a clear purpose will help you select the most relevant and impactful data to support your recommendations.

3 Visualize your data

Data can be presented in many ways, such as tables, charts, graphs, maps, or infographics. The best way to visualize your data depends on the type, quantity, and complexity of your data, as well as the message you want to convey and the medium you are using. You should use visuals that are clear, simple, and consistent, and that highlight the main trends, patterns, or insights of your data. You should also use labels, titles, captions, and legends to explain your visuals and make them easy to understand. Visualizing your data will help you attract attention and engage your audience.

4 Explain your data

Data alone is not enough to support your recommendations. You need to explain what your data means, how it relates to your purpose, and what implications or conclusions it leads to. You should use clear and concise language, avoid jargon and technical terms, and use examples and stories to illustrate your points. You should also anticipate and address any questions, objections, or counterarguments that your audience might have. Explaining your data will help you persuade and inform your audience.

5 Connect your data

Data is not an isolated element of your communication. You need to connect your data to your recommendations and to your audience's values, emotions, and motivations. You should use transitions, summaries, and signposts to link your data to your main arguments and to guide your audience through your logic and structure. You should also use rhetorical devices, such as repetition, contrast, or analogy, to emphasize your key messages and to appeal to your audience's interests and concerns. Connecting your data will help you influence and inspire your audience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?