Making data mean more through storytelling | Ben Wellington | TEDxBroadway
TEDx Talks・14 minutes read
Ben Wellington, a data storyteller, uses his blog I QUANT NY to analyze NYC data, highlighting patterns like parking tickets for out-of-state plates. He demonstrates how data analysis can lead to real-world impact, such as resolving parking spot disputes, encouraging others to engage in data storytelling for advocacy and change.
Insights
- Ben Wellington's journey from accidental data storyteller to blending computer science and urban planning showcases the power of interdisciplinary work in creating impactful data stories that resonate with the public.
- The speaker's advocacy for open data accessibility and his ability to translate complex data into relatable narratives not only sparks interest in data analysis but also demonstrates the potential for individuals to drive change through data-driven insights, influencing policy decisions and city planning initiatives.
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Recent questions
How did Ben Wellington accidentally become a data storyteller?
By analyzing NYC data on his blog.
What inspired Ben Wellington to blend computer science and urban planning?
His marriage to an urban planner.
How did Mayor Bloomberg's Open Data Laws impact Ben Wellington's work?
Enabled access to government data for analysis.
What role did improv comedy play in Ben Wellington's data storytelling skills?
Enhanced his ability to connect with people's experiences.
How did Ben Wellington's analysis of parking tickets in NYC precincts lead to change?
Resulted in the repainting of a disputed parking spot.
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Summary
00:00
Data storyteller Ben Wellington's NYC journey.
- Ben Wellington, a data storyteller, shares his journey of accidentally becoming one and encourages others to explore this field.
- He works at Two Sigma, an investment and tech company, and is married to an urban planner, blending computer science and urban planning in his work.
- Mayor Bloomberg's Open Data Laws in NYC allowed public access to government data, leading to the creation of the NYC open data portal with over 1,200 datasets.
- Ben started a blog called I QUANT NY, where he analyzed data like cycling injuries in NYC, using QGIS software for mapping.
- His blog post on cycling injuries gained attention from media outlets like Gothamist and The Atlantic, sparking his interest in understanding why certain data stories spread.
- Ben credits his background in improv comedy for enhancing his data storytelling skills, emphasizing the importance of connecting with people's experiences.
- He simplifies complex data ideas, focusing on one concept like gender distribution among Citi Bike riders in NYC.
- Ben's analysis of parking tickets from out-of-state plates in NYC precincts revealed interesting patterns, such as Californians receiving tickets in hip Brooklyn neighborhoods.
- He stresses the significance of exploring familiar topics, like New York City, to effectively analyze and tell data stories.
- Ben's work on cab pickup and drop-off locations around Times Square showcases how data analysis can provide insights for advertising strategies and city planning, aiming to make an impact through his findings.
11:11
NYC Fire Hydrants: Revenue and Impact
- Fire hydrants in NYC have been mapped based on the parking ticket revenue they generate, with the top 250 culprits identified. Notably, two hydrants on the Lower East Side were found to generate $55,000 annually in tickets due to conflicting markings between the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the New York Police Department (NYPD).
- The speaker's analysis and reporting on the issue led to action from the city, resulting in the repainting of the disputed parking spot. This demonstrates the impact individuals can have by analyzing data and advocating for change.
- The speaker emphasizes the accessibility of data analysis, showcasing examples of students using simple tools like Excel to analyze accident data and graffiti complaints in NYC. This highlights that anyone can engage in data storytelling and make a difference.
