7 TED Talks that anyone working in Data Analytics should watch

We’re big fans of TED Talks. They can be an invaluable learning resource providing insight into a range of topics, not least of all, data and analytics. Below are some data-orientated TED talks offering a unique perspective on decision-making, data visualisations, sports analytics and open data.

The beauty of data visualisation

David McCandless discusses the unique insight data visualisations can provide.

“Visualising information, so that we can see the patterns and connections that matter and then designing that information so it makes more sense, or it tells a story, or allows us to focus only on the information, that’s important.” – David McCandless

The human insights missing from big data

Tricia Wang demystifies big data and identifies its pitfalls, suggesting that we focus instead on “thick data” – precious, unquantifiable insights from actual people – to make the right business decisions and thrive in the unknown.

The math behind basketball’s wildest moves

Rajiv Maheswaran and his colleagues are analysing the movements behind the key plays of the game to help coaches and players combine intuition with new data.

Why we make bad decisions

Dan Gilbert looks at why we’re quite bad at making decisions and considers how data might help.

How Open Data is changing international aid

Sanjay Pradhan of the World Bank Institute outlines the need for open data that is not just accessible, but comprehensive to those capable of delivering meaningful change.

“We need to radically open up development so knowledge flows in multiple directions inspiring practitioners, so aid becomes transparent, accountable and effective, so governments open up and citizens are engaged and empowered with reformers in government.” – Sanjay Pradham

For a more Open Government

Beth Noveck, former deputy CTO at the White House speaks about the opportunities open data presents towards creating a more effective and efficient system of government.

“When we start by teaching young people that we live, not in a passive, read-only society, but in a writable society, where we have the power to change our communities, to change our institutions, that’s when we begin to really put ourselves on the pathway towards this open government innovation, towards this open government movement, towards this open government revolution.” – Beth Noveck

What do we do with all this big data?

Susan Etlinger explains why, as we receive more and more data, we need to deepen our critical thinking skills.

“This is what happens when assessments and analytics overvalue one metric — in this case, verbal communication — and undervalue others, such as creative problem-solving.” – Susan Etlinger

What do you think of the selection? Share some of your TED favourites with us…