In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, the FP&A Guy, dives deep into the art of data storytelling with analytics expert Brent Dykes. With extensive experience in data visualization and analytics, Brent shares insights on how finance professionals can effectively communicate data insights. He emphasizes that data storytelling is more than visuals—it's about crafting a compelling narrative that bridges data and decision-making.

Brent Dykes is the founder of Analytics Hero, a consultancy dedicated to data storytelling. He's also an author and educator with years of experience in data analytics, consulting, and data visualization. Brent wrote the book Effective Data Storytelling and has taught data visualization at the University of Utah. His work focuses on enhancing how organizations use data to inform strategy and decisions.

Expect to Learn:

• The core components of data storytelling: data, narrative, and visuals.
• Why narrative is often the missing link in data-driven presentations.
• The role of empathy and audience understanding in effective communication.
• Practical steps for creating a data-driven culture within your organization.
• How human intuition complements data in decision-making processes.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "The last mile of analytics is where data storytelling lives. That’s where insights turn into action." - Brent Dykes
• "It’s the combination of data, narrative, and visuals that makes a message stick and drives action." - Brent Dykes
• "If you just present a problem without recommendations, you're leaving too much on the table. A story includes a path forward." - Brent Dykes

By explaining the science behind storytelling and offering practical advice, Brent Dykes underscores that empathy, clarity, and audience engagement are at the heart of effective data storytelling. FP&A professionals are encouraged to embrace this skill, not only to communicate data effectively but to foster a more data-driven culture in their organizations.

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Website - https://www.analyticshero.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdykes/

Book - https://www.effectivedatastorytelling.com/

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Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:37] - Introduction to the episode

[02:44] - The Importance of Clarity in FP&A

[09:02] - The Last Mile of Analytics

[11:25] - Defining Data Storytelling

[20:03] - Creating a Data-Driven Culture

[25:22] - The Psychology Behind Storytelling

[36:03] - Lessons Learned from Early Data Communication Mistakes

[42:36] - Getting Started with Data Storytelling

[52:13] - Closing Thoughts and Course Announcement