Thursday, December 26, 2024

Florence Nightingale – Data Scientist or the Original Storyteller?

 Yes, we all heard of Florence NightingaleShe is the founder of modern nursingWhat is not well known is that she was also a statistician.   

And I can hear you yawningPlease allow me a few minutes.  

Ms. Nightingale returned from the Crimean War. She decided to explain to Queen Elizabeth the impact of conditions in warShe analyzed data, challenged the methodology, and finally used her own information.  

So how to present boring statsShe created charts still in use today. An example is the Rose Diagram.   

At this point I will point you to the excellent article by Lilly SmithHer piece is in Fast Company.   

Be sure to read it and you will enjoy the picturesThis article demonstrates the importance of data collection AND presentation. Her success clearly proves it Be sure to read the entire article and the last two paragraphs.   

In addition, you will see books by two other statisticians/data scientist/story tellers. They are Emma Willard and Etienne-Jules MareyHowever, the focus of the article in Ms. Nightingale.  

If you think these subjects are interesting, you will enjoy the article.  


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