Welcome to How to Inform the World
This newsletter is for change-makers and designers who know their data holds powerful insights but find themselves stuck in the gap between complex information and meaningful impact.
Every leader dreams of using data to drive real change. But most end up with either sleep-inducing dashboards or flashy visualizations that look great but say nothing - because turns out, throwing your data into Tableau doesn't automatically make it compelling (shocking, I know).
If this sounds familiar, you've probably tried generic data visualization tools and standard chart templates - but still haven't seen your data drive the change you seek.
Here's the thing:
Most organizations approach data visualization as either a technical exercise or a design challenge. They end up with:
confusing visualizations that don't connect
teams stuck in endless revision cycles of “maybe if we make it blue”
and ultimately data stories that fail to inspire action
More often than not, it ends up looking like that friend who overshares at parties - lots of information, not much impact.
But after years of helping organizations like the UN, World Bank, and 350.org transform their data into stories that drive change, we've discovered something: creating impact with data isn't about mastering every visualization technique or having the most sophisticated tools.
It's about understanding how to make information resonate with actual humans (yes, even the ones who say they hate numbers).
So, if you want to create data stories that move people to act - without sacrificing nuance or spending years becoming a visualization expert - you're in the right place.
Who are we?
We’re Figures & Figures, a data design studio.
When we’re not helping organizations transform their complex data into stories that drive change, you'll find us exploring how behavioral science can make our visualizations more compelling.
Our founder, Gabrielle Merite, started this newsletter because she saw too many powerful insights getting lost in poor visualization choices. What began as a way to share practical techniques has evolved into a deeper exploration of how we can use information design to create meaningful change - while keeping both our sanity and our standards intact.
Why subscribe?
Every couple of weeks, we'll share one piece that helps you transform complex data into stories that move people to act. No unnecessary complexity, no cookie-cutter solutions - just clear insights you can put to work.
No more "make it a bar chart”
No more wondering if your message is getting through
No more data stories that disappear into the void
Each issue combines practical visualization techniques with behavioral science insights. We'll explore everything from creating impact-driven guidelines to crafting campaigns that make people care about your cause.
You'll get:
Real case studies that show both successes and lessons learned
Strategic frameworks that make decision-making clearer
Resources for building data visualization and storytelling capabilities in your team
And occasionally, my strong opinions about pie charts
My goal is to make every edition worth your time. My promise is straightforward: practical guidance for creating impact with your data, based on real experience working with organizations like yours. Let's be honest - we all have enough unread newsletters in our inbox already.
Ready to transform your data into insights that drive change?
Subscribe now to join other impact-focused leaders and designers who are creating measurable change through better data storytelling.
