Be careful of what you read into data

Today a story to remind us to be careful of what we read into data. It also serves as a reminder that “you cannot eliminate your biases” (an article I wrote some time ago on the topic of heuristics) and therefore how vitally important it is to develop strategies to “Avoid Groupthink” so that you don’t draw the wrong conclusions from data. BTW, if you do not already have DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) as one of your very top priorities for your business (and please be honest with yourself, is it a “must-have” or a “nice to have” for you at the moment?), then consider that diversity of thought is a key strategy to reduce business risk from drawing the wrong conclusions from your data. If you all look and sound the same, come from similar backgrounds, chances are you will think along the same lines and so your biases will prevent you from seeing what you cannot see.

So, let’s start with what you see in this picture that draws data from where damage from anti-aircraft fire occurred in fighter aircraft returning back to base after sorties in World War II.

What do you see? From that, what conclusions would you draw?

Now take a look at the story behind the picture, including the reference to yet another heuristic, “survivor bias”:

When data gives the wrong solution