Decoding Data

More than 300 people attended the recent Developing Data Analytics Capabilities Conference at the University of Georgia. The fourth annual conference, hosted by the UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government’s Georgia Data Innovation Hub, highlighted innovative practices and core skills for effective data governance, data strategy and data storytelling.

The event showcased keynotes, panel discussions and breakout sessions featuring expert practitioners from public and private organizations.

Keynote speakers shared examples of how data storytelling is used to inform decision-making, from weather forecasts to sports analytics, as well as data scientists’ vital roles in the process.

“We all have a responsibility to make sure we provide trustworthy data, act as data stewards, remain unbiased and provide credible information,” said keynote speaker Ann Carpenter, chief research and innovation officer with the Atlanta Regional Commission.

This year, attendees could choose from 10 pre-conference workshops on AI frameworks, human-centered design, change management and more. The conference offered three custom tracks - Leadership, Analyst and Technical. Sessions covered topics such as data visualization, best practices in data infrastructure, data dashboards and even GIS’s utility in disaster response.

“Today, more than ever, executives and leaders turn to data to inform and support decision-making,” said Rob Gordon, director of the UGA Institute of Government. “This conference is a great example of how the institute brings together subject matter experts, community and industry leaders, and government officials to exchange ideas, create new partnerships and develop specific solutions to help move people forward.”

MORE TO COME: The Institute of Government will post more stories and details from the Developing Data Analytics Capabilities Conference, including a feature on storytelling with weather data and updates on the Data Analytics Olympics and the Data Data Analysis and Decision Making for Government Certificate program, in the near future.