Better Data Visualizations: A Guide for Scholars, Researchers, and Wonks (2021), by Jonathan Schwabish (Senior Fellow at the Urban Institute and Founder of PolicyViz) provides a comprehensive introduction to data visualization that has something for everyone, whether you are just starting in data visualization or are a seasoned pro. Schwabish’s conversational style makes for easy[…]
Numbers enjoy an aura of objectivity and precision unwarranted by their origins. They are always products of human judgment, even the numbers that seem to spring from computers untouched by humans. Counting – How We Use Numbers to Decide What Matters (2020), by Deborah Stone (MIT Department of Urban Studies and Planning), examines the process[…]
Design for Information: An introduction to the histories, theories, and best practices behind effective information visualizations, was written by Isabel Meirelles in 2013. Meirelles, who is currently a Professor in the Faculty of Design at Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD) University in Toronto, Canada, wrote the book when she was at Northeastern University. […]
We are pleased to announce the election of two new members to our Board of Directors. Aleena Haidari and Alpha Diallo will join the board beginning in January 2021. “We are thrilled to have Aleena and Alpha join the Smart Cville Board. They bring a passion for serving the community, diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and[…]
Masking up during COVID-19 has been the responsible thing to do and a staple of the past year. Even with the availability of a vaccine, the virus will continue to be a presence. Wearing a mask makes a statement that you are looking out for your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. Masks also make a[…]
Calling Bullshit: The Art of Skepticism in a Data-Driven World, by Carl Bergstrom and Jevin West, delivers a thoughtful introduction to critical thinking for the serious reader. Its provocative title is clearly intended to attract readership. After all, how many people would pick up a book simply named for the subtitle, The Art of Skepticism[…]
The hiring process for an Executive Director of the Center for Civic Innovation has concluded. “We are thrilled to announce the hiring of Christie Taylor as our new executive director. After an extensive search, we chose Christie based on her background as a non-profit leader and an effective program manager. She will play a vital[…]
The Charlottesville area is home to many actively engaged civic innovators, one of these is Sean Tubbs. Sean has been bringing crucial information to the community for years. He agreed to answer a few questions for us to shed light on his current work and philosophy of civic innovation. Follow Sean on Twitter Visit Information[…]