Maps are much more valuable than simply telling you where you are and where you are going.  They can be used as a decision tool; what is most economical path to get there? What destination should we choose? When you change this idea from a map to a graph, where position represents something other than longitude and latitude this can provide further meaning for you as a strategist directing your business.

The idea is called visualizing data.  I got this idea from article by Manav Tanneeru on today’s CNN “A New way of looking at the world” .  They also recommend a website by Ben Fry at benfry.com called Ben Fry (simple enough). 

The approach is to take advantage of the information in data that you might never use and present it in a way that addresses a question and allows you to draw a conclusion.  Evidently, there is a programming language called, “Processing” that allows you to explore and explain data. This can be researched in a book called, “Vizualizing Data” by Ben Fry.

The bottom line is that a map or smart graph can effectively communicate to people the direction they need to go … in business.  You can use this in your decision making, presentations, and daily communication to not only get the idea across, but to get it done.

By getting it done (and done right) your business will be more successful.

Check out Ben’s web site.  It is interesting.