Title
Bad Data: Why We Measure the Wrong Things and Often Miss the Metrics That Matter,Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
Highlights the pitfalls of data analysis and emphasizes the importance of using the appropriate metrics before making key decisions.Big data is often touted as the key to understanding almost every aspect of contemporary life. This critique of 'information hubris' shows that even more important than data is finding the right metrics to evaluate it.The author, an expert in environmental design and city planning, examines the many ways in which we measure ourselves and our world. He dissects the metrics we apply to health, worker productivity, our children's education, the quality of our environment, the effectiveness of leaders, the dynamics of the economy, and the overall wellbeing of the planet. Among the areas where the wrong metrics have led to poor outcomes, he cites the feeforservice model of health care, corporate cultures that emphasize time spent on the job while overlooking key productivity measures, overreliance on standardized testing in education to the detriment of authentic learning, and a blinkered focus on carbon emissions, which underestimates the impact of industrial damage to our natural world. He also examines various communities and systems that have achieved better outcomes by adjusting the ways in which they measure data. The best results are attained by those that have learned not only what to measure and how to measure it, but what it all means. By highlighting the pitfalls inherent in data analysis, this illuminating book reminds us that not everything that can be counted really counts.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Bad Data'? A: 'Bad Data' critiques the common pitfalls in data analysis and emphasizes the necessity of selecting the right metrics to make informed decisions.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Bad Data' is Peter Schryvers, an expert in environmental design and city planning.
- Q: How does this book address the issue of big data? A: 'Bad Data' discusses how big data is often overvalued and highlights the importance of finding meaningful metrics to interpret data effectively.
- Q: What are some examples of metrics discussed in the book? A: The book examines metrics related to health care, education, environmental quality, and economic dynamics, showcasing how incorrect metrics can lead to poor outcomes.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: 'Bad Data' is available in hardcover binding, which offers durability and a professional appearance.
- Q: When was 'Bad Data' published? A: 'Bad Data' was published on January 10, 2020.
- Q: How many pages does 'Bad Data' contain? A: 'Bad Data' contains 352 pages, providing an in-depth exploration of its themes.
- Q: Is 'Bad Data' suitable for beginners in data analysis? A: Yes, 'Bad Data' is suitable for beginners as it highlights fundamental concepts and common mistakes in data analysis.
- Q: What can readers learn from this book? A: Readers can learn about the importance of selecting appropriate metrics and how to apply them effectively to various fields, leading to better decision-making.
- Q: What kind of readers would benefit from this book? A: 'Bad Data' is beneficial for professionals in data analysis, policy-making, education, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of metrics on decision-making.