David Corliss uncovers how science is not enough. Data for Good needs directors just as much as data, advocates as well as algorithms, and socializing the work in addition to the science.
Datakind
Data for Good: The Year in Review
The year 2020 was a year of great changes and challenges. The Data for Good community was at the center of many storms in the past year, rising to the challenge to support communities, guide an economy through a sea of troubles, preserve the environment, fight for justice, and—perhaps as no year before—save lives.
A Conversation with DataKind’s Executive Director, Jake Porway
Porway and David Corliss discuss COVID-19, police violence, protests, inequailty, and opportunities for Data for Good projects to help solve big problems.
Getting Started in Data for Good
Pro bono—literally “for good”—service has become more common in statistics and data science in recent years. Often called “Data for Good,” this growing movement has been embraced by individuals, companies, and professional associations. A number of organizations have sprung up to design and manage statistical volunteering projects, recruiting volunteers and connecting them with projects and organizations that will benefit from analytic support.
Claudia Perlich
Claudia Perlich was born near Leipzig, East Germany. Her father—having worked on replicating the IBM 360—foresaw that computer-related skills would be in demand, so—on his advice—Claudia studied computer science. Today, she is an adjunct professor at NYU’s Stern School of Business and a senior data scientist at Two Sigma. Among the aspects of data science she appreciates most is the subtle skill of trying to find what she calls the “little quirks” in a data set. “It’s like doing detective work,” she says.
Being an Advocate for Data for Good: Solving the Identity Crisis
Davide Corliss offers ideas for telling others about Data 4 Good and promoting participation within our network of colleagues.
DataKind’s Vision Zero Traffic Models Save Lives
DataKind has grown rapidly to become a large, global organization making a great impact, with thousands of volunteers working on dozens of projects. With its own core professional staff in addition to many volunteers, DataKind offers opportunities for direct employment in Data for Good.
Data for Good—On the Job!
As Stats4Good explores different opportunities for Data for Good (D4G) projects, it is important to mention one avenue becoming more widespread today: statistical volunteering through work. This month, columnist David Corliss outlines ways statisticians can get involved.
Statistics Without Borders Partners with Statisticians for Society
The ASA’s outreach group Statistics Without Borders recently joined with the Royal Statistical Society’s Statisticians for Society, a new initiative to help statisticians volunteer their time and skills.