In the world of data analysis, finding meaningful connections within your data can transform how you understand and interact with the world. One of the most profound examples of this is the story of Dr. John Snow, whose pioneering use of data visualization in the 1854 cholera outbreak in London forever changed the course of public health.
> A famous use of data correlation which impacted the world. The Pump Map.
In 1854, Soho, London, was gripped by a terrifying cholera outbreak. The prevailing belief at the time was that the disease spread through "miasma" or bad air. However, John Snow, a physician with a different perspective, suspected that cholera was waterborne. To prove his hypothesis, he took a bold step that would lay the foundation for modern epidemiology.
Snow meticulously mapped the locations of cholera cases in Soho and found a stark concentration around a specific public water pump on Broad Street.
By plotting this data on a dot map—a precursor to what we now think of as a correlation chart—he was able to visualize the relationship between the water source and the spread of the disease. This simple yet powerful correlation led to the removal of the pump handle, effectively stopping the outbreak in its tracks.
~ Picture of John Snow
If you're interested in how to map correlation data like John Snow did, you can learn more about mapping historic datasets here.
John Snow's approach is more than just a historical anecdote; it's a testament to the power of data-driven insights. By identifying correlations that others overlooked, Snow not only solved a pressing public health crisis but also pioneered a method of data analysis that continues to save lives to this day.
In today’s world, the ability to find and act on correlations in data is more critical than ever. Whether you're managing a non-profit, leading an educational institution, or running a business, the data you collect is filled with potential insights—if you know where to look. Just as Snow did over a century ago, you can use correlation charts to uncover hidden relationships within your data, identify outliers, and make informed decisions that can drastically improve outcomes.
Think about your organization’s key performance indicators (KPIs). You track them monthly to gauge success, allocate resources, and set targets. But are you sure you're seeing the whole picture? Often, the real insights are hidden in the outliers—those data points that deviate from the norm. These outliers might seem insignificant, but they could be the key to optimizing your strategy and improving efficiency.
By integrating correlation charts into your analysis, you can visually explore the relationships between variables, identify trends, and most importantly, spot those outliers. This approach isn’t just about crunching numbers; it's about illuminating the unseen patterns in your data. With the right tools, you can refine your baselines, set more accurate targets, and save up to 80% of resources that might otherwise be wasted due to inefficiencies.
To help you get started, we’ve developed a free downloadable Excel template that makes it easy to create your own correlation charts. All you need to do is input data for two variables, and the template will automatically generate a scatter plot that highlights the correlations.
Below is a preview of how the template is set up:
| Stakeholder | Variable 1 | Variable 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Stakeholder 1 | 23 | 15 |
| Stakeholder 2 | 45 | 18 |
| Stakeholder 3 | 12 | 9 |
| Stakeholder 4 | 54 | 32 |
| Stakeholder 5 | 30 | 22 |
Here is an example of the correlation chart generated from the data:
~ Correlation data sets from this sample there are two outliers which should be investigated further.
This tool is designed for anyone who wants to make data-driven decisions—no advanced data skills required. Whether you’re new to data analysis or a seasoned expert, this template can help you unlock the potential hidden within your data.
John Snow’s work reminds us that sometimes, the most profound insights come from simple observations. By applying his pioneering approach to your own data, you can uncover the hidden correlations that have the power to transform your organization’s impact.
Needing a more complex correlation on larger datasets? Request a free demo here.