Episode 30: Crime Data with Debra Piehl

Today’s episode explores a complex kind of data – crime data. We speak with veteran crime analyst Debra Piehl. We discuss how to help busy people who have important jobs to do take the time to get their data right, as well as how to manage limitations in messy, human-generated data when the stakes are high.

What You Can Do

1. Make sure to show the people generating critical data why those data are so important. Create a positive feedback loop by producing data reports and insights that are useful for them, not just leadership or other more removed parties.
2. Find ways to build confidence even when the data aren’t perfect. Measure the results of using data in meaningful ways, and don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.

Debra Piehl has decades of experience in crime analysis, from working for the New York City Police Department to her current carrier as an international crime and public safety consultant.

You can find her on LinkedIn.

Try It Now:

Do you know who collects the data you use, or would like to use? How hard is it for them to create that data? Are they aware of how the data will make a meaningful difference? If not, what could you do to share your work with their data?