Data Storytelling Guidance
Author: NACCHO
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Data Storytelling Guidance
Creating a Data Story in Four Steps
This guide introduces NACCHO’s 4D Data Storytelling Framework, a structured process to help you move from raw analysis to meaningful communication:
Discover the Data Signal – Identify the "signal" or key takeaway that represents a meaningful shift in understanding, rather than just reporting noise.
Define the Audience – Tailor your message by exploring the specific beliefs, motivations, and level of influence.
Develop the Narrative Frame – Use a structured narrative arc (Character, Conflict, Resolution) to connect numbers to the human outcomes your audience cares about.
Design the Delivery – Use the decision tree to choose the right format, from a rapid newsletter blurb to a high-impact public facing product, based on your goals and the audience.
How LHDs Can Use This Resource
Whether you are a solo epidemiologist or part of a large communications team, this guide is designed to be flexible and practical:
As a Step-by-Step Process: If you’re new to storytelling, follow the worksheets to build your narrative from the ground up.
As a Partnership Tool: Use the "Who Should Be Involved" section to facilitate collaboration between data analysts, subject matter experts, and communications teams.
To Strengthen Messaging: Use the Step 3 worksheet to ensure your "Ask" is clear, actionable, and aligned with your audience’s priorities.
Program: Community Health, Communications, Research
Submitted Date: Mar 27, 2026 | Modified Date: Mar 27, 2026
Primary Toolkit: IPC Resource Library | Secondary Toolkit: Epidemiology Toolkit
Jurisdiction:
Institution Type: NACCHO,
Keywords: IPC Resource Library, Epidemiology, Health Promotion and Health Education, Infectious Disease, Research & Reports, Communications
