Edward Tufte Short Course

Just back from attending this short course by the master of “intelligent design” himself Edward Tufte. It was well worth the time and effort! I’d recommend it to anyone who prepares or presents information with a computer (ie, just about everyone!). His insights are numerous and often challenge conventional wisdom. His bottom line is to enhance communication by increasing the dimensionality and resolution of data. The course included copies of all four of his major books, highlighting the most recent, Beautiful Evidence. The photo shows his discussion of Powerpoint’s role in the Columbia disaster, which I reviewed in 2005 and is included in Beautiful Evidence.

Update: Visit my Using PowerPoint Effectively resource page.

PowerPoint is Evil by Edward Tufte

This Wired Article sums up Tufte’s analysis…

“Slideware may help speakers outline their talks, but convenience for the speaker can be punishing to both content and audience.”

His Cognitive Style of PowerPoint essay costs $7 and is essential reading for anyone who wishes to avoid the mind numbing effects of this invasive tool. An excerpt, PowerPoint Does Rocket Science, is available online. Also visit Ask ET and his weblog.

Update: Visit my Using PowerPoint Effectively resource page.