22-25 April 2026 
SQLBits 2022
Talk data to me: How to tell compelling stories to non-technical people
Over the last 10 years, and especially in the last two, the data landscape of businesses has fundamentally changed. Good data science and engineering can help commercial results explode, and deliver outstanding return on investment. However, it’s not always easy. If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes glaze over when you start a technical presentation, or you’re struggling to communicate the value of what you’re delivering, this session is for you.
Over the last 10 years, and especially in the last two, the data landscape of businesses has fundamentally changed. Data is – or soon will be – at the heart of every successful business. Good data science and engineering can help commercial results explode, and deliver outstanding return on investment.
However, it’s not always easy. Building internal consensus is hard. Selling the value of data to non-technical people is even harder. If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes glaze over when you start a technical presentation, or you’re struggling to communicate the value of what you’re delivering, this session is for you.
In this session, I’ll share my experience of bridging the communications gap between technology and commercial.
You’ll learn, with examples:
- How to talk about data projects in a way that doesn’t lead to glazed eyes
- A framework for understanding how your stakeholders think and what they care about
- Simple tips for reframing your impact and outputs into true business value
feedback link: https://sqlb.it/?7112
However, it’s not always easy. Building internal consensus is hard. Selling the value of data to non-technical people is even harder. If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes glaze over when you start a technical presentation, or you’re struggling to communicate the value of what you’re delivering, this session is for you.
In this session, I’ll share my experience of bridging the communications gap between technology and commercial.
You’ll learn, with examples:
- How to talk about data projects in a way that doesn’t lead to glazed eyes
- A framework for understanding how your stakeholders think and what they care about
- Simple tips for reframing your impact and outputs into true business value
feedback link: https://sqlb.it/?7112
Speakers
Sarah Francis's previous sessions
Being Brilliantly Bonkers: Neurodiversity, mental health, & inclusion
1 in 7 people are neurodivergent: our brains are wired differently and we experience the world in unusual ways. The same applies for many people with long term mental health challenges. In this session I'll share practical steps you can take to build an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, learn, and be their authentic selves
Maximising everyone's super powers - Panel discussion
In this panel we will discuss approaches with leaders in the field who have first hand experience of managing neurodiversity in the work place. Welcome questions from the audience as to how everyone can maximise their and their teams super powers
Talk data to me: How to tell compelling stories to non-technical people
Over the last 10 years, and especially in the last two, the data landscape of businesses has fundamentally changed. Good data science and engineering can help commercial results explode, and deliver outstanding return on investment. However, it’s not always easy. If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes glaze over when you start a technical presentation, or you’re struggling to communicate the value of what you’re delivering, this session is for you.