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The CaribData Storython

Data Storytelling for Multi-Sector Decision-Making

Background

CaribData is a multi-faceted innovative data management program focused on maximizing the under-utilized intrinsic value of the Caribbean region’s rich data resources.

A major part of CaribData’s broad spectrum data initiative is a focus on transforming complex datasets from across the Caribbean into accessible, impactful narratives. CaribData’s unique approach to blending complex data science with journalistic artistry and integrity is termed “data storytelling”.

The goal is to empower governments, institutions, and the public, to make better-informed decisions through interaction with the CaribData platform. By bridging the current gap between raw data and real-world insight, CaribData supports regional resilience, equity, and progressive adaptation, especially important in the advancing world of AI, and what is being called the “post-truth world”.

CaribData’s Storython is an innovative online event that proposes to embody the CaribData process by bringing together small teams to transform real-world raw data into powerful, tailored narratives. It builds on the traditional datathon format by requiring participants to go beyond straight-forward analysis, and extend their process to produce structured, multi-format stories, intended for real-world audiences. These stories must be grounded in factual data, optimized for a range of dissemination platforms, and tailored for specific users.

Purpose, Strategic Value, & Format

The Storython demonstrates how structured data can be turned into high-impact communication products. By asking teams to tailor truthful data-derived insights to different stakeholders, we highlight the relevance of data storytelling for decision-making across sectors. The event also informs the rapidly approaching necessity for a future where the governments, the private sector, and the public can rely on data-driven content to improve strategy, policy, and public understanding while maintaining integrity and ensuring the trust of their citizens, constituents, and clients.

The Storython, is currently being designed to accommodate teams of 2–4 participants. Each team will receive a curated dataset, and must identify core data “insights” from their dataset that they then use to create an “ancestor” story. The teams then work to create multiple “offspring” stories from their original ancestor story. They will be expected to produce three [3x] “client”-specific (client selected by team and can be Government, Company, or other organization) versions of the story. For each client story, they must deliver the story in three [3x] formats: a LinkedIn post, a newspaper article, and a YouTube video. Therefore, each team delivers 3x3 story versions to the judges.

Submitted stories are assessed using a proprietary scoring framework, called the “3C model” which is based on Contextual impact, Chronological timeliness, and Client-specific importance, where the value to the chosen clients can be financial, strategic, reputational, political, social, or cultural.

Timeline

The design, preparation, and execution of the Storython is at its earliest stage. Key activities include process development, logistics planning, data aspects, documentation, marketing, recruitment, scoring/judging, and post-event reporting and evaluation. There is also a necessity to build processes to ensure ethical and procedural standards are assessed by utilizing review protocols, and drafting support materials for participants. Current pre-event tasks include:

  • refining Storython briefing materials and ethical guidelines
  • datasets and metadata documentation requirements
  • researching partner platforms [outsourcing] and support tool testing
  • drafting participant FAQs and onboarding content
  • logistics coordination and file management
  • social media and event promotion

Key design decisions still to be made include:

  • event duration and schedule
  • dataset selection and structure
  • evaluation rubric weighting
  • judging panel composition
  • participant eligibility
  • recruitment process
  • prize structure and award criteria
  • platform selection for submissions and collaboration

Ethical Foundations

A key differentiator of the Storython is its emphasis on truthful, transparent storytelling. Each participating team must submit a clear explanation of their data use, disclose assumptions and limitations, and avoid speculative or misleading claims. CaribData must ensure these standards are communicated, followed, and evaluated fairly.

Possible External Partnerships

Depending on the scope of participation and the technical demands of the event, we may identify and engage a third-party partner to help deliver the Storython. This partner might assist with platform management, media production, or event facilitation.