Deadly Graphics Errors
This is an explanatory slide taken from the U.S. Central Command planning for post-war Iraq (circa 2002.)
Apparently the DoD doesn't read much Edward Tufte.
This is sort of an object lesson in meaningless graphics: The entities on the side are shown exerting "pressure" on the areas in the center. How? What exactly is this trying to say? The arrows will "constrain" the divisions "somehow?" What is the purpose of the things floating in the center? Are "joint meetings" etc, part of the divisions to be pushed together? Are they a technique? (Which would imply being part of the arrows or borders, not in the center.)
A graphic that means something is invaluable. One that doesn't actually harms the whole enterprise by seeming to show more planning than is actually there.
It kind of serves as a window into the whole thought process . . . . .
Taken from Fiasco by Thomas Ricks
posted by KP | 26.9.07
1 Comments:
Honestly Ken, I think that graphic was probably made by some low level aid. I can hear the conversation now:
Someone important: You there! Aid, make me a graphic representing how we're gonna win in Iraq!
Aid: Damnit! I wanted to go drink this evening... alright... let me throw something together that shows that I did work and is good enough so that I don't get fired! Here you are sir!
Someone important: Awesome! Now I can show this at that damned meeting I have to go to and it should be good enough that I won't get fired!
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