Introduction

Numbers alone don’t tell you much. Turning data into a clear story helps people truly understand how a product is doing.

What's the Problem It Solves?

Many teams look at numbers without knowing what they really mean. They miss the full picture and make poor choices because they don’t connect the data points into a clear, meaningful story.

Quick Summary

Looking at numbers like daily users or open rates is helpful, but only if you understand the full story behind them. A product may seem healthy based on a few numbers, but digging deeper often reveals surprises. For example, an app may have 3 million daily users who only spend one minute in it, which could seem confusing until you realize they come because of daily notifications and quickly check one photo.

The article shows how to link different numbers together to form a story about a product’s real use. This process makes it easier to see what’s working, what’s not, and what actions to take. It’s not just about knowing the numbers, but knowing what they mean and what to do next.

Key Takeaways from the Article

• One number doesn’t tell the full story. You need context.
• Telling a story with data helps people understand and remember it better.
• Not all metrics matter equally-some are more useful for certain questions.
• Always check for problems or gaps in the story by looking at other numbers.
• Stories help explain the past, guide future decisions, and align teams.
• Don’t just throw out numbers-show what they mean and why they matter.
• A strong product story should lead to clear actions, not just reports.

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