

Steven Drucker
Partner Research Manager
About
Dr. Steven M. Drucker is a Partner and Research Manager of the Visualization and Interactive Data Analysis (VIDA) group at Microsoft Research (MSR), and an affiliate professor at the University of Washington Computer Science and Engineering Department (CSE). In his 30+ year career, he has published over 100 academic papers, and filed over 130 patents in topics ranging from graphics and interfaces to information visualization.
Common threads in Steven’s work are helping people discover meaning from their data, and developing methods for communicating those discoveries to other people. His analysis tools assist in both analytic and intuitive explorations of large datasets by revealing their underlying patterns and structures. His communication tools help people share their insights from this process in clear and enjoyable ways by leveraging storytelling and natural interaction techniques.
Another thread in Steven’s career is his continuing desire to bring his academic results to the…
Featured content

Visualizing Data and Other Big Ideas with Dr. Steven Drucker
Episode 5, December 20th, 2017 -In a wide-ranging interview, veteran Microsoft Researcher, Dr. Steven Drucker talks about his work in data visualization, the importance of clear communication in a world of complex algorithms and big data, and the long, slow work of big breakthroughs. He also offers some pro-tips to aspiring researchers, and tells us why stand-up comedy is an important skill for computer scientists.

Webinar: Data Visualization: Bridging the Gap Between Users and Information
With the explosion of data available today, finding effective ways for humans to interact with that data represents an enormous opportunity for researchers. At present, the ability to understand the nuances of visualizing data extends beyond simply interpreting data—we need to examine data from multiple perspectives to inform how we act on that data effectively. As tools to create data visualizations become more advanced, critical thinking about how to make and interpret these has greater implications for how messaging using data can impact our society. In this webinar led by Microsoft researcher Dr. Steven Drucker, Partner Research Manager and manager of the Visualization and Interactive Data Analysis (VIDA) Group, learn how information visualization provides an interactive bridge between the raw data and the human user. You will gain an understanding of basic theory behind the visual representation of datasets and explore the ways that psychology impacts our interpretations of visually represented data. Dr. Drucker also gives introductory-level demonstrations on powerful tools that can help you impactfully visualize data. Finally, gain insight into some of the pitfalls of misrepresenting data, including P-hacking and datamining. Together, you’ll explore: Foundational theory and psychology of data visualization Key high—and low—level processes including psychophysics and cognitive processing Examples of multiple visual representations of data, ranging from job growth to real estate values Open-source tools like SandDance, MorphCharts, and GAMUT that help clearly communicate data Dr. Steven M. Drucker has over 30 years of experience in computer research and development focusing on graphics, interfaces, and information visualization. Currently, he is a Partner and Research Manager of the Visualization and Interactive Data Analysis (VIDA) group at Microsoft Research (MSR) that focuses on a human-centric approach to working with data. He is also an affiliate professor at the University of Washington Computer Science and Engineering Department (UW-CSE). *This on-demand webinar features a previously recorded Q&A session and open captioning.