Behind the Scenes at MIT

Behind the Scenes at MIT

This image, submitted by J.C. Howard, is a visual representation of one part of the behind the scenes work which must occur in any MIT scientific endeavor.

Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, MIT Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences

J.C. Howard
Picower Institute for Learning and Memory
Data visualization

"Nearly anything one purchases for labs and centers—equipment or consumables—needs to begin with a requisition. This is a collage image that merely LISTS most of the external requisitions I have made over a couple of years, with any sensitive information redacted. Essentially, it is a visual representation of one part of the behind the scenes work which must occur in any MIT scientific endeavor. It is a very precise peek into some of the administrative, behind the scenes work done daily to get researchers connected to the equipment and supplies they need.  I think it is fun that from a distance it looks like scientific data, although it is only financial and administrative in nature, it’s subject matter is scientific equipment and supplies.

I love info-graphics and unique visual representations of abstract concepts. I’d like to think [this image] shines  a spotlight on MIT’s goal to value everyone in the community, from the people who empty the garbage to the Nobel Laureates, and also gives a tip of the hat to the goals of the WGSSI (Working Group For Support Staff Issues)."