Beautiful charts and facts alone rarely change minds or inspire action.
Instead of making pretty charts, we work alongside our clients to understand how humans actually engage with information, grounding our approach in cognitive science and behavioral research. Think of us as translators between data and humans, with a particular fondness for evidence-based methods and a slight allergy to assumptions like "the general public will love this pie chart."
We believe strong opinions (loosely held) lead to better outcomes, and that the most effective design process starts with asking the hard questions.
No corporate jargon, no pointless charts. Just strategic creativity with a purpose.
The power of usable data to drive big ideas.
When information is accessible, meaningful, and actionable, it becomes a powerful force for change in a world drowning in information but starving for meaning.
We help mission-driven organizations cut through the noise and transform data from mere numbers into tools that actually move the needle.
Figures & Figures was founded by Gabrielle Mérite, a French-born information designer who traded lab coats for design tools. After working with organizations like the United Nations, Pentagram, and the RAND Corporation, Figures & Figures emerged from seeing untapped potential in how organizations use data.
Figures & Figures is a woman-owned business.
We're intentionally lean and adaptable. Figures & Figures has one full-time employee—our founder, Gabrielle—but scales from 3 to a dozen of specialists per project. This model allows us to assemble the perfect team of data analysts, designers, developers, and strategists for each unique challenge.
You'll see familiar faces across projects because we build lasting relationships with our collaborators, just like with our clients. This approach means you get precisely the expertise you need without paying for unnecessary overhead.
We're selective about our clients and partners. We do not work with fossil fuel, tobacco, gambling companies, nor with organizations involved in practices we consider harmful to human dignity and wellbeing, such as private prison operators, manufacturers of harmful chemicals, and groups working against fundamental freedoms.
The full list evolves as we learn, but our guiding principle remains constant: we work with those building a better world, not those standing in its way.
Beyond these hard lines, we trust our gut. We've walked away from projects that felt off, even when the money was good. We've also pushed back on questionable briefs, sometimes transforming a directionless request into meaningful work that made everyone proud. Our inbox isn't always full of perfect clients with perfect projects, but we're pretty good at finding the diamonds in the rough (or politely showing others the door).