Numbers Don’t Lie

In “Numbers Don’t Lie: 71 Things You Need to Know About the World,” Vaclav Smil seeks answers to questions such as; Is flying dangerous? What makes people happy? A book that will change your view of the world and its inhabitants.

Vaclav Smil is professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba, Canada. He has written more than 40 books on topics such as energy, environment, food production and supply, technical innovation, risk assessment and public governance. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and also Bill Gates’ favourite author.

Why This Book Stands Out

Smil’s multidisciplinary approach and critical thinking set this book apart. He doesn’t just present statistics — he explains their context, limitations, and implications. This makes the book a must-read not only for policymakers but also for software teams and tech leaders who rely on data for strategic decisions.

Rather than pushing ideology or over-simplified narratives, Smil invites readers to challenge assumptions and understand the real story behind the numbers.

The Power of Data in Storytelling

Each of the 71 chapters tackles a single question or theme, using real-world data to ground the analysis. Whether he’s discussing population growth, transportation safety, or happiness, Smil weaves statistics into stories that are both enlightening and highly readable.

Who should read Number’s Don’t Lie?

If you make decisions based on data — whether in product development, business strategy, or software architecture — this book will sharpen your thinking. It’s a reminder that data is most valuable when it’s interpreted thoughtfully and applied responsibly.

Examples That Will Surprise You

Smil’s topics are refreshingly diverse. He explores how much energy we really use, why GDP isn’t a great measure of happiness, and how air travel compares to other forms of risk. These chapters are short, sharp, and perfect for anyone looking to build better mental models in a complex world.

Each chapter can stand on its own, making it ideal for dipping in and out — or for sparking conversation in product or leadership meetings.

Relevance in Tech and Software Strategy

In the world of software development, clear thinking about how numbers don’t lie is essential. Whether you’re launching a new feature, scaling infrastructure, or prioritizing a roadmap — a data-informed mindset makes all the difference.

At GlobalOrange, we’ve seen the power of data in real-world projects like ZooEasy, where managing and structuring large datasets was key to success. Books like Smil’s offer the kind of critical thinking that keeps product teams grounded in what matters most.

How GlobalOrange Puts Data to Use

We believe data is a tool — not a crutch. In our projects, we help clients use data to validate decisions, prioritize features, and uncover the real needs of their users. When you work with us, you don’t just get a development team — you get a team that challenges assumptions and focuses on outcomes.

Not sure if your current approach is grounded in the right metrics? We offer a free second opinion to help you assess where your software or strategy might benefit from a more data-driven lens.