The modern internet world is awash with data like never before.

Self-confessed computer geek and journalist David McCandless has pioneered a new wave of understanding the masses of raw information out there. His graphic depictions of complex subjects - such as budget breakdowns and political leanings - are both beautiful to look at, but at the same time bear deeper investigation.

His packed talk at the Dome saw him introduce a few of his favourite graphics, including a few BBC News-style animated versions, and talk about their creation in a fascinating and absorbing presentation.

A self-deprecating speaker he also slipped in a few pieces of biographical information - from how he was ripped off by Flappy Bird to his teenage years as a Your Sinclair computer programming columnist.

His amazing graphics were displayed on a big screen - although it was occasionally frustrating when you couldn't read what was flashed up there. What could be seen was how they reflected both what is reported in the regular media and the reality revealed when you play around with the figures.

For example, it's no surprise that China has the biggest army - but when it comes to the number of soldiers per 100,000 people, North Korea knocks it into 124th place.

The message at the end of the talk was about getting involved, with McCandless encouraging his audience to play with data and see what it produces.