Noticed this on the New York Times homepage and was immediately intrigued because I recognized the name, Tufte:

There are two ways that I can go with this post.

I could write about how the information is laid out to be as accessible as possible. Seems a little unnecessary, though, as Tufte is an expert on the graphical presentation of data. Anything I had to add would be like trying to ice an already iced cake.

The other way I can go with this is to write about the approach of the ad itself, and the scarcity of information.

All we know about the type of service being offered is that it's about presenting data and information, or, apparently off topic, a sculpture show. There's no targeting to a specific sub-group — would a business person or a graphical designer be more interested? Also no explanation as to why it would even be worth the time to click on the ad, much less go to a course.

So how does this ad work?

Perhaps it relies on the strength of branding around Tufte's name. He's not trying to reach everyone, he's just trying to reach people who already know about him. Tufte's got enough reach that he doesn't need to stretch any further.

Alternatively, maybe he's relying on curiosity — it's a very unusual ad. Perhaps people click on it just to see where it goes.

Or perhaps it's a very poorly thought out ad which doesn't try to motivate anyone — just provides information.

It's the ad itself which is the solution &mdash the ad is a demonstration of what he has to share. Anyone who needs to know why they should come to hear him speak only needs to look at the ad.

Which I think is quite well done.