I am a huge fan of the New York Times graphics department. I think they do a great job of applying many of Tufte’s core principles to practical and innovative usage and, in my opinion, are leaps and bounds more forward-thinking and effective than any other major news outlet. They succeed in being concise, accurate, aesthetically intriguing, and in editing. I also like that the department, despite being called “Graphics”, employs not only visual artists, but statisticians and scientists as well. Here is an excellent recent Q&A with the Graphics Director, Steve Duenes. This interview also includes some examples of their best work.