What is Data Visualization?
Data visualization refers to the practice of transforming information/data into visual representations to simplify and communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
Designers strategically use colors, shapes, and symbols to bridge the gap between raw data and human understanding, empowering viewers to better interpret and analyze the information presented.
Key Words: Design; Design Principles; Elements of Art; Infographic; Photography; Semiotics; Visual Brainstorming; Visual Language; Visual Literacy
Why Does Data Visualization Matter?
Designers cater to visual learners by crafting data visualizations that facilitate quick interpretation and understanding. Designers utilize visual elements that often transcend language barriers, enabling universal comprehension and making information accessible globally. Designers facilitate enhanced decision-making by visualizing information, which enables people to grasp complex data sets and derive actionable insights efficiently.
Resources
- Information Is Beautiful’s Data Visualizations page presents brilliant data visualizations that make it easier for readers to make sense of facts and figures. Information is beautiful. (2023). COVID-19 coronavirus data dashboard. Informationisbeautiful.net. https://informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/covid-19-coronavirus-infographic-datapack/
- Lenger and Eppler’s Periodic Table of Data Visualization Methods includes examples of a far broader range of strategies for visualizing data. Visual Literacy. (n.d.). A periodical table of visualization methods. Visual-literacy.org. https://www.visual-literacy.org/periodic_table/periodic_table.html
- Review of Best Practices in Data Visualization
- Franconeri, L, Padilla L. M., Shah, P., Zacks, J . M., & Hullman, J. (2021). The science of visual data communication: What works. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 22(3), iii-161.
