Data Visualization

At its core, data visualization is a tool that transforms data into actionable insight by using it to tell a story. Data-driven storytelling is a powerful force as it takes stats and metrics and puts them into context through a narrative that everyone inside or outside of an organization can grasp.

By asking what kind of story you want to tell with your data and what message you want to convey to your audience, designers will be able to choose the right data visualization tools for their project or initiative.

Understanding who your audience is will also help designers choose the right data visualization type. Designers should always put themselves in the user’s position. You may be aiming your data visualization efforts at a particular team within your organization, or you may be trying to communicate a set of trends or predictive insights to the risk management department. Designers should take the time to research their audience so that they can make a more informed decision on which data visualization chart types will make the most tangible connection with the users.