How can data visualization help you communicate environmental impact assessments for oil sands projects?

1 Why data visualization matters

Data visualization is the process of transforming data into graphical or pictorial forms, such as charts, maps, diagrams, or dashboards. It can be a powerful tool to help you communicate EIAs for oil sands projects by simplifying complex data and highlighting key trends, patterns, and insights. Data visualization can also emphasize the impacts and trade-offs of different project scenarios and alternatives, as well as engage your audience and invite them to explore your EIA data interactively. Additionally, it can support your EIA conclusions and recommendations with evidence and transparency.

2 What data visualization tools to use

There are many data visualization tools available for creating and sharing EIA visualizations. Microsoft Excel, Tableau, ArcGIS, and Power BI are some of the most popular and widely used options. Excel is a spreadsheet software that allows you to create basic charts and graphs from your EIA data, while Tableau enables you to create interactive dashboards and stories. ArcGIS is a geographic information system (GIS) software that allows you to create maps and spatial analyses from your EIA data. Power BI is a business intelligence software that integrates with Excel and ArcGIS to create dynamic and interactive reports and dashboards. Each tool has different features, functionalities, and costs, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your EIA needs, budget, and skills.

3 How to design effective data visualizations

Creating data visualizations for EIAs is not just about selecting the right tool, but also designing them in a way that communicates your message clearly and convincingly. To do this, you should first identify your audience and the purpose of the visualizations. Then, select the type of visualization that best conveys your EIA data and message, such as bar charts, pie charts, line charts, scatter plots, maps, or diagrams. Additionally, use colors, fonts, and labels that are consistent, legible, and meaningful. Provide context and explanation for your EIA visualizations with titles, captions, legends, annotations, or narratives. Also cite your data sources and methods and acknowledge any limitations or uncertainties in your EIA data. Finally, test and refine your visualizations by checking for accuracy, clarity, and relevance before you share them with your audience. Solicit feedback from peers, clients or stakeholders and make any necessary adjustments to improve your EIA visualizations.

4 How to share your data visualizations

Once you have created your data visualizations, you should share them in a way that maximizes their impact and accessibility. To do this for EIAs, you can embed your visualizations in the EIA report, making sure they are aligned with the text and easy to find. You can also publish them online on your own website or a third-party platform, ensuring they are responsive, secure, and compatible with different devices and browsers. In addition, you can present your visualizations in a meeting or webinar, either as slides or live demonstrations. Make sure they are visible, audible, and engaging for your audience and that you allow time for questions and discussions.

5 How to learn more about data visualization

Data visualization is an essential skill for environmental consultants, especially when communicating EIAs for oil sands projects. To learn more about data visualization, the Environmental Consulting Association of Canada (ECAC) offers a course that covers the basics, tools and techniques, and best practices of data visualization. The Data Visualization Catalogue provides a comprehensive list of different types of visualizations, their descriptions, functions, examples, and tools. Additionally, Storytelling with Data by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic is a book and blog that teaches how to use data visualization and storytelling to communicate effectively with data. Finally, the Data Visualization Society is a community of professionals and enthusiasts that offers chances for learning, networking, and collaboration.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?