How do you combine data visualization tools with other platforms?

1 Use APIs and libraries

One of the most common and flexible ways to combine data visualization tools with other platforms is to use application programming interfaces (APIs) and libraries. APIs are sets of rules and protocols that allow different software components to communicate and exchange data. Libraries are collections of code and functions that provide specific functionality or features. For example, you can use APIs and libraries to embed data visualizations created with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Plotly into web applications, dashboards, or reports. You can also use APIs and libraries to customize, interact, and update your data visualizations dynamically.

3 Use JSON and SVG

A third way to combine data visualization tools with other platforms is to use JavaScript object notation (JSON) and scalable vector graphics (SVG). JSON and SVG are two formats that can store and display data and graphics in a web browser. JSON is a lightweight and human-readable format that can represent data as objects, arrays, or values. SVG is a vector-based format that can represent graphics as shapes, paths, or text. For example, you can use JSON and SVG to export data visualizations from tools like D3.js, Highcharts, or Google Charts as files or strings. You can also use JSON and SVG to import data visualizations into other platforms or tools that support these formats.

4 Use screenshots and PDFs

A fourth way to combine data visualization tools with other platforms is to use screenshots and portable document format (PDF) files. Screenshots and PDFs are simple and universal ways to capture and share data visualizations as images or documents. For example, you can use screenshots and PDFs to save data visualizations from any tool or platform as files or attachments. You can also use screenshots and PDFs to insert data visualizations into other platforms or tools that accept these formats, such as PowerPoint, Word, or Excel.

5 Use online platforms and services

A fifth way to combine data visualization tools with other platforms is to use online platforms and services. Online platforms and services are web-based applications that offer data visualization capabilities and features. For example, you can use online platforms and services like Datawrapper, Infogram, or Chartio to create, edit, and share data visualizations online. You can also use online platforms and services to integrate data visualizations with other platforms or tools that support web links, embed codes, or APIs.

6 Use best practices and standards

A sixth way to combine data visualization tools with other platforms is to use best practices and standards. Best practices and standards are guidelines and recommendations that help you create and combine data visualizations effectively and efficiently. For example, you can use best practices and standards to choose the right data visualization tool, format, and design for your purpose and audience. You can also use best practices and standards to ensure the quality, accuracy, and accessibility of your data visualizations.

7 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?