How do you design a data visualization for print media?

2 Choose the right type and format

There are many types of data visualizations, such as charts, graphs, maps, diagrams, tables, and infographics. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the data and the story you want to tell. For print media, you need to choose a type that is appropriate for your purpose and audience, as well as for the available space and resolution. For example, if you want to show trends over time, a line chart might be a good option. If you want to compare proportions or percentages, a pie chart or a bar chart might work better. If you want to show geographic patterns, a map might be the best choice. You also need to consider the format of your data visualization, such as the orientation, the scale, the legend, the labels, and the annotations. Make sure they are clear, consistent, and readable.

3 Use color wisely

Color is one of the most powerful and expressive elements of data visualization. It can help you highlight, contrast, group, or differentiate data points, as well as create mood, emotion, and aesthetics. However, color can also be tricky and misleading, especially for print media. You need to be aware of the limitations and challenges of color printing, such as the cost, the quality, the accuracy, and the accessibility. For example, you need to avoid using too many colors, or colors that are too bright, too dark, or too similar. You also need to choose a color scheme that is suitable for your data and your message, such as sequential, diverging, or categorical. You also need to test your color choices on different devices and printers, and make sure they are legible and understandable for people with color vision deficiencies.

4 Balance simplicity and complexity

One of the main goals of data visualization is to simplify complex information and make it easier to comprehend. However, this does not mean that you should oversimplify or omit important details or nuances. You need to find a balance between simplicity and complexity, and avoid clutter, noise, or distortion. For print media, you need to be especially careful with the amount and the quality of the information you include in your data visualization. You need to prioritize and emphasize the most relevant and meaningful data points, and eliminate or minimize the unnecessary or redundant ones. You also need to use visual cues, such as size, shape, position, or texture, to help your readers navigate and interpret your data visualization.

5 Test and refine your data visualization

Finally, after you have designed your data visualization, you need to test and refine it before you print it. You need to check if your data visualization meets your purpose and audience, if it is accurate and truthful, if it is clear and consistent, if it is attractive and engaging, and if it is compatible and adaptable. You can test your data visualization by asking for feedback from other people, such as colleagues, friends, or potential readers. You can also test it by printing it on different paper sizes and qualities, and by viewing it from different distances and angles. Based on the results of your testing, you can make adjustments and improvements to your data visualization, until you are satisfied with the final product.