“Visualization gives you answers to questions you didn’t know you had.” – Ben Schneiderman.??
Visualizing data is a method of simplifying complicated texts into appealing visuals. But, at its core, it is an act of storytelling that helps you convey your message and reach a more significant segment of people. To ensure your message drives action, you need to navigate between text, technical information, and visuals, and here are some best practices for the same-??
- Define ‘why’- Before starting the visualization, inquire about your motivation by asking ‘why’. The question will help you understand the purpose of the task along with your audience, which will further empower you to create visuals that can urge your audience to take desired actions.??
- Make it simple- The idea behind data visualization is its aspect of simplicity. Do not get too fancy, be straight and simple and direct your thoughts into easy-to-digest compact forms.??
- Refrain from clutter- Data, in reality, is highly complex, which would push you to add a lot of information. Yet, it is essential to remember that it might be acceptable to cluster all the information, but cluttering will reduce the quality of your work.??
- Use complimentary colors- Visuals are aimed to be simple and eye-pleasing. Use colors that go well together and create the overall tone by considering your target audience's preference.??
- Know when to use charts- In Storytelling with Data, Knaflic has explained how bar charts are incredibly effective as the human eye compares the endpoints of each bar. In summation, when in doubt, always go for charts.?
Follow these tips and share them with your colleagues to help them engage their audience better!?
