The traditional methods of data representation, such as
pie-charts, histograms, graphs, bar graphs, tables etc, have not only become
boring and old fashioned but are also very unpleasant and unattractive to the
eye. People usually lose their focus and interest while studying such forms of data
representation. In order to keep the concentration intact and the focus
maintained, these conventional methods have now been replaced by visual
enhancements. The complex, multidimensional, intricate and static world of
information cannot be portrayed exceptionally on the usual graphs and charts.
Data visualization is a modern approach to store data in a beautiful,
sophisticated, elegant and well-designed form. There are so many interesting
and profound ways to visualize data that fascinates not only the eye but also
the mind and helps in better understanding of the data. The main purpose of
data visualization is to converse information evidently and effectively through
graphical means. Data visualization has become increasingly interactive today.
The most important things that data visualization should
possess are effectiveness, accuracy i.e. it should be sufficient for correct
quantitative evaluation, efficiency and it should be aesthetically pleasing. A
good graphical display of data helps in communicating the ideas with clarity,
precision and effectiveness. The simplest data chart can be made very
interesting if it is executed properly. Data visualization is about the
combination of visual as well as statistical thinking.
Graphic or visual representation of any information allows
a person to understand and process enormous amount of information quickly
because it is much easier to absorb any information that is in pictorial form.
Perhaps this is the reason why we remember most of the billboards we see on the
streets very easily but if the same thing is in written form it will be
difficult for us to remember it for a longer period of time. The graphic representations are used
where complex information needs to be explained quickly and clearly, such as in
signs, maps, journalism, technical writing, and education. They are also used
extensively as tools by computer scientists, mathematicians, and statisticians
to ease the process of developing and communicating conceptual information.
Data
visualization should not only be a beautiful graphic representation of
information but it should also contain information which is valid and has some
function. The balance between design and function should be fulfilled in a data
visualization chart. To create any set of data charts, the most important thing
to keep in mind is not only the accuracy but also the validity of the data. Any
simplest chart can be misleading in keeping this balance and if the chart is
visually very pleasant and appealing, the chances of this balance being lost is
the highest.
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