What Makes a Good chart?

Benefits

Data visualization can be extremely helpful in effectively communicating facts and ideas. While literacy and written explanations are important, visual data has been found to convey information more quickly and efficiently. Data represented through literacy will always be limited by the barriers of language. Visual data moves through that obstacle and allows information to be obtained by all, despite the language. In addition, visual data helps us see things that we normally would not be able to conceptualize. This can happen through the recognition of patterns, trends, and causes and effects.

Pitfalls

As for the negatives, visually presented data can sometimes lack in detail. For example, there may be a plethora of extraneous factors which contribute to a single data point. These factors will not be represented as well without written explanations. In addition, data visualization can at times prioritize estimates over accuracy. Misrepresentation of data can throw off an entire company project, plan, or message. Although it can be helpful, one should not solely rely on visual data to convey findings.

Title

First and foremost, a good chart needs to have a title. If there is no title or description for the chart, viewers may not be able to understand your data points at all, no matter how precise and clear they are.

Options

Once a title is established, one can then move on to deciding what chart makes the most sense for their given data. Depending on what is being studied, visual charts can vary drastically. Here are just a few to name:

• Pie Chart

• Bar Chart

• Scatter Plot

• Histogram

• Line Chart

• Line Graph

• Bubble Chart

• Venn Diagram

• Population Pyramid

• Point Map

So, let’s say I was studying a subject with a ton of data points. A scatter plot may then be most useful. However, if my subject had no data points and focused on percentages, then I would use a pie chart. Every study can benefit from one type of chart over another. It’s just about finding the right one.

Responsiveness

Whether through Statistics, Biology, or Marketing, I have seen and created my fair share of successful charts. In my experience, viewers tend to gravitate to the biggest data points first, and then move down to the smaller points. Responding to the biggest data points first makes sense, because visually it might take up more of the page or create an obvious spike that draws attention.

In addition, I am responsive to date that is clear and straightforward. When I encounter charts containing an abundance of information, I often get confused and frustrated. There are times when I find certain charts should even be split into multiple, to maintain clarity.

Final Comments

Creating effective data visualizations and crafting good charts are powerful tools for clear communication. These visual representations promote clarity and accuracy, enabling users to recognize patterns that lead to improvements. Through well-designed charts, graphics, and plots, individuals can gain valuable insights, make informed decisions, and ultimately drive positive outcomes in both their personal and professional lives.

Hi! My name is Kristin Ardese and I am a professional Graphic Designer and Marketing Strategist. I hope that by sharing some of my expertise, I can help offer valuable insights and build an engaging community.