Data visualization is the act of taking information (data) and placing it into a visual context, such as a map or graph. Data visualization makes big and small data easier for the human brain to understand. In addition, visualization also makes it easier for humans to detect patterns, trends, and deviations in data groups. Good data visualization must put meaning into complex data sets so that the message is clear and concise.
Visualization works from a human perspective because humans respond to and process visual data better than other types of data. In fact, the human brain processes images 60,000 times faster than text, and 90 percent of the information sent to the brain is visual. Because we are visual by nature, we can use these skills to improve data processing and organizational effectiveness.
The field of data visualization combines the art and science of data. While data visualization can be creative and fun to look at, it should also work in visual communication of data. Data visualization often uses elements of visual storytelling to communicate messages supported by data . There are many situations where you can present data visually. Data visualization can be used to:
- Make data interesting and easy to digest
Data visualization allows us to frame data differently by using illustrations, charts, descriptive text, and attractive designs. Visualization also allows us to group and organize data by categories and themes which can make it easier to break down into understandable parts.
- Identify trends and deviations in a data set
If you sift through the raw data manually, it may take us longer to notice patterns, trends or deviations. But by using data visualization tools like charts, you can sort through a lot of data quickly. Better yet, charts allow you to catch trends much more quickly than when you sort through numbers.
- Telling stories found in data
Data presented in the form of numbers only, tend not to evoke an emotional response. But data visualization can tell a story that gives data importance.
- Reinforce an argument or opinion
When it comes to convincing others that our opinion is right, that person often has to see it to believe it. An effective infographic or chart can make your argument stronger and strengthen your creativity.
- Highlight important parts of a data set
Data visualization is used to make it easier for readers to explore the data and draw their own conclusions. With data visualization, you can emphasize certain data so that readers can draw conclusions just from seeing the visual data that you provide.
Data visualization provides a fast and effective way to communicate information universally using visual information. These practices can also help businesses , for example in identifying which factors influence customer behavior; determine areas that need improvement or require more attention; make data easier to remember for stakeholders; understand when and where to place certain products; and predict sales volume.
Research conducted by Robert Horn at Stanford University shows the benefits of using visual aids to accompany verbal communication, namely:
- 64% of participants make decisions quickly after presentations using summary maps.
- The use of visual language has been shown to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of meetings, resulting in 24% shorter meetings.
- The visual language group experienced a 21% increase in reaching consensus compared to the non visual group.
- Visual and verbal communication combined increase credibility and influence rate by 43% compared to only 17% when verbal communication is used.
Advantages of Presenting Data Visually
The following are some of the advantages you will get when presenting your data visually:
- Ability to absorb information quickly, increase insight and make decisions faster.
- Increased understanding of the next steps to be taken to improve the organization.
- Improved ability to maintain audience interest with information they can understand.
- Easy distribution of information that increases the opportunity to share insights with everyone involved.
- Eliminates the need for data scientists as data is easier to access and understand.
Improved ability to act on findings quickly and therefore, achieve success with greater speed and fewer errors