Visualizing Data & Effective Communication

This note explores three specific ways an analyst can use visualization. Section 1 considers visualization to explore data. Section 2 discusses visualization as a tool for developing a deeper understanding of trends and phenomena encoded in the data. Section 3 discusses the role visualization plays in communicating insights and compelling individuals to action. Here we argue that the most effective visualizations meet three criteria: they are (1) clear, (2) complete, and (3) information rich. Finally, Section 4 provides graphical guidelines for making effective visualization.