What is Information Visualization? A photo or a painting is a visualization, but the information provided by a photo is limited. Information visualization, on the other hand, is a process that combines quantitative or qualitative data with imagery to effectively communicate and highlight the patterns, trends and/or outliers on a given subject.

• Pattern - discernible regularity that occurs in data. • Trend - a general direction in which something is developing or changing in data. • Outlier - a person or thing situated away or detached from the main body or system.

Data can be analyzed and visualized in many forms. One of the most common forms of information visualization is an Information Graphic or “Infographic”. Infographics compile and transform large amounts of data and bring them to life through graphs, charts, maps, word clouds, context appropriate icons and/or illustrations, which educate the reader on a specific topic. All infographics cite the source of their data and most infographics include keys and/or explanations with insightful descriptions to enhance reader comprehension.

Information visualization reveals what you would otherwise be blind to when looking at a single data set on the World Wide Increase of PVC Consumption or a data point of a seal harmed by plastic waste.

A Little History: Why is Information Visualization Valuable?

1854, Dr. , Cholera Epidemic, Snow’s Dot Distribution Map on the areas of outbreak density determined that the Broad Street water pump was the source of the Cholera epidemic. The pump was replaced and the outbreak ended.

1857, Florence Nightingale, Causes of Mortality During the Crimean War Nightingale’s Coxcomb Chart showed that most deaths were caused from diseases contracted off the battlefield. Nightingale’s infographic allowed her to successfully petition Queen Victoria to improve sanitation conditions in military hospitals.

1861, Charles Minard, Napoleon’s March to Moscow Minard’s captured the 4 variables (travel direction, locations, man power and death from hunger, wounds and temperature) that lead to Napoleon’s downfall. This chart was studied by future military strategists.

What Does the Information Visualization Process Look Like?

Primary Research: the collection of original data through first hand accounts of personal research that includes: direct observation and documentation, interviews, questionnaires, experiments, beta testing, etc.

Secondary Research: the collection and synthesis of existing research through published books, websites, newspapers, statistics, databases, documentaries, etc.

Data Point: a discrete unit of information. In a general sense, any single fact that you collect is a data point. In a statistical or analytical context, a data point is usually derived from a measurement or fact and can be represented numerically and/or graphically. When you gather a series of related data points, you create a Data Set.

Meta Data: the information (who, what, when, where, why and how) about the collection process and contents of your data.

Metadata describes the creation of any data set, on any subject, stored in any data format. This often includes: 1) Who: Creator or author of the data, 2) What: the Means of creation of the data, 3) When: Time and date of creation, 4) Where: Location of the data’s creation, collection and/or storage, 5) Why: Purpose of the data and its use, 6) How: the Standards used in the collection of the data. (ex. The Library database contains metadata on each book: author, title, ISBN, Publisher…)

For example: if the t-shirt is the data point, the Meta Data would be the detailed information about the creation of the t-shirt:

Who: Design by Tom Bihn What: 100% Cotton fabric and thread When: Designed in August 2013 Where: Port Angeles, WA USA Why: Designed for Fall 2013 Fashion Week Collection How: This could detail the manufacturer, garment worker and sewing machine model, but would require further research.

What other information might we pull from this tag that could further inform us about this data point?

Database: a structure that holds and categories data points so they can be viewed as a whole or a Data Set and analyzed in various ways.

Data Set: A categorized collection of data that has been researched and organized around a theme or subject (ex. Monthly Dollar amount of Sales produced by each Regional Sales Rep). Data Sets allow the user to easily search, organize and compare data and spot trends occurring in data that would easily go unnoticed.

In addition, a data set is a snapshot in time that captures something that moves and changes. When data sets are combined, they form aggregates and statistical summaries that can tell you what to expect.

• Aggregates - a whole formed by several elements of compiled data. (Kayak.com, Google Shopping)

• Statistical Summaries - summarize a set of observations in order to communicate the largest amount of information as simply as possible. (New York Census, www.census.gov/regions/new_york/)

Data Visualization: A visual representation of Data or Data Sets in the form of graphs, charts, maps, word clouds, etc. which bring purpose to data by allowing the viewer to easily understand patterns, trends and connections in information.

How Do I Visually Represent the Data I Collect Through an Infographic?

1) Qualitative Data: Anything non-numerical, this can include both information and illustration. Ex: Lists or comparative lists, word clouds, narratives, values, timelines.

2) Quantitative Data: Information that involves a measurement of any kind, typically taking a numerical form.

What is the Formula for Successful Information Visualization?

Statistics (analysis) + Design Knowledge (aesthetics + illustration) = Good Visualization (storytelling)

The quality of an infographic is measured by three components:

• Build A Compelling Thesis What’s the point? There should always be a point to your infographic – a story you’re trying to tell, a message you’re bringing to life. First begin with a thesis. Then research, collect, edit and organize information that builds an argument to supports your thesis. With effective data and a good story, you’ve got a shot at a decent infographic.

In a business setting, this story should tie into your broader marketing message. Are you educating clients on the need for your product or service? Demonstrating your expertise and deep industry knowledge?

• Collect Effective and Credible Data The best infographics take otherwise complex data (excel spreadsheets) and simplifies it, allowing for faster comprehension and retention by the target audience. The data should provide meaningful, relatable information that offers value to its readers.

• Visually Irresistible Yet Appropriate Design People will form an opinion about the quality of the infographic, the information it represents, and the individual or company behind it in seconds. If you don’t take the design of your infographic seriously, then your viewer won’t view the information within your design and credible. The design elements should support the objective of your thesis in a creative, yet professional manner, while appealing to the target market, not the individual preferences of the designer.

What Make A Bad Infographic?