The Essence of Data Visualization (Overview)

Data visualization is a process of converting unorganized data to a visual context which helps people to understand patterns, trends, and correlations of the collected data. The best practice, before starting data visualization, data must be gathered, organized, interpreted and then analyzed data to provide any meaningful value.

The main goal of data visualization is to communicate information clearly and efficiently via statistical graphics, plots and information graphics. Effective and clear visualization helps users analyze and reason about data and evidence. It makes complex data more accessible, understandable and usable.

“To convey ideas effectively, both aesthetic form and functionality need to go hand in hand, providing insights into a rather sparse and complex data set by communicating its key-aspects in a more intuitive way.”(1)

Fernanda Viegas and Martin M. Wattenberg have suggested that

"an ideal visualization should not only communicate clearly but stimulate viewer engagement and attention."

I have come across a very interesting Ted Talk which explains The beauty of data visualization for David McCandless. In his ted talk, He explains how information design can help us get through information glut on the Web and how simple charts can show patterns that we would never have seen otherwise.

Watch his TED Talk: The Beauty of Data Visualization

In the next post, I will explain the importance of data visualization, data visualization characteristics, and more.