Data visualization uses statistical graphs, plots, information graphics and other tools to create visual representations of data. The goal is to summarise and communicate data clearly, precisely and efficiently so that it might promote new insights.
There are many types of visualizations and thousands of tools available and they range greatly in complexity (e.g. from bar graphs to heat maps, networks, 3D models etc) and specificity. Regardless, and to paraphrase Martin Schweitzer from the Australian Research Data Commons, the key question to ask is Is the visualization illuminating, useful, and does it have integrity?
(("3D data visualisation of the Pillars of Creation" by European Southern Observatory is licensed under CC BY 2.0.)
The issue with finding the right tool for data visualizations may be that we are spoiled for choice. There are literally thousands of existing proprietary and open source applications capable of delivering different kinds of data visualizations, and more are being developed every day. Bear in mind that many tools are open-source or free but they may lack longevity (see this blog post by Andy Tattersall for some good questions to ask before adopting a new research technology). It's always a good idea to see what data visualization tools are more commonly used in your research field -- certain kinds of tools may suit certain disciplinary areas better, and communities of practice may form which might help build knowledge of particular software applications.
Take a look at some of the popular tools and training resources listed here, and in the table below, as a starting point, and consult your colleagues for their recommendations. Keep in mind that data visualization tools are often used for exploratory data analysis and not just for displaying results. Some of these tools are designed to do both.
If you know about a great data visualization tool let us know and we'll include it here - or tell us if we've listed a dud! (But please be gentle -- researchdata@jcu.edu.au).
Some other story-telling/timeline tools:
Source: Mark Thomas, Duke University Libraries - Google Fusion Tables LibGuide
Martin Schweitzer from ANDS discusses the principles for designing good data visualizations and goes through examples of good and bad ones in this excellent webinar: Data visualisation - Design and principles (56 min.)
Martin refers to some classic texts on visualization design in his presentation. These and many others are available to JCU staff and students:
It can be instructive to look at examples of bad visualizations - to recognise one's own mistakes and to evaluate visualizations critically. We might consider this an important digital literacy skill, in an age of infographics, 'alternative facts' and fake news!
Okay and here's one good one. This visualization by Jer Thorp was commissioned by the publishers of Popular Science. It illustrates when different significant cultural and technical terms emerged, and shows their frequency and decline, over the magazine's 140 year history:
("Popular Science - Process" by blprnt_van [Jer Thorp] is licensed under CC BY 2.0.)
We acknowledge the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of the nation and acknowledge Traditional Owners of the lands where our staff and students, live, learn and work.