How do you create effective data visualizations?

For data visualizations to be effective, there is a prerequisite of effective communication through thoughtful design and understanding of the audience. To create interesting visuals follow these steps:

Define The Purpose: Specify the story or insight that you intend to share. A defined objective will help direct your visualization and give meaning to it.

Know Your Audience: Modify your design to match with the knowledge your audience possess. Detailed charts might appeal to technical users while non-technical users will prefer the simplified versions.

Select the Right Chart Type:

• Use bar charts when making comparisons between different categories.
  
• Use line graphs in order to demonstrate how something changes over time.
  
• Use scatter plots in order to provide information on how two or more variables interact with each other.
  
• Avoid the use of pie charts unless focusing on a comparison of only a few categories.
  

Simplify and Focus: Despite details being necessary, include only the most relevant ones. Avoid overwhelming the visual by including too much information or irrelevant decoration.

Use Color Strategically:

• Differentiate the key points by applying contrasting color around them.
  
• Minimize the excessive use of colors in order to avoid confusing the audience.
  
• Use colorblind-friendly items whenever possible.
  

Label and Annotate:

When providing context, ensure that clear titles, labels and legends are added in order to avoid confusion.

Utilize notes in order to pinpoint valuable insights.

• Maintain Clarity: Ensure there are texts, lines or data points that are easily comprehensible, in such a way that the layout appears to be neat.
  
• Test and Refine: Offer your visual to everyone and get their opinions.