Information Visualization

Your constantly-updated definition of Information Visualization and collection of videos and articles
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What is Information Visualization?

Information visualization is the process of representing data in a visual and meaningful way so that a user can better understand it. Dashboards and scatter plots are common examples of information visualization. Via its depicting an overview and showing relevant connections, information visualization allows users to draw insights from abstract data in an efficient and effective manner.

Information visualization plays an important role in making data digestible and turning raw information into actionable insights. It draws from the fields of human-computer interaction, visual design, computer science, and cognitive science, among others. Examples include world map-style representations, line graphs, and 3-D virtual building or town plan designs.

The process of creating information visualization typically starts with understanding the information needs of the target user group. Qualitative research (e.g., user interviews) can reveal how, when, and where the visualization will be used. Taking these insights, a designer can determine which form of data organization is needed for achieving the users’ goals. Once information is organized in a way that helps users understand it better—and helps them apply it so as to reach their goals—visualization techniques are the next tools a designer brings out to use. Visual elements (e.g., maps and graphs) are created, along with appropriate labels, and visual parameters such as color, contrast, distance, and size are used to create an appropriate visual hierarchy and a visual path through the information.

Information visualization is becoming increasingly interactive, especially when used in a website or application. Being interactive allows for manipulation of the visualization by users, making it highly effective in catering to their needs. With interactive information visualization, users are able to view topics from different perspectives, and manipulate their visualizations of these until they reach the desired insights. This is especially useful if users require an explorative experience.

Questions related to Information Visualization

What are the different types of information visualization?

There are many types of information visualization. And different types cater to diverse needs. The most common forms include charts, graphs, diagrams, and maps. Charts, like bar graphs, succinctly display data trends. Diagrams, such as flowcharts, convey processes. Maps visually represent spatial information, enhancing geographical insights. 

Each type serves a unique purpose, offering a comprehensive toolkit for effective information representation.

What is the difference between information visualization and data visualization?

Information visualization and data visualization share a connection but diverge in scope. Data visualization centers on graphically representing raw data using charts or graphs. Information visualization extends beyond raw data, embracing a comprehensive array of contextual details and intricate datasets. It strives for a complete presentation, often employing interactivity to convey insights. 

Data visualization concentrates on visually representing data points. Conversely, information visualization adopts a holistic approach. It considers the context for deeper comprehension and decision-making. 

This video illustrates this concept using a routine example. It highlights the creative process and the importance of capturing and structuring ideas for effective communication.

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What is the difference between information visualization and infographics?

Information visualization and infographics play unique roles. Human memory is visual, often remembering images and patterns more than raw data. Information visualization capitalizes on this aspect. It simplifies complex data through graphics for better understanding. 

This article gives valuable insights into the properties of human memory and their significance for information visualization.

Infographics portray information in engaging formats, often for storytelling or marketing. Both use visuals, but information visualization prioritizes clarity for users and turning data into usable insights. However, the latter focuses on effective communication and engagement.

Is Information Design the same as data visualization?

No, Information Design and data visualization are distinctive in their objectives and applications. Information Design is a broader concept. It helps organize and present information to improve communication in the bigger picture. It considers the text, images, and layout to convey information effectively. 

On the other hand, data visualization translates raw data into graphical representations. It extracts meaningful insights and patterns. The approach focuses on visual elements to simplify the analysis of complex datasets.

What are the seven stages of information visualization?

Information visualization is a process that transforms complex data into easy-to-understand visuals. The seven stages include: 

  1. Data collection: Gathering relevant data from diverse sources to form the basis for visualization.

  2. Data analysis: Examining and processing the collected data to identify patterns, trends, and insights.

  3. Data pre-processing: Cleaning and organizing the data to make it suitable for visualization.

  4. Visual representation: Choosing appropriate visualization techniques to represent data accurately and effectively.

  5. Interaction design: Developing user-friendly interfaces that allow meaningful interaction with the visualized data.

  6. Interpretation: Enabling users to interpret and derive insights from the visualized information.

  7. Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of the visualization in conveying information and meeting objectives.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the data analysis process and explores key techniques for analysis. 

What are the benefits of information visualization?

Information visualization helps people understand data and make decisions. It turns complicated data into easy-to-understand visuals. This makes it easier to see patterns and get a good overall picture. It also helps people communicate by showing information in a visually exciting way. Visualizations empower individuals to interact with data, enhancing engagement and enabling deeper exploration. Additionally, visual representations facilitate easier retention and recall of information.

What are the cons of data visualization?

Data visualization has advantages and disadvantages. One big challenge is misinterpretation. The visualization of data can be misleading if presented inappropriately. It can also lead to false conclusions, especially for those who do not understand the information.

Another major problem is too much information, as this article explains: Information Overload, Why it Matters, and How to Combat It. A crowded or complex visualization can overwhelm users and make communicating difficult.

Also, making good visualizations takes time and skill. This can sometimes be challenging for newbies.

Is data visualization easy?

Data visualization is a powerful tool. Creating valuable and impactful visualizations requires a combination of skills. You must understand the data, choose suitable visualization methods, and tell a compelling story. All this requires a good understanding of data and design, as explained in this video.

Interpreting complex data and choosing compelling visualizations can be challenging for beginners. However, leveraging available resources and enhancing skills can simplify data visualization despite the occasional difficulty.

Where to learn more about information visualization?

Check out this course to learn more about Information Visualization. The course also explains the connection between the eye and the brain in creating images. It looks at the history of information visualization, how it has evolved, and common mistakes that you must avoid in visual perception.

It will teach you how to design compelling information visualizations and use various techniques for your projects.

Literature on Information Visualization

Here’s the entire UX literature on Information Visualization by the Interaction Design Foundation, collated in one place:

Learn more about Information Visualization

Take a deep dive into Information Visualization with our course Information Visualization .

Information visualization skills are in high demand, partly thanks to the rise in big data. Tech research giant Gartner Inc. observed that digital transformation has put data at the center of every organization. With the ever-increasing amount of information being gathered and analyzed, there’s an increasing need to present data in meaningful and understandable ways.

In fact, even if you are not involved in big data, information visualization will be able to help in your work processes as a designer. This is because many design processes—including conducting user interviews and analyzing user flows and sales funnels—involve the collation and presentation of information. Information visualization turns raw data into meaningful patterns, which will help you find actionable insights. From designing meaningful interfaces, to processing your own UX research, information visualization is an indispensable tool in your UX design kit.

This course is presented by Alan Dix, a former professor at Lancaster University in the UK. A world-renowned authority in the field of human-computer interaction, Alan is the author of the university-level textbook Human-Computer Interaction. “Information Visualization” is full of simple but practical lessons to guide your development in information visualization. We start with the basics of what information visualization is, including its history and necessity, and then walk you through the initial steps in creating your own information visualizations. While there’s plenty of theory here, we’ve got plenty of practice for you, too.

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