IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHAT WE WANT TO SHOW TO CHOOSE THE MOST APPROPRIATE GRAPHIC to best communicate our data.
Data visualisation is a powerful tool for communicating information clearly and effectively. However, one of the keys to correctly conveying what the data is saying lies in choosing the right chart. Selecting the right chart not only improves the understanding of the information, but also avoids misinterpretations that can lead to wrong conclusions.
In order to choose the right graph, it is essential to be clear about what kind of information you want to show. There are several categories of graphs, and each one responds to a different question or need: comparisons, distributions, parts of a whole, relationships, time trends, etc. In addition, there is another important element, and that is variety. There are experts who claim that a bar chart, a line chart and a dot chart can represent everything. However, if we only use these three types of graphs, we would lose an important element such as variety and dynamism in our formats, whether it is a presentation, a report, an infographic, etc.
Graphics catalogues: some indispensable resources
To help you in the task of selecting the most appropriate graphic, there are graphic catalogues that serve as visual and educational guides. Below, we explore some of the most prominent ones:
Data Viz Project (https://datavizproject.com/): This catalogue is one of the most comprehensive tools for those seeking inspiration and guidance on which chart to use. It presents a wide range of charts with examples.
Financial Times Visual Vocabulary (https://ft-interactive.github.io/visual-vocabulary/): This catalogue is notable for its focus on helping graphic designers choose the right visualisation for the message they want to communicate. It organises graphics into clear categories and provides examples of each.
Data Viz Catalogue (https://datavizcatalogue.com/index.html): This catalogue focuses on the functionality of each type of chart, allowing users to filter by function (compare, show distribution, etc.). It stands out for offering tools with which to generate the graphs, both to make them with code, in web apps, and with desktop programmes.
From Data to Viz (https://www.data-to-viz.com/): This resource is very useful because it not only presents graphs, but also offers an approach based on the type of question you want to answer with the data. Through an interactive flowchart, it guides users to the best charting option for their needs. It also offers tools with which to generate the charts.
Chartmaker Directory (https://chartmaker.visualisingdata.com/): What is remarkable about this catalogue is that it provides a list of tools and software to create each type of chart.
Using different charts helps us to communicate better, because each chart brings a different nuance to the visualisation and also enriches our formats by making them more attractive.