How Do I Create Data Visualizations?

Data visualization is an emergent interdisciplinary field that approaches the portrayal, analysis, and communication of abstract information graphically.  The onslaught of data has created a paradigm shift in how we interact with data.

Intersections of Visualization:  Below is a running list of categories that all fall under the shadow of Data Visualization. 

Research Visualizations

• Visual analytics:  Using visualization tools to find insights in a data set
• Scientific visualization:  Sharing found insights through statistical or visual analysis

Infographics

• Data visualizations created with some data to tell a story. These are usually published online for public use.

Business Intelligence

• Data visualizations that are presented as a group for assessment or data driven decision making by any institution or department

Geographic Information Systems

• A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information.

Anscombe's Quartet is a series of 4 tables that appear statistically similar however once graphed the differences between these four tables becomes obvious.  Data Visualization can be used to find new insights in your research data.