Comments on: Data Visualization – Don’t Overcomplicate Charts & Graphs

By: Jon Peltier

Jon Peltier — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 22:15:46 +0000

By first image, do you mean the plain bar chart? Yes we agree. I found the second image rather effective despite the microscopic dots. Even lacking the ability to resolve the tiny orange dots, having one tiny red dot and a big arrow really hits you over the head. Adjusting the arrangement of dots in the two bars so each has a similar area would improve it.

By: Tony

Tony — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:30:55 +0000

Hi Parveen – welcome to the Support Analytics Blog and thank you for leaving a comment!

After further thought and input from you and Jon, I agree that the individual numbers are important to effectively communicate the full picture. I find it very difficult to see the small spheres and have no idea if there are 8000 of them. Honestly, at first glance, I didn’t even know there were dots in the left column. It looked like a texture that you can add to a chart.

I think showing the numbers: 1 in 8000 versus 1 in 76 = 130 times greater risk would be the way I would have gone. Thanks again!

By: Tony

Tony — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:24:11 +0000

Some good points Jon. I believe we agree that: 1) the first image is not really that effective conveying the message 2) My text doesn’t put the message into context to see the individual numbers and their magnitude. I think we also agree that there is an issue with the two columns not being the same size.

I feel my example takes it a step farther and puts some analysis on the individual numbers to take the reader where they may eventually want to go. I agree that the individual numbers are important and should be shown. If I was developing the presentation, I would forgo the graphic and show: 1 in 8000 versus 1 in 76 = 130 times greater risk. I would dress it up a bit, but you get the point.

By: Parveen Sharma

Parveen Sharma — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:58:31 +0000

I agree with Jon on conveying impact.
Well 130 times would be a high number, but I can’t make out how big it is until I have something in front of my eyes.
Previous chart somehow makes it obvious with not only number, but size of circles that give a visual impact of risk comparison being small in developed countries as compared to big in developing countries.

By: Jon Peltier

Jon Peltier — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:41:20 +0000

To tell you the truth, I prefer Jan’s approach, subject to your issue with the size of each block of circles. His chart shows me instantly that there is a huge difference in risk of maternal death between developing and developed countries. The visual impact is strong, and the labels help the reader fill in the background of this impression.

Your single data value shows me a piece of text, which I first have to convert from a picture of the numerals into a feel for that number. I then have to read the explanation, determine that this presents some kind of ratio or multiplier, then finally begin to understand it. Not as quick or intuitive as Jan’s graphic.