Data and information visualization: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 16:54, 11 August 2008

Revision as of 23:10, 11 August 2008

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== Overview ==

The main goal of data visualization is its ability to visualize data, communicatingcommunicate information clearly and effectiveltyeffectively. It doesn’t mean that data visualization needs to look boring to be functional or extremely sophisticated to look beautiful. To convey ideas effectively, both aesthetic form and functionality need to go hand in hand, providing insights into a rather sparse and complex data set by communicating its key-aspects in a more intuitive way. Yet designers often tend to discard the balance between design and function, creating gorgeous data visualizations which fail to serve its main purpose — communicate information.<ref> [http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2008/01/14/monday-inspiration-data-visualization-and-infographics/ "Data Visualization and Infographics"] in: ''Graphics'', Monday Inspiration, January 14th, 2008.</ref>

Data visualization is closely related to [[Information graphics]], [[Information visualization]], [[Scientific visualization]] and [[Statistical graphics]]. According to Frits Post (2003) data visualization is currently a very active and vital area of research, teaching and development. The term unites the established field of scientific visualization and the more recent field of information visualization.<ref name= "FHP02"/>