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Data Visualization: Communicating Data and Complex Ideas Visually

Learn how the science of data visualization and the art of graphic design can help you communicate complex information more accurately and effectively.

June 3, 2024

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM ET

2 consecutive days

Registration Deadline

May 26, 2024

What You'll Learn

Whether you are pitching a new idea, persuading others to take action, building a strategy, or making a decision, data is key. But the amount of information available today is staggering, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by too many statistics, distracted by the wrong set of numbers, and confused by the complexity of data.

This program combines the science of data visualization with the art of graphic design to help you communicate complex information more accurately and effectively. By transforming data sets into visual graphics—such as charts, bar graphs, scatterplots, and heatmaps—you will learn to present complex data in ways your audience can better understand. Through hands-on exercises, you will explore the many types of data in use today, learn how people perceive different graphical displays, and create visual presentations that make a stronger impact on your audience.

Program Benefits

• Critically evaluate visualizations and suggest improvements and refinements
• Avoid creating misleading visual representations of data—and being misled by others
• Apply a structured design process to create effective visualizations
• Conceptualize ideas using sketching and prototyping
• Use principles of human perception and cognition in visualization design
• Communicate more precisely by pinpointing the most relevant information
• Learn how to tell data stories with visualizations
• Earn a Certificate of Participation from the Harvard Division of Continuing Education

Topics Covered

• Creating interactive visualizations using Tableau
• Conceptualizing ideas and interaction techniques using sketching
• Using the visualization design sprint process
• Evaluating strengths and weaknesses of visualization approaches for improvements
• Applying principles of effective visualizations to connect with your audience

Who Should Enroll

This program is ideal for professionals or managers in a wide range of disciplines with an interest in the visual presentation of data.

No programming experience or specific software experience is necessary.

Considering this program?

Send yourself the details.

Related Programs

• Foundations of Data-Driven Decision Making
• Digital Marketing Strategy
• Marketing Analytics Online Course: Strategies for Driving Business Results

June Schedule

• Effective Visualizations
• Sketch and Design
• Prototyping
• Storytelling

Hanspeter Pfister

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17 Data Visualization Techniques All Professionals Should Know

• 17 Sep 2019

There’s a growing demand for business analytics and data expertise in the workforce. But you don’t need to be a professional analyst to benefit from data-related skills.

Becoming skilled at common data visualization techniques can help you reap the rewards of data-driven decision-making , including increased confidence and potential cost savings. Learning how to effectively visualize data could be the first step toward using data analytics and data science to your advantage to add value to your organization.

Several data visualization techniques can help you become more effective in your role. Here are 17 essential data visualization techniques all professionals should know, as well as tips to help you effectively present your data.

Access your free e-book today.

What Is Data Visualization?

Data visualization is the process of creating graphical representations of information. This process helps the presenter communicate data in a way that’s easy for the viewer to interpret and draw conclusions.

There are many different techniques and tools you can leverage to visualize data, so you want to know which ones to use and when. Here are some of the most important data visualization techniques all professionals should know.

Data Visualization Techniques

The type of data visualization technique you leverage will vary based on the type of data you’re working with, in addition to the story you’re telling with your data .

Here are some important data visualization techniques to know:

• Gantt Chart
• Box and Whisker Plot
• Waterfall Chart
• Scatter Plot
• Pictogram Chart
• Highlight Table
• Bullet Graph
• Choropleth Map
• Network Diagram
• Correlation Matrices

1. Pie Chart

Pie charts are one of the most common and basic data visualization techniques, used across a wide range of applications. Pie charts are ideal for illustrating proportions, or part-to-whole comparisons.

Because pie charts are relatively simple and easy to read, they’re best suited for audiences who might be unfamiliar with the information or are only interested in the key takeaways. For viewers who require a more thorough explanation of the data, pie charts fall short in their ability to display complex information.

2. Bar Chart

The classic bar chart , or bar graph, is another common and easy-to-use method of data visualization. In this type of visualization, one axis of the chart shows the categories being compared, and the other, a measured value. The length of the bar indicates how each group measures according to the value.

One drawback is that labeling and clarity can become problematic when there are too many categories included. Like pie charts, they can also be too simple for more complex data sets.

3. Histogram

Unlike bar charts, histograms illustrate the distribution of data over a continuous interval or defined period. These visualizations are helpful in identifying where values are concentrated, as well as where there are gaps or unusual values.

Histograms are especially useful for showing the frequency of a particular occurrence. For instance, if you’d like to show how many clicks your website received each day over the last week, you can use a histogram. From this visualization, you can quickly determine which days your website saw the greatest and fewest number of clicks.

4. Gantt Chart

Gantt charts are particularly common in project management, as they’re useful in illustrating a project timeline or progression of tasks. In this type of chart, tasks to be performed are listed on the vertical axis and time intervals on the horizontal axis. Horizontal bars in the body of the chart represent the duration of each activity.

Utilizing Gantt charts to display timelines can be incredibly helpful, and enable team members to keep track of every aspect of a project. Even if you’re not a project management professional, familiarizing yourself with Gantt charts can help you stay organized.

5. Heat Map

A heat map is a type of visualization used to show differences in data through variations in color. These charts use color to communicate values in a way that makes it easy for the viewer to quickly identify trends. Having a clear legend is necessary in order for a user to successfully read and interpret a heatmap.

There are many possible applications of heat maps. For example, if you want to analyze which time of day a retail store makes the most sales, you can use a heat map that shows the day of the week on the vertical axis and time of day on the horizontal axis. Then, by shading in the matrix with colors that correspond to the number of sales at each time of day, you can identify trends in the data that allow you to determine the exact times your store experiences the most sales.

6. A Box and Whisker Plot

A box and whisker plot , or box plot, provides a visual summary of data through its quartiles. First, a box is drawn from the first quartile to the third of the data set. A line within the box represents the median. “Whiskers,” or lines, are then drawn extending from the box to the minimum (lower extreme) and maximum (upper extreme). Outliers are represented by individual points that are in-line with the whiskers.

This type of chart is helpful in quickly identifying whether or not the data is symmetrical or skewed, as well as providing a visual summary of the data set that can be easily interpreted.

7. Waterfall Chart

A waterfall chart is a visual representation that illustrates how a value changes as it’s influenced by different factors, such as time. The main goal of this chart is to show the viewer how a value has grown or declined over a defined period. For example, waterfall charts are popular for showing spending or earnings over time.

8. Area Chart

An area chart , or area graph, is a variation on a basic line graph in which the area underneath the line is shaded to represent the total value of each data point. When several data series must be compared on the same graph, stacked area charts are used.

This method of data visualization is useful for showing changes in one or more quantities over time, as well as showing how each quantity combines to make up the whole. Stacked area charts are effective in showing part-to-whole comparisons.

9. Scatter Plot

Another technique commonly used to display data is a scatter plot . A scatter plot displays data for two variables as represented by points plotted against the horizontal and vertical axis. This type of data visualization is useful in illustrating the relationships that exist between variables and can be used to identify trends or correlations in data.

Scatter plots are most effective for fairly large data sets, since it’s often easier to identify trends when there are more data points present. Additionally, the closer the data points are grouped together, the stronger the correlation or trend tends to be.

10. Pictogram Chart

Pictogram charts , or pictograph charts, are particularly useful for presenting simple data in a more visual and engaging way. These charts use icons to visualize data, with each icon representing a different value or category. For example, data about time might be represented by icons of clocks or watches. Each icon can correspond to either a single unit or a set number of units (for example, each icon represents 100 units).

In addition to making the data more engaging, pictogram charts are helpful in situations where language or cultural differences might be a barrier to the audience’s understanding of the data.

11. Timeline

Timelines are the most effective way to visualize a sequence of events in chronological order. They’re typically linear, with key events outlined along the axis. Timelines are used to communicate time-related information and display historical data.

Timelines allow you to highlight the most important events that occurred, or need to occur in the future, and make it easy for the viewer to identify any patterns appearing within the selected time period. While timelines are often relatively simple linear visualizations, they can be made more visually appealing by adding images, colors, fonts, and decorative shapes.

12. Highlight Table

A highlight table is a more engaging alternative to traditional tables. By highlighting cells in the table with color, you can make it easier for viewers to quickly spot trends and patterns in the data. These visualizations are useful for comparing categorical data.

Depending on the data visualization tool you’re using, you may be able to add conditional formatting rules to the table that automatically color cells that meet specified conditions. For instance, when using a highlight table to visualize a company’s sales data, you may color cells red if the sales data is below the goal, or green if sales were above the goal. Unlike a heat map, the colors in a highlight table are discrete and represent a single meaning or value.

13. Bullet Graph

A bullet graph is a variation of a bar graph that can act as an alternative to dashboard gauges to represent performance data. The main use for a bullet graph is to inform the viewer of how a business is performing in comparison to benchmarks that are in place for key business metrics.

In a bullet graph, the darker horizontal bar in the middle of the chart represents the actual value, while the vertical line represents a comparative value, or target. If the horizontal bar passes the vertical line, the target for that metric has been surpassed. Additionally, the segmented colored sections behind the horizontal bar represent range scores, such as “poor,” “fair,” or “good.”

14. Choropleth Maps

A choropleth map uses color, shading, and other patterns to visualize numerical values across geographic regions. These visualizations use a progression of color (or shading) on a spectrum to distinguish high values from low.

Choropleth maps allow viewers to see how a variable changes from one region to the next. A potential downside to this type of visualization is that the exact numerical values aren’t easily accessible because the colors represent a range of values. Some data visualization tools, however, allow you to add interactivity to your map so the exact values are accessible.

15. Word Cloud

A word cloud , or tag cloud, is a visual representation of text data in which the size of the word is proportional to its frequency. The more often a specific word appears in a dataset, the larger it appears in the visualization. In addition to size, words often appear bolder or follow a specific color scheme depending on their frequency.

Word clouds are often used on websites and blogs to identify significant keywords and compare differences in textual data between two sources. They are also useful when analyzing qualitative datasets, such as the specific words consumers used to describe a product.

16. Network Diagram

Network diagrams are a type of data visualization that represent relationships between qualitative data points. These visualizations are composed of nodes and links, also called edges. Nodes are singular data points that are connected to other nodes through edges, which show the relationship between multiple nodes.

There are many use cases for network diagrams, including depicting social networks, highlighting the relationships between employees at an organization, or visualizing product sales across geographic regions.

17. Correlation Matrix

A correlation matrix is a table that shows correlation coefficients between variables. Each cell represents the relationship between two variables, and a color scale is used to communicate whether the variables are correlated and to what extent.

Correlation matrices are useful to summarize and find patterns in large data sets. In business, a correlation matrix might be used to analyze how different data points about a specific product might be related, such as price, advertising spend, launch date, etc.

Other Data Visualization Options

While the examples listed above are some of the most commonly used techniques, there are many other ways you can visualize data to become a more effective communicator. Some other data visualization options include:

• Bubble clouds
• Circle views
• Dendrograms
• Dot distribution maps
• Open-high-low-close charts
• Polar areas
• Radial trees
• Ring Charts
• Sankey diagram
• Span charts
• Streamgraphs
• Wedge stack graphs
• Violin plots

Tips For Creating Effective Visualizations

Creating effective data visualizations requires more than just knowing how to choose the best technique for your needs. There are several considerations you should take into account to maximize your effectiveness when it comes to presenting data.

Related : What to Keep in Mind When Creating Data Visualizations in Excel

One of the most important steps is to evaluate your audience. For example, if you’re presenting financial data to a team that works in an unrelated department, you’ll want to choose a fairly simple illustration. On the other hand, if you’re presenting financial data to a team of finance experts, it’s likely you can safely include more complex information.

Another helpful tip is to avoid unnecessary distractions. Although visual elements like animation can be a great way to add interest, they can also distract from the key points the illustration is trying to convey and hinder the viewer’s ability to quickly understand the information.

Finally, be mindful of the colors you utilize, as well as your overall design. While it’s important that your graphs or charts are visually appealing, there are more practical reasons you might choose one color palette over another. For instance, using low contrast colors can make it difficult for your audience to discern differences between data points. Using colors that are too bold, however, can make the illustration overwhelming or distracting for the viewer.

Related : Bad Data Visualization: 5 Examples of Misleading Data

Visuals to Interpret and Share Information

No matter your role or title within an organization, data visualization is a skill that’s important for all professionals. Being able to effectively present complex data through easy-to-understand visual representations is invaluable when it comes to communicating information with members both inside and outside your business.

There’s no shortage in how data visualization can be applied in the real world. Data is playing an increasingly important role in the marketplace today, and data literacy is the first step in understanding how analytics can be used in business.

Are you interested in improving your analytical skills? Learn more about Business Analytics , our eight-week online course that can help you use data to generate insights and tackle business decisions.

This post was updated on January 20, 2022. It was originally published on September 17, 2019.

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How to Use Visual Communication: Definition, Examples, Templates

By Midori Nediger , Aug 27, 2020

With so many businesses and organizations now operating online, visual communication is more important than ever.

Whether you’re an executive looking to align your team on new organizational processes, or a marketer looking for ways to differentiate on social media, you may wonder how best to use visuals to really connect with your audience.

In this guide, I’ll give you some trade secrets from my experience as an information designer. I’ll show you how to leverage design and visual communications best practices to engage your audience while avoiding information overload.

Table of contents:

• What is visual communication?

What are some of the most common types of visual communication?

Why does visual communication matter, how to use visual communication in the workplace, how to make your visual communications look professional, what is visual communication visual communication defined:.

Visual communication is the practice of using visual elements to convey a message, inspire change, or evoke emotion. 

It’s one part communication design— crafting a message that educates, motivates, and engages,  and one part graphic design— using design principles to communicate that message so that it’s clear and eye-catching.

Effective visual communication should be equally appealing and informative.

Visual communication is really about picking the right elements (usually text, icons, shapes, imagery and data visualizations) to create meaning for your audience.  You can also communicate visually with video. For example, you can use a free screen recorder to show a colleague how to complete a task rather than sharing a document.

Some common visual communication strategies include:

• Using data visualization to show the impact of your work
• Using shapes and lines to outline relationships, processes, and flows
• Using symbols and icons to make information more memorable
• Using visuals and data to tell stories  
• Using color to indicate importance and draw attention

When you think about visual communication, your mind might first jump to design-heavy content like social media graphics or infographics .

And while visual communication certainly plays a role in those cases, there are a ton of other types of content that fall under the visual communication umbrella.

Some common types of visual communications in the workplace include:

• Process Diagrams
• Flow Charts
• Charts and Graphs
• Visual Reports
• Presentations

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These can look very different when used in different industries, but they all use the same visual communication strategies and design principles to accurately present information and create meaning for audiences.

Let’s take a look at some visual communication strategies used across different types of organizations.

Nonprofit organizations

Nonprofit organizations often combine data visualization and visual storytelling to gain the trust of their audiences and establish the credibility of their organization. 

This might take the form of a statistical infographic or an impact report that they share with their donors and supporters:

They may also create public-facing informational posters or brochures to build awareness around their organization and foster support for their cause. 

Another place where visual communication is key for larger nonprofits is to update stakeholders on campaign or research results. These reports often combine storytelling with data visualization to inform and convince. 

Healthcare organizations

A visual communication strategy often applied in healthcare is the use of plain language and simple iconography to communicate with audiences with lower health literacy. 

For example, a public health unit might create an infographic factsheet to ensure that recommended protocols are followed, like these recent COVID-19 guidelines from Public Health Ontario:

In fact, the CDC recommends the use of visuals to boost understanding of health information for external communications in healthcare.

These types of visual guides aren’t just helpful for external communication. Similar tactics can be used to remind staff of workplace best practices, like patient safety and infection prevention practices.

Learn more: Venngage for Healthcare Organizations

Business consulting organizations

Business development organizations may use diagrams like process maps to communicate high-level strategy to clients , which can help make their value more tangible.

A simple roadmap or summary of strategy recommendations can go a long way towards communicating and aligning with clients.

Visuals can help create understanding where words alone cannot. 

They can help bridge the gap between concepts and words, especially when appealing to an audience with diverse needs and backgrounds.

It’s clear that visual communication is top-of-mind for many. When we surveyed marketers about their use of visual content , 74% of the marketers we surveyed stated that more than 70% of their content contained some form of visual.

Plus, it’s been demonstrated time and time again that in addition to making information more engaging, visuals can actually help with the comprehension of information. 

But when should you consider making your content more visual?

You can use visual communication to:

• Engage your audience
• Communicate complex information
• Tell a story and convey emotion
• Simplify information
• Communicate the impact of your data

Let’s take a look at how this can apply in the workplace.

You might think that visual communication isn’t really necessary in your day-to-day work. 

But visuals, in the right hands, can be used as a tool to influence what your audience pays attention to, thinks about, and understands. 

1. How to make boring topics engaging

Creating engaging content that shows the value of your business can be a challenge when you work in a “boring” or technical industry like finance, business development, engineering or healthcare.

But it’s this kind of challenge where visual communication shines. Creating unique visuals can help you position yourself as the innovative solution in the market.

Here are some simple strategies to consider:

Use stylized icons to make technical information feel concrete and approachable

This infographic about credit card merchant processing, for example, takes advantage of a playful icon style and a modern design treatment to capture your attention and keep you reading.

This might be the perfect way to signal to young business owners that you’re different from the traditional big banks, and that you’re right for them. It feels so much more approachable than a wall of text on a web page.

Just applying some basic visual communication strategies can make this “boring” technical information a bit more accessible and relatable to your target audience —ready to boost engagement on social media, your blog, or your newsletter.

Use visual metaphors to get your audience thinking

Visual metaphors are another way to make old ideas feel fresh and exciting, and can even help foster deeper understanding of your subject matter.

The use of women running in the infographic below, for example, helps me think about NPS scores in a new way:

By allowing the visual presentation to drive how you position the value of your product or service, you can find new ways to reach your customers.

Read more: Common symbols and meanings and how to use them in design

To sum up, here are some visual communication tips for how to make boring topics engaging:

• Use visuals and icons to make technical information feel approachable
• Choose a graphic design style that will resonate with your target audience 
• Think outside of the box: use a unique visual presentation to get your audience thinking 

If your visual presentation is unique, your information doesn’t have to be revolutionary to give you an edge over your competitors.

Read more: Infographic ideas to make your information engaging.

2. How to communicate process changes and improvements

Being able to quickly re-align your team on process changes has never been more important. 

Visuals can make processes easier to understand and more memorable. They can also help boost employee alignment and engagement. 

Here’s how you can use process documentation to help align your team.

Show both high-level and low-level changes with hierarchical process diagrams

Breaking down processes into discrete visual steps can make new processes much easier to grasp.

And breaking down steps into even smaller sections can help you communicate both high-level concepts and specific details in the same place, like in this process diagram below.

Providing these process documents to employees can help quickly align teams on new strategies, like an action plan to address a crisis or a shift into a new market, while also acting as a reference point in the future.

• Provide presentation slides as a post-meeting reference guide 

With remote work becoming the norm, you likely spend many of your days in back-to-back Zoom calls. 

If you’re holding a meeting to discuss major process changes or company updates, it may be worth your while to whip up some quick meeting slides to help clarify changes and ensure your team is aligned.

Including a slide deck can help reinforce the importance of what’s discussed, and act as a reference when your team digs into their work.

Provide checklists to help your team keep track of complex processes

Providing a checklist of steps for your team to follow can help you delegate work with confidence, while giving your team the confidence to know that they’re doing things right.

Checklists are particularly helpful for communicating complex or proprietary internal processes, as they can help remove any anxiety from the process.

Build out a library of internal training documents that you can update periodically

Building out a library of training documents, while it might take a bit of time up front, can really save time and money in the long run, because a team that’s aligned is a team that’s productive.

Onboarding guides, FAQs for new employees (like the fun onboarding FAQs below), and other process documentation can all help make remote onboarding easier, and help new employees feel comfortable and in control.

HR onboarding checklists can help avoid the headache of overlooked paperwork and unclear expectations. Having one checklist for the employee and one for your HR department will help keep everyone aligned and on top of their tasks.

If you’re ramping up to hire a mass of new employees, it may even be worth rethinking the design of your offer letter . After your new employee signs, you can send on their package of matching onboarding documents.

And once you create those documents, they should be easy to update and disseminate to new and existing team members, making your job even easier.

To summarize, here are your tips for communicating process changes on the fly:

• Show high- and low-level changes with hierarchical process diagrams
• Help your team keep track of changes with checklists
• Build a library of internal training documents that you can update periodically

3. How to simplify complex information with visuals

Perhaps the most powerful use of visual communication is to simplify complex information. 

Just take this image that HubSpot posted on Twitter recently, for example. With one simple visual, they manage to position their product as the perfect solution to three problems experienced across three different teams:

This doesn’t just work for external communications on social media.

It can be the perfect approach for consultants looking to communicate their ideas and strategies to clients, in a quick and digestible way.

Or B2B organizations in technical fields looking to demystify the products and services they offer to differentiate from their competitors, without using a ton of technical language:

Or healthcare organizations looking to make recommendations clear to patients:

The four key steps for simplifying complex information with visuals are:

• Remove as much text as possible
• Use shapes like circles and rectangles to indicate groupings
• Use lines and borders to indicate flows and relationships
• Use color and size to draw attention to key information

Read More: How to Summarize Information Visually

4. How to visualize data and insights

Effective data visualization does more than just display some data from a spreadsheet.

It should communicate insights and capture ideas. It should communicate the why behind the trends.

It should help you answer the question often asked by busy people with competing demands: why should I care?

• Use the right chart for your data and your goal

The first thing to consider when visualizing data is what visual form will best communicate your insight.

At Venngage, we’ve developed the ICCOR method to help you choose the best charts for your infographic. The ICCOR method is a framework aimed to help you use a visualization type that aligns with your communication goal.

Your communication goal might be to: 

• Inform : convey a single important message or data point that doesn’t require much context to understand
• Compare : show similarities or differences among values or parts of a whole
• Show Change : visualize trends over time or space
• Organize : show groups, patterns, rank or order
• Reveal Relationships : show correlations among variables or values

Each of these different goals will be best communicated with a different type of chart.

For example, icons arrays (also called ‘pictograms’) have been shown to be more effective than bar or pie charts for communicating risk , which is particularly important for healthcare providers and public health workers who want to support good decision making in their patients.

Bar charts, on the other hand, are perfect for handling larger amounts of data and highlighting comparisons between sets of data, which might be more important for those working in finance:

For access to professional templates, and a simple editor to visualize financial information, check out: Venngage for Finance

For the full ICCOR framework, check out: How to choose the best types of charts for your data

Choosing a chart is just one part of the process. How do you actually make an impact with your data?

• Tell a story with your data to inspire your audience

A plain old bar graph won’t do much to inspire your audience. But a creative combination of charts, visuals, text, and statistics that tells a story can. 

By highlighting the right numbers and pulling in text and other visuals, you can show the impact of your organization in a more holistic way, and tell the story behind the data.

Storytelling with data is as much about crafting a narrative as it is about understanding and communicating the insights in your data. 

The first step to crafting your narrative is understanding your audience. Think about:

• What’s going on in their lives?
• What knowledge do they have on the subject?
• What context do they need from you?

Once you understand your audience, it should be easy to pull out the insights that will make an impact, and present them in an impactful way. That’s the difference between an engaging design and your standard Excel chart.

Another common practice in data storytelling is the use of icon stories to draw viewers in and make abstract ideas more concrete.

Take this report from UNICEF, for example. The simple, universal icons are combined in different ways to create and reinforce key ideas, creating an impactful report that will be memorable for readers.

• Call out key insights and action items in the data

The impact of your hard work can easily get lost in a monthly or quarterly report. 

But you can apply the design techniques typically used in infographics to make sure your efforts stand out of more traditional summative reports.

The trick is to do more with less. Get rid of data that doesn’t say anything, and emphasize the data that’s meaningful. Remove the noise to pull focus towards what’s useful.

Highlight key data points and add annotations to provide context to the most important data:

Here’s what to consider when visualizing your data and insights:

• Understand your audience and design with their knowledge in mind

Read more: Data visualization examples and best practices

If you’re not a full-time designer, one of your main concerns might be making sure your visual communications look professional. 

You want to make sure you’re producing content that elevates your brand, and inspires your colleagues, donors, and stakeholders.

Here’s what you should think about:

Establish a cohesive visual brand for any external communications

It’s critical for any growing business to establish cohesive visual branding. 

Especially for consumer-facing communications, like for your blog or social media, the quality of your visual brand signals to your customers about the quality of your organization.

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to ensure your branding feels consistent. Here’s how:

• Include the same header and footer with your logo across infographics, one-pagers, reports, and flyers
• Apply your brand fonts and colors consistently across all of your collateral
• Use the same style of symbols and icons across every document

As a shortcut, you can use Venngage’s Brand Kit to add your brand logos, fonts and colors to your designs with just a few clicks.

Read more: Don’t have your brand guidelines built out yet? Learn how to choose fonts and how to pick colors for designs, first.

Repurpose and reuse designs to keep your communications consistent

Reusing and repurposing existing designs can truly be a game changer.

For one, it’ll speed up your workflow. But more importantly, it’ll ensure that you’re producing communications that are consistent and cohesive.

Did I mention yet that your communications need to be cohesive?

You can repurpose the documents you’ve created for one client or project, add different content and tweak it a bit for a new client or a different target audience, to get a ton of mileage out of a small amount of design work.

Even if you’re just creating documents to share internally, like project summaries or company newsletters, you can set yourself and your team apart by producing documents that have a consistent visual style.

The recent rapid transition to remote work has propelled visual communication from a “nice-to-have” into an integral part of communication at work. 

I hope you’ve already started thinking about how you can use visuals to amplify your communications. 

Just remember to keep these design and visual communication principles in mind:

• Use modern design and visuals to make boring information engaging and differentiate yourself from your competitors
• Simplify your information to make an impact
• Use data visualization techniques to show the value of your work
• Create designs with a cohesive visual brand and reuse them to keep your communications consistent

For help getting started with visual communication and infographics, check out this guide: How to make an infographic in 5 steps .

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18 Types of Diagrams You Can Use to Visualize Data (Templates Included)

Have you ever found yourself stuck while trying to explain a complex concept to someone? Or struggling to put your idea into words?

This is where diagrams come in.

While simple text is best for highlighting figures or information, diagrams are handy for conveying complex ideas and loads of information without overwhelming your audience. They can visualize almost anything, from numerical data to qualitative relationships, making them versatile tools in numerous fields.

Whether you’re in the academe or enterprise setting, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the different types of diagrams with a brief explanation for each type, the best time to use a diagram type, and how you can use them to be a better visual storyteller and communicator. You’ll also find examples and templates for each type of diagram.

Let’s get on with it.

You can also follow along by creating a free account . Select a template to get started.

What exactly is a diagram? 

A diagram is a visual snapshot of information. Think of diagrams as visual representations of data or information that communicate a concept, idea, or process in a simplified and easily understandable way. You can also use them to illustrate relationships, hierarchies, cycles, or workflows. 

Diagrams aren’t just used to show quantitative data, such as sales earnings or satisfaction ratings with a diagram. They’re equally helpful if you want to share qualitative data. For example, a diagram could be used to illustrate the life cycle of a butterfly, showcasing each transformation stage. 

Now, let’s jump into the various types of diagrams, ranging from simple flow charts to the more complex Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagrams.

18 diagram types and when to use each type 

Whether you’re doing data analysis or need a simple visual representation of data, there is a wide array of diagrams at your fingertips. If you’re having a hard time choosing the right diagram for your data visualization needs, use the list below as a quick guide. 

1. Flowchart 

A flowchart is a type of diagram that acts as a roadmap for a process or workflow. It uses shapes and arrows to guide you through each step, making complex procedures simple to understand.

Flowcharts are best for : Simplifying complex processes into understandable stages, making it easier for your readers to follow along and see the ‘big picture”. 

2. Line graph

Line graphs , sometimes called line charts, visualizes numerical data points connected by straight lines. In a line graph or line chart, data points representing different time periods are plotted and connected by a line. This helps with easy visualization of trends and patterns.

Line graphs are best for: Representing the change of one or more quantities over time, making them excellent for tracking the progression of data points.

3. Bar chart 

A bar chart , often interchangeable with bar graphs, is a type of diagram used primarily to display and compare data. For this diagram type, rectangular bars of varying lengths represent data of different categories or groups. Each bar represents a category, and the length or height of the bar corresponds to the numeric data or quantity.

Variations of bar charts include stacked bar charts, grouped bar charts, and horizontal bar charts. 

Bar charts are best for : Comparing the frequency, count, or other measures (such as average) for different categories or groups. A bar chart is particularly useful if you want to display data sets that can be grouped into categories.

4. Circle diagram or pie chart

A pie chart is a circular diagram that represents data in slices. Each slice of the pie chart represents a different category and its proportion to the whole.

Pie charts are best for: Displaying categorical data where you want to highlight each category’s percentage of the total.

5.Venn diagrams

A Venn diagram compares the differences and similarities of groups of things. As a diagram based on overlapping circles, each circle in a Venn diagram represents a different set, and their overlap represents the intersection of the data sets. 

Venn diagrams are best for : Visualizing the relationships between different groups of things. They are helpful when you want to show areas of overlap between elements. A good example is if you want to compare the features of different products or two overlapping concepts, like in the Ikigai Venn diagram template below. Easily create your Venn diagram with Piktochart’s online Venn diagram maker .

6. Tree diagrams

A tree diagram is a diagram that starts with one central idea and expands with branching lines to show multiple paths, all possible outcomes, decisions, or steps. Each ‘branch’ represents a possible outcome or decision in a tree diagram, moving from left to right. Tree diagrams are best for : Representing hierarchy like organizational roles, evolutionary relationships, or possible outcomes of events like when a company launches a product. 

7. Organizational chart 

Organizational charts are diagrams used to display the structure of an organization. In an organizational chart, each box or node represents a different role or department, and lines connecting the boxes illustrate the lines of authority, communication, and responsibility. The chart typically starts with the highest-ranking individual or body (like a CEO or Board of Directors) at the top and branches downwards to various levels of management and individual employees.

Organizational charts are best for : Showing relationships between different members and departments in a company or organization. 

8. Gantt charts 

Gantt charts are typically used in project management to represent the timeline of a project. They consist of horizontal bars, with each bar representing a task or activity.

For this type of diagram, each chart is represented by a horizontal bar spanning from its start date to its end date. The length of the bar corresponds to the duration of the task. Tasks are listed vertically, often in the order they need to be completed. In some projects, tasks are grouped under larger, overarching activities or phases.

Gantt charts are best for : Projects where you need to manage multiple tasks that occur over time, often in a specific sequence, and may depend on each other.

9. Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagram

Software engineers use Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagrams to create standardized diagrams that illustrate the building blocks of a software system.

UML diagrams, such as class diagrams, sequence diagrams, and state diagrams, provide different perspectives on complex systems. Class diagrams depict a system’s static structure, displaying classes, attributes, and relationships. Meanwhile, sequence diagrams illustrate interactions and communication between system entities, providing insight into system functionality. 

UML diagrams are best for : Visualizing a software system’s architecture in software engineering.

10. SWOT analysis diagrams 

A SWOT analysis diagram is used in business strategy for evaluating internal and external factors affecting the organization. The acronym stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. Each category is represented in a quadrant chart, providing a comprehensive view of the business landscape.

SWOT diagrams are best for : Strategic planning and decision-making. They represent data that can help identify areas of competitive advantage and inform strategy development.

Piktochart offers professionally-designed templates to create diagrams , reports , presentations , brochures , and more. Sign up for a free account today to create impressive visuals within minutes.

11. Fishbone diagram 

Fishbone diagrams, sometimes called cause-and-effect diagrams,  are used to represent the causes of a problem. They consist of a central idea, with different diagrams or branches representing the factors contributing to the problem.

Fishbone diagrams are best for : Brainstorming and problem-solving sessions.

12. Funnel chart

A funnel chart is a type of diagram used to represent stages or progress. In a funnel chart, each stage is represented by a horizontal bar, and the length of the bar corresponds to the quantity or value at that stage. The chart is widest at the top, where the quantity or value is greatest, and narrows down to represent the decrease at each subsequent stage.

Funnel charts are best for: Visual representation of the sales pipeline or data visualization of how a broad market is narrowed down into potential leads and a select group of customers.

13. SIPOC diagrams

A SIPOC diagram is used in process improvement to represent the different components of a process. The acronym stands for Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, and Customers.

SIPOC diagrams are best for: Providing a high-level view of a process which helps visualize the sequence of events and their interconnections.

14. Swimlane diagrams

Swimlane diagrams are best for mapping out complex processes that involve multiple participants or groups.

Keep in mind that each lane (which can be either horizontal or vertical) in a swimlane diagram represents a different participant or group involved in the process. The steps or activities carried out by each participant are plotted within their respective lanes. This helps clarify roles and responsibilities as well as the sequence of events and points of interaction.

Swimlane diagrams are best for : Visualizing how different roles or departments interact and collaborate throughout a workflow or process.

15. Mind maps

A mind map starts with a central idea and expands outward to include supporting ideas, related subtopics, concepts, or tasks, which can be further subdivided as needed. The branches radiating out from the central idea represent hierarchical relationships and connections between the different pieces of information in a mind map.

Mind maps are best for : Brainstorming, taking notes, organizing information, and visualizing complex concepts in a digestible format.

16. Scatter Plots

Scatter plots are used to compare data and represent the relationship between two variables. In a scatter plot, each dot represents a data point with its position along the x and y axes representing the values of two variables.

Scatter plots are best for : Observing relationships and trends between the two variables. These scatter plots are useful for regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and data exploration in various fields such as statistics, economics, and natural sciences.

17. PERT chart

PERT (Project Evaluation Review Technique) charts are project management tools used to schedule tasks. Each node or arrow represents each task, while lines represent dependencies between tasks. The chart includes task duration and earliest/latest start/end times.

Construction project managers often use PERT charts to schedule tasks like design, site prep, construction, and inspection. Identifying the critical path helps focus resources on tasks that impact the project timeline.

PERT charts are best for : Visualizing the sequence of tasks, the time required for each task, and project timelines.

18. Network diagrams

A network diagram visually represents the relationships between elements in a system or project. In network diagrams, each node represents an element, such as a device in a computer network or a task in a project. The lines or arrows connecting the nodes represent the relationships or interactions between these elements.

Network diagrams are best for: Visually representing the relationships or connections between different elements in a system or a project. They are often used in telecommunications, computer networking, project management, and organization planning.

Choosing the right diagram starts with a good understanding of your audience

Understanding your audience’s needs, expectations, and context is necessary before designing diagrams. The best diagram is not the one that looks the most impressive but the one that communicates complex information most clearly and effectively to your intended audience.

Make professional diagrams for free with no design experience with Piktochart’s online diagram maker . Sign up for free .

Kyjean Tomboc is an experienced content marketer for healthcare, design, and SaaS brands. She also manages content (like a digital librarian of sorts). She lives for mountain trips, lap swimming, books, and cats.

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Information Visualization

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

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.

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.

• Transcript loading…

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

All open-source articles on Information Visualization

Information overload, why it matters and how to combat it.

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• 3 years ago

Visual Representation

How to Design an Information Visualization

How to Visualize Your Qualitative User Research Results for Maximum Impact

• 2 years ago

Preattentive Visual Properties and How to Use Them in Information Visualization

• 5 years ago

How to Conduct Focus Groups

Information Visualization – A Brief Introduction

The Properties of Human Memory and Their Importance for Information Visualization

• 7 years ago

Visual Mapping – The Elements of Information Visualization

Guidelines for Good Visual Information Representations

• 4 years ago

How to Show Hierarchical Data with Information Visualization

Information Visualization – An Introduction to Multivariate Analysis

• 8 years ago

Information Visualization – Who Needs It?

How to Display Complex Network Data with Information Visualization

Vision and Visual Perception Challenges

Information Visualization an Introduction to Transformable Information Representations

The Principles of Information Visualization for Basic Network Data

The Continuum of Understanding and Information Visualization

• 6 years ago

Information Visualization – A Brief Pre-20th Century History

Information Visualization an Introduction to Manipulable Information Representations

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Understanding Data Visualization Principles and Practices

In today’s data-driven world , effectively communicating information through visual representations is becoming increasingly important.

Data visualization is crucial in decision-making and enhancing communication between various stakeholders.

Presenting complex information clearly and concisely allows us to make sense of vast amounts of data and draw meaningful insights.

The importance of data visualization in today’s world

Data visualization has become indispensable in various fields, including business, healthcare, finance, and academia.

It enables us to interpret complex data sets quickly and accurately, making identifying patterns, trends, and outliers easier.

The role of visualizing data in decision-making

Data visualization helps decision-makers transform raw data into actionable insights.

Visual representations, such as graphs, charts, and maps, allow decision-makers to easily identify relationships, correlations, and anomalies, leading to more informed and strategic decision-making.

Enhancing communication through the use of visuals

Data visualization goes beyond aiding decision-makers and facilitates effective communication among teams and stakeholders.

Visualisations enable information to be presented in a way that is easily understood by both technical and non-technical audiences.

They simplify complex information, making it more accessible and engaging. This promotes collaboration, improves understanding, and ensures that insights are effectively shared and acted upon.

Moreover, data visualization can be a powerful storytelling tool .

By combining data with compelling visuals, narratives can be created that captivate the audience and memorably convey complex information.

This is particularly useful in fields such as journalism, where it can present investigative findings or shed light on societal issues.

Basic principles

When creating data visualizations, adhering to basic principles to ensure clarity and effectiveness is essential.

Two fundamental principles are the principle of proportionality and maximizing the data-ink ratio.

The principle of proportionality

The principle of proportionality states that visual elements should accurately represent the displayed data.

This means that visual elements’ size, shape, and position should be proportionate to their underlying data values.

The principle of maximizing the data-ink ratio

The principle of maximizing the data-ink ratio emphasizes the importance of removing non-essential visual elements, or “ chartjunk ,” to enhance the clarity and efficiency of the visualization.

The data-ink ratio increases by reducing unnecessary decorations and distractions, allowing the data to take center stage.

Different types of data visualizations

Visualizing data can take various forms suited to different data types and purposes.

Understanding bar charts and histograms

Bar charts and histograms are commonly used to represent categorical or numerical data.

Bar charts show comparisons between different categories, each represented by a separate bar.

Histograms, on the other hand, display the distribution of continuous data by dividing it into bins or intervals.

The use of scatter plots and line graphs

Scatter plots and line graphs are frequently used to illustrate relationships between two or more variables.

Scatter plots display individual data points and their relationships, while line graphs connect data points with lines, showing trends over time or between variables.

Best practices

When creating data visuals, there are several best practices to follow to ensure their effectiveness and impact.

These practices involve selecting the right visualization for your data and ensuring clarity and simplicity in your design.

Choosing the right visualization for your data

The key to effective visualization of data is selecting the right visualization for your specific data set and the message you want to convey.

Understanding the characteristics of your data, such as its type and underlying relationships, allows you to choose the most appropriate type of visualization.

Ensuring clarity and simplicity

Clarity and simplicity should be at the forefront of your data visualization design.

Avoid cluttering your visualization with unnecessary elements or overcomplicating the design.

Use clear labels, appropriate colors, and meaningful visual cues to guide the viewer’s interpretation.

Common pitfalls

While data visualization can be a powerful tool, common pitfalls can hinder its effectiveness and lead to misleading interpretations.

By being aware of and avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure that your visuals are accurate, informative, and impactful.

Avoiding misleading representations

One of the most significant pitfalls in data visualization is the risk of misleading representations.

Visualizations can unintentionally distort or misrepresent data, leading to incorrect conclusions or interpretations.

The danger of overcomplicating visuals

Overcomplicating visuals is another common pitfall.

Adding unnecessary elements, excessive details, or complex interactions can overwhelm viewers and distract them from the main message.

Keep your visualization simple and focused, removing unnecessary distractions that deviate from the core insights.

Understanding data visualization principles and practices is crucial in today’s data-centric world.

By utilizing the right visualizations, adhering to best practices, and avoiding common pitfalls, we can harness the power of visualization to effectively communicate insights, support decision-making, and drive impactful outcomes.

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Unlock the power of visual thinking with visual thinking strategies

Create beautiful charts & infographics get started, 13.06.2023 by anete ezera.

Most people are visual learners . According to research , we identify, process, and understand visual information more efficiently than text. That’s one of many reasons why infographics are used to convey information effectively, using images, symbols, and data visualizations. It also explains why it’s difficult for many people to stay focused during a dry lecture or learn only by reading books. Embracing visual thinking can significantly enhance learning and understanding. Visual thinking is a cognitive process that utilizes visual and spatial representations to organize, process, and comprehend information. It harnesses the power of visuals to enhance creativity, problem-solving, and communication. This article explores the concept of visual thinking, its strategies, benefits, and how it compares to verbal thinking. Additionally, we delve into the significance of design as thinking made visual and highlight how Infogram, a data visualization tool, can complement visual thinkers’ capabilities.

Click to jump ahead: What is visual thinking? Visual thinking strategies 1. Mind mapping 2. Storyboarding 3. Visual note-taking Visual thinking examples

What is visual thinking?

Visual thinking refers to the mental process of constructing and manipulating visual images in the mind’s eye. It involves the use of diagrams, sketches, symbols, and other visual tools to represent and manipulate information. Visual thinking enables individuals to better perceive, analyze, and synthesize complex ideas and concepts.

Visual thinking vs. verbal thinking

Verbal thinking and visual thinking are two distinct cognitive processes that help to perceive, process, and communicate information. As previously stated, visual thinking involves the use of mental images, spatial relationships, and visual representations to analyze and understand concepts. It allows individuals to think in pictures and patterns, enabling them to generate creative solutions, recognize visual cues, and engage in imaginative problem-solving.

On the other hand, verbal thinking relies predominantly on linguistic skills, utilizing words, language, and logical reasoning to process information. Verbal thinkers excel in analytical tasks, critical thinking, and articulating their thoughts through language. Both visual and verbal thinking are valuable cognitive styles, each offering unique strengths and preferences in how individuals perceive and interpret the world around them. By recognizing and embracing the power of both visual and verbal thinking, individuals can tap into a broader range of cognitive abilities and enhance their overall problem-solving and communication skills.

Visual thinking strategies

If you seek to improve your learning and understanding process or you want to convey information more effectively ( marketing , advertising, teaching), look out for visual thinking strategies. Visual thinking strategies encompass various techniques that facilitate the application of visual thinking. Some of the most common visual thinking strategies are mind mapping, concept mapping, storyboarding, and visual note-taking. By employing these methods, you can organize information, identify relationships, and generate new insights.

Mind mapping

Mind mapping is a visual thinking and note-taking technique that involves creating a hierarchical diagram to represent ideas, concepts, and their relationships. It is a powerful tool for brainstorming, organizing thoughts, and enhancing creativity.

Key aspects of mind mapping

• Central idea: A mind map begins with a central idea or topic placed in the center of the page or screen. It serves as the focal point from which all other ideas radiate.
• Branches and sub-branches: The central idea is connected to branches, which represent major themes or categories related to the topic. Each branch can then be further expanded into sub-branches, representing more specific concepts or details.
• Keywords and visual elements: Mind maps utilize keywords and short phrases to capture the essence of ideas. Visual elements such as icons, symbols, colors, and images can also be incorporated to enhance understanding, stimulate memory, and add visual appeal.
• Non-linear structure: Unlike traditional note-taking methods, mind maps follow a non-linear structure. Ideas can be added, modified, or expanded anywhere on the map, allowing for flexibility and the exploration of different connections and perspectives.

Mind mapping benefits

• Enhanced creativity: Mind mapping stimulates creativity by encouraging free-flowing associations and connections between ideas. It enables individuals to explore new possibilities and generate innovative solutions to problems.
• Improved comprehension and retention: Mind maps utilize visual-spatial representation, making information more memorable and easier to understand. The visual layout helps the brain organize and connect concepts, aiding in comprehension and long-term retention.
• Efficient organization: Mind maps provide a clear overview of complex information, allowing for easy identification of key ideas, relationships, and hierarchies. They help individuals structure their thoughts and present information in a concise and organized manner.
• Collaborative tool: Mind maps can be used as collaborative tools for group discussions, brainstorming sessions, and project planning. They promote effective communication, facilitate idea sharing, and foster teamwork.
• Versatility: Mind maps can be applied to various tasks and disciplines, including education, project management, problem-solving, and personal organization. They can be created on paper, whiteboards, or using digital mind mapping software.

In summary, mind mapping is a flexible and effective technique that harnesses the power of visualization to enhance creativity, comprehension, and organization. By capturing and organizing ideas in a non-linear and visually engaging format, mind mapping helps individuals explore and communicate complex concepts with clarity and efficiency.

If you want to make your own mind map, you can easily create it using Infogram. Simply select a blank canvas and start creating. Use images , connectors, animations , data visualizations, and more to visualize your concepts and ideas. Get inspired by mind mapping examples here.

Storyboarding

Storyboarding is a visual thinking and planning technique commonly used in various creative fields such as film, animation, advertising, and design. It involves creating a series of sequential visual panels or sketches that depict the key moments, actions, and compositions of a story or project.

Key aspects of storyboarding

• Visualizing the story: Storyboarding involves visually depicting the key moments, scenes, and compositions of a story or project. It serves as a visual representation of how the narrative unfolds, allowing creators to visualize and plan the sequence of events.
• Sequential panels: Storyboards consist of a series of sequential panels or frames that depict specific moments in the story. Each panel represents a key action, shot, or scene, and they are arranged in a linear sequence to reflect the progression of the story.
• Action and movement: Storyboards illustrate the action and movement within each scene. They depict the characters’ poses, gestures, and expressions, as well as the flow of movement from one frame to another. This helps convey the dynamics and pacing of the story.
• Visual styling and aesthetics: Storyboards may also incorporate visual styling elements to indicate the desired aesthetics, mood, or visual effects. This can include color schemes, lighting references, or references to specific visual references or inspirations.
• Pre-visualization: Storyboarding serves as a pre-visualization tool, allowing creators to assess the visual flow and overall coherence of the story before the actual production begins. It helps identify any potential issues or adjustments needed, saving time and resources during the production phase.

Storyboarding purposes

• Visualizing ideas: Storyboards help translate abstract ideas into concrete visuals. By sketching out scenes and sequences, creators can visualize the overall flow of their story or project, identify gaps or inconsistencies, and make necessary adjustments before committing to a final version.
• Storytelling and narrative structure: Storyboards enable creators to map out the narrative structure of their project. Each panel represents a specific moment or scene, allowing for a clear visualization of how the story unfolds, including key events, character interactions, and important visual elements.
• Planning and collaboration: Storyboarding serves as a blueprint for the production process. It helps plan camera angles, shot compositions, and transitions, aiding in efficient resource allocation and coordination among team members. Storyboards also facilitate communication and collaboration by providing a visual reference that all stakeholders can easily understand and discuss.
• Visualizing visual effects and animation: In fields such as film and animation, storyboarding is crucial for pre-visualizing complex visual effects, action sequences, or animated scenes. It allows for experimenting with different visual techniques, camera movements, and timing, helping artists and directors envision and refine the desired visual aesthetics.

Overall, storyboarding is a powerful visual thinking tool that helps streamline the creative process, communicate ideas effectively, and ensure a cohesive and well-planned outcome for various visual storytelling projects .

Visual note-taking

Visual note-taking is a technique that combines words and visuals to capture and represent information during lectures, presentations, meetings, or other learning experiences. It involves using a combination of drawings, icons, symbols, typography, and organizational structures to visually summarize and illustrate key ideas and concepts.

Key aspects of visual note-taking

• Visual representation: Visual note-taking emphasizes the use of visuals to complement and enhance written or spoken information. It involves creating quick sketches, diagrams, icons, and other visual elements to represent ideas, objects, processes, and relationships.
• Selective and simplified content: Visual note-takers selectively capture and summarize information by focusing on key points, essential ideas, and memorable quotes. They use concise wording and visual symbols to distill complex concepts into more digestible and memorable forms.
• Structural layout: Visual notes often follow a structured layout that helps organize and sequence information. This can include the use of visual frameworks such as mind maps, flowcharts, timelines, or grids to visually arrange content in a logical and coherent manner.
• Visual hierarchy: Visual note-taking employs visual hierarchy to emphasize the importance and relationships between different elements. This can be achieved through the use of font size, bolding, color coding, arrows, and other visual cues that guide the viewer’s attention and understanding.

Visual note-taking benefits

• Improved engagement and focus: Visual note-taking promotes active listening and engagement during lectures or presentations. It encourages note-takers to pay closer attention to the content, identify key ideas, and think critically about how to visually represent them.
• Enhanced comprehension and memory: Visual notes combine the power of visuals and text, making information more memorable and easier to understand. The use of visuals aids in visual-spatial learning, which can enhance comprehension and retention of the information being captured.
• Creativity and personal expression: Visual note-taking allows individuals to infuse their personal style, creativity, and interpretation into their notes. It provides a creative outlet for expressing ideas and insights in a visually appealing and unique way.
• Effective communication and sharing: Visual notes can be easily shared with others to convey complex information in a concise and engaging manner. They serve as visual summaries that capture the essence of a topic, making it easier to communicate ideas, teach others, or revisit information at a glance.

Visual note-taking is a versatile technique that can be adapted to various learning and professional contexts. Whether done on paper or digitally using note-taking apps or tablets, visual note-taking offers a dynamic and visually stimulating approach to capturing and retaining information. Check out a few examples of visual note-taking below. You can easily create these and other types of visual notes using Infogram. Either create them from scratch or use a pre-designed template and fill in the information. 

Visual Thinking Examples

Visual thinking finds application in various fields, including education, business, science, and design. Here are a few examples of visual thinking in practice. These include using mind maps to outline ideas, creating visual presentations to engage audiences, employing flowcharts to analyze processes, and utilizing infographics to convey complex data in an accessible manner.

Slide-based presentation templates 

Flowchart templates, infographic templates, infogram: empowering visual thinkers.

Visual thinking is a valuable cognitive process that leverages the power of visuals to enhance understanding, problem-solving, and communication. By utilizing visual thinking strategies and embracing design as thinking made visual, individuals can tap into their creative potential and generate innovative solutions. If you’re looking for a tool that would support you in creating engaging and informative visual content, try Infogram. With a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customizable templates, you can transform complex data sets into compelling visuals such as charts, graphs, maps , and infographics . By leveraging Infogram, you can enhance your ability to convey ideas visually and effectively communicate information to your target audience. Try it out today and start creating impactful visuals! 

Interested in discovering how Infogram can enhance your team’s work? Join a brief Zoom session with our Infogram representative to explore key features, get answers to your questions, and understand how we can assist. It’s quick, informative, and just like a coffee break chat. Schedule your call now!

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The Importance of Visual Communication: Definition, Examples, & Benefits

Visual communication is a powerful and versatile way to convey ideas, information, and possibly emotions. This article aims to discuss the importance of visual communication, providing an overview of its various definitions, examples of its use, and the associated benefits.

It offers a comprehensive analysis of a range of topics, from visual literacy and storyboarding to using infographics to display data. In addition, this article covers how to best utilize visuals to enhance messages and create effective campaigns.

So, step into the world of visual communication and explore how it can help make any presentation, report, or project more successful.

What is Visual Communication?

Visual communication is the art of using visuals to express ideas and information. From text, diagrams, illustrations, photographs, and videos to graphic design – there are many different types of visuals that can be used in visual communication. When visual images are combined together, they create a powerful presentation that can effectively communicate any message.

Graphic design is one of the six main categories within visual communication; it uses visuals to create layouts and designs. Advertising also falls into this category as it uses visuals to promote products or services. Photography and illustration capture moments or tell stories visually appealing, while web design and video production use visuals for interactive experiences users can engage with.

The four main types of visual communication are typography, graphics, layout, and motion. Typography involves creating typefaces, while graphics include illustrations, images, and logos. Layout arranges these elements on a page or screen, while motion adds animation for a dynamic experience. All these components work together to form an effective message that resonates with viewers!

Finally, the part of the brain responsible for processing all this visual information is called the visual cortex – an incredibly powerful area capable of quickly making sense of what we see!

Why Is Visual Communication Important?

Visual communication is a powerful tool for people to express their ideas and concepts in an efficient, effective way. Through visuals and visual mediums such as data visualizations, presentations, and graphic design, complex topics can be presented in a more understandable format. Visual communication is used in advertising, public relations, and design – you name it – to help people comprehend information quickly and accurately.

Visuals are the bridge that traditional word-focused communication fails to build. By using body language and adding images into the message mix, one can communicate ideas with greater impact than words alone. Visuals have the power to inspire change and reach large audiences without language barriers getting in the way.

The purpose of visual communication is clear: understand complex info, create compelling presentations, and advertise products or services effectively. But if done wrong? Misunderstandings and confusion will follow suit! That’s why it’s important to consider both pros & cons before implementing visuals into your marketing strategy. A 2019 study showed that attention spans are decreasing at an alarming rate – making visuals even more essential for capturing viewers’ attention spans today!

It Increases Engagement

Visual communication can be a powerful tool for reaching potential customers. It’s an effective way to make your brand more memorable, as iconic ads can become widely known and remembered. To engage viewers, incorporate high-quality images and videos into content, tailor visuals to the audience, and use visuals to capture their interest. Visual communication also has the power to inspire change or evoke emotion through symbols and visual metaphors. Plus, it helps build trust with customers by creating a positive first impression that encourages action.

It Enhances Learning and Retention

Visual communication strategy can be used to connect strategy with the VAK theory, which states that people learn through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods. By incorporating strong visual communication strategies, one can cater to the needs of visual learners and create a positive learning environment. Visuals also allow viewers to pay attention to, think about, and understand a message; they are also more memorable than text content alone, making the end product more memorable.

Incorporating visuals into communication can also help to increase understanding of the process, reduce confusion, and motivate employees. When presenting complex information, visuals can bridge the gap between concepts and words, making the content more engaging and aiding in comprehension. The visual cortex, the part of the brain responsible for processing visual information, is also an important aspect of visual communication, as it can help people to retain information.

It Helps Create Connections

Visual communication can be a powerful tool for influencing and persuading people’s opinions. By creating connections and using visuals to clarify a message, one can create meaningful content that leaves an impression. But inconsistencies in visuals can lead to confusion or alienation of customers.

This form of visual communication helps us build relationships with people from all over the world – especially in this digital age where visuals are more important than ever before. They provide a clear way to share ideas and thoughts while also evoking emotions and answering the question, “why should I care?”.

Organizational systems help avoid any potential confusion or conflict by providing everyone involved with a reference point. Visuals can also present process documents quickly, so teams understand new organizational processes easily. And visual storytelling makes messages stick longer, making them more memorable for viewers.

How to Use Visual Communication Effectively

Visual communication is a powerful tool for any organization, helping to engage viewers and create lasting impressions. It involves conveying messages or ideas using visual elements such as photos, videos, graphs, typography, charts, maps, and illustrations.

When it comes to visual communication strategies, there are many options – from selecting elements to create meaning for the audience to incorporating visuals that add depth and context. Common tools used by graphic designers include charts, graphs, and diagrams.

To make effective use of visual communication, you can employ symbols to convey meaning; utilize color to communicate visually and evoke emotion; incorporate visuals into marketing materials; craft a message that educates, motivates, and engages with design principles; all while making sure your message is memorable!

Read our blog posts about

What is Mass Communication? How to Communicate with a Large Audience What Is Corporate Communication: The Basics Why is Intercultural Communication Important

Visual and Kinesthetic Imagery

Visual and kinesthetic imagery is like a bridge between complex ideas and technical information, helping people to process changes cross over into understanding. It can evoke emotions, add details that text alone cannot convey, and provide a reference point for further exploration.

In education, visuals such as process diagrams such as mind maps allow students to better understand and organize complex information. Pie charts, bar graphs, and other data visualizations also help illustrate points in an engaging way. For organizations, visuals can make unclear expectations clearer while keeping everyone on the same page. Visual storytelling is a powerful tool for communicating complex info in an appealing manner.

Data Storytelling

Data storytelling is a way to use visuals to communicate information, ideas, and processes in an interesting manner. Visuals can be used to show risk, handle large amounts of data, and emphasize comparisons. When creating visual content, it’s important to consider the target audience and choose visuals that are relevant to them – images, diagrams, charts, videos, etc. Incorporating visuals into emails or presentations makes the message more engaging and memorable.

Coherence is also essential when it comes to data storytelling – making sure all visuals tell one story together so they provide a clear, unified message. Data storytelling is invaluable for organizations in this digital age as it helps engage customers in new ways; healthcare providers can use visuals to explain complex info, while businesses on social media can differentiate from competitors with visual communication.

To make effective visual communication possible, there are some basics you should know about: understand what works best for your target audience, be aware of different ways you could improve visual imagery, and utilize tools available at your disposal. With these tips, you’ll create visuals that will engage people’s attention and motivate them!

Benefits of Visual Communication

Visual communication is a powerful tool for businesses and organizations to communicate effectively and engage their target audiences. By incorporating visual elements such as data visualization, visual storytelling, and content marketing into communication strategies, companies can create an unforgettable experience for customers while promoting products or services.

The advantages of visual communication are plentiful – from creating a more understandable representation of information that surpasses language barriers to forming a concrete connection with the viewer. It also helps build brand recognition by crafting a professional image for businesses.

Using visuals in business has many benefits, including increased connection among team members and audiences, improved engagement, heightened brand awareness, and more memorable content. Visuals can quickly convey complex ideas which viewers can easily process and remember; they also make dry information easier to digest by adding context to it. Data visualization is essential in effective visual communication since it allows businesses to analyze large amounts of data sets, recognize relationships between them, and spot trends. Additionally, dynamic visuals keep users informed on the latest news, thus keeping them engaged with the company’s message.

In conclusion, utilizing the benefits of visual communication is key in helping businesses communicate effectively with their targeted audiences while increasing sales and building brand awareness at the same time. It improves reception and retention of information, making processes simpler to understand and reducing confusion or mistakes along the way; plus, it brings up $1 200 per year productivity per employee who consumes content as part of their job role! Nonprofits, too, benefit from this type of visual communication tool as it updates stakeholders on campaigns or research results swiftly yet efficiently!

Visual communication is an essential tool allowing us to express the most complex of ideas effectively and engage with our audiences quickly and in an innovative way. It serves as an efficient way to break language barriers, offers an intriguing method for storytelling, aids comprehension of topics, and lets businesses reach larger customer bases through their visual presentation.

In terms of the implementation of visual aid, there are a few tactics to be aware of when it comes to effective visual communication. Visuals such as video and imagery can be used to increase engagement and understanding, while data storytelling can help create meaningful connections across cultures. With the potential benefits offered by visual media, businesses have the opportunity to spark change, deepen customer engagement, and improve learning retention.

All this makes visual communication an important tool for modern meeting demands and driving growth in any organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is visual communication, and why is it important.

Visual communication is the transmission of ideas and information via visual elements such as text, images, graphics, and other components communicating information. It is an important tool for businesses to convey information, promote their products or services, and create meaningful connections with their audience.

Visual aids to communication can be seen in typography, logos, website design, videos, photographs, illustrations, and other visuals.

What is the benefit of visual communication?

The benefit of visual communication is that it helps to get messages across quickly and effectively; communicating visually engages an audience better than words alone and can be used to reinforce written or spoken health messages.

Visuals are also more flexible and attention-grabbing, making complex concepts easier to comprehend.

What is the importance of visual communications 10 points?

Visual communication is essential for meaningful, effective communication as it enables us to convey ideas quickly and effectively. It connects with people emotionally, helps clarify complex concepts, and assists in making persuasive arguments.

Visuals can increase retention of the conveyed message and evoke an emotional response from the viewer. Aug 18, 2021

Why is visual communication an important skill?

Visual communication is a powerful tool for conveying information to an audience quickly and effectively. It allows us to better understand complex concepts and information, draw conclusions, solve problems, and convey messages with clarity.

Visuals play an important role in how we interact with the world around us and can bring greater depth and understanding to communication.

What is meant by visual communication?

Visual communication is the process of conveying messages or ideas through visuals, such as images, videos, diagrams, graphs, and illustrations. Visual communication can be used to communicate ideas more effectively than using words alone and can have a powerful impact on an audience.

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Interactive Infographics: A Guide To Data Visualization

You have 8 seconds to catch the attention of your target audience. That’s it. 

What does that mean for your business? Basically, in an age of marketing where your reader has an attention span shorter than a goldfish, creating engaging content is more important than ever.

When it comes to your digital marketing strategy, don’t neglect the power of interactive infographics. Adding elements of user interaction can take a static infographic to the next level — becoming an increasingly engaging piece of content and telling a more comprehensive story.

Let’s take a closer look at how interactive infographics can add value to your content marketing strategy. 

What Exactly Is an Interactive Infographic?

First things first: What’s an infographic? 

An infographic is essentially a graphic visual representation of information, data or knowledge aimed at presenting information in a way that’s easy to understand. This design tool is a great way to educate, inform and make complex information easily digestible for the reader. An infographic can add value to your content marketing when you want to:

• Provide a quick overview of a specific topic.
• Display data or research findings in a visually appealing way. 
• Simplify a complicated concept.
• Compare and contrast multiple options. 
• Raise awareness. 

OK, so what’s an interactive infographic then?

An interactive infographic includes interactive user interface (UI) elements that make for a more dynamic experience. When done right, this type of content feels like an in-depth conversation with your target audience — helping users engage and make lasting connections with your brand.

Demand Gen reports 85% of B2B marketers are already using or plan to use interactive infographics as part of their strategy, where interactive content has been effective in differentiating their brands from their competitors. With the growing popularity of interactivity in mind, let’s dive into a few examples that you’ll want to follow!

Some of the Best Examples To Inspire Your Next Project

Below are 5 interactive infographics you can come back to when you need creative ideas:

1. “How Seamless Is Your Omnichannel CX?”

This interactive infographic for Zendesk , created by Brafton, allows brands to answer questions to determine how they stack up against the competition in terms of their omnichannel CX. Zendesk — providing software-as-a-service products that support improved customer service — leveraged this quiz to create a personalized experience by presenting the user with further content to consume based on their answers. 

Interactive elements: This graphic is in the form of a quiz!

Why it works: This graphic is ultimately successful because it follows the rule, “keep it simple, but significant.” Turning the information and data to be presented into a quiz is a relatively straightforward idea, but it does a great job of engaging the audience. The reader has a valuable opportunity to better understand niche subject matter, and, in this case, where they stand in comparison to others — offering a more personalized experience. 

2. “My Home vs Mahomes”

This infographic from World Sports Network (WSN) allows the reader to input their salary to see how long it would take them to purchase the homes of several professional athletes — including National Football League MVP, quarterback and Super Bowl champion, Patrick Mahomes. WSN, a leader in sports news and resources, used this infographic to not only bring attention to their brand, but also help readers gain perspective on just how massive NFL and other sports contracts can be. 

Interactive elements: User input modifies and personalizes the infographic.

Why it works: This infographic is effective because it requires limited interactivity from the user. With one action, viewers can enjoy an engaging and personalized experience that’s likely to sustain their interest in the page. It’s also a simple and effective way to put a niche topic into perspective for the reader.

Give this slightly-maddening graphic a go, here .  

3. “The New New York City Skyline”

With Manhattan seeing an exceptional boom in tall buildings — which are rapidly and radically changing the skyline — the National Geographic online publication shared this infographic to give viewers a unique perspective into how the skyscrapers in the city were scheduled to look by the end of 2020. Users can interact with this graphic by scrolling through and viewing the separated 3D sections. Buildings are color-coded and labeled, and the reader can hover over or click on elements to learn more along the way.

Interactive elements: This graphic features scrolling and hovering effects, clickable elements and 3D imaging. 

Why it works: This one infographic packs a lot of information. And, it gives the user that information in engaging and bite-sized pieces, allowing the reader to explore the details at their own pace. By taking this informative content from intriguing to captivating, viewers are not only more likely to actively participate in and enjoy the experience but also retain the information they learned much longer.  

Interactive infographics are a great resource to support your content, but if you’re in a pinch for time,  this type of graphic might not be your simplest choice. In fact, it requires a bit of work to do successfully. But, if you have a more flexible timeline and you’re willing to put in the effort, you certainly won’t regret it!

Try it out for yourself here .

4. “An Animated Chart of 42 North American Butterflies”

Tabletop Whale creates original science illustrations that are made as an aid to help individuals gain a deeper understanding of specific science-themed topics. They designed this animated infographic to educate viewers about a host of butterfly species in North America. 

Interactive elements: This graphic uses animation to bring these butterflies to life.

Why it works: Using micro-animations, the infographic is immediately eye-catching and serves both entertainment and educational purposes. While adding animation was a seemingly simple choice, it makes a significant difference in how any reader will eventually consume the content — elevating a static infographic and supporting greater engagement. 

Take a look .

5. “An Analysis of the Beatles?”

One of my personal favorites, Dueling Data’s interactive infographic tells a clear and visual story of information surrounding the Beatles and their music throughout their careers. 

Interactive elements: This infographic takes advantage of hovering effects and clickable elements.

Why it works: As a Beatles fan myself, one could argue that this is a pretty interesting topic to begin with. So, why opt for a graphic with interactivity at its core? In this case, an interactive infographic works because such a prolific band means there’s immense data to showcase and highlight — which can be difficult to display in a clear or concise way. This content succeeds at presenting all of the data gathered (which is clearly a lot ) in a visually appealing, engaging and understandable way.

You can check it out here .

If interactivity is the future of data visualization, how can you make the most of this type of design tool?

A Guide To Creating an Engaging and Interactive Infographic

When it comes to the possibilities of interactive infographics, the examples discussed are just the tip of the iceberg. Eager to get started on an interactive piece for your content? Understandable, of course. But, wait for just a second! 

Before diving in, take a look at our guide for creating interactive graphics successfully :

1. Collect Necessary Data and Effectively Communicate the Information

The first step to make virtually any content is gathering data. For someone who’s well-versed in the marketing space, this initial action may seem pretty obvious, but it really is the foundation for a successful process.

Uninteresting and irrelevant data won’t become magically riveting with the addition of visuals. The information you’re presenting needs to be just as captivating as the interactive elements you plan to include for the most powerful visual storytelling.  

2. Organize Your Data With Compelling Visuals

Now, you can consider the visual elements that would be fitting for your content — which is what makes an infographic unique in the first place. Instead of your humdrum list of facts or statistics, you can incorporate interesting visuals to maintain reader interest and engagement. 

Suitable, attention-grabbing visuals can add flavor to an otherwise dull presentation of information. Here are just some of the elements you might include:

• Digital images.
• Illustrations.
• Charts and graphs.

Remember: Consistency is key! The same is true for your visual content. Pay attention to the color, tone and the type of visual elements you plan to make use of, and don’t stray too far from that path. 

3. Determine and Apply the Interactive Elements You Want To Include

Now that you have a pretty clear picture of what you’re going for, It’s finally time to start thinking about the interactive portion of your information graphic. Exciting, right? 

For the best results, you need to identify and apply the interactive elements that not only complement the data you’re presenting but bring it to life for your viewers. This can make all the difference. While the options for interactive features are practically endless, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Including embedded video or audio.
• Adding popups.
• Incorporating clickable elements.
• Leveraging hover effects.
• Using animation.

Pretty simple right? You’re essentially approaching the process like you would any other infographic and adding the interactive elements you need for a more engaging user experience. When a static infographic isn’t enough to help viewers engage or understand the topic at hand, interactivity can save the day.

The Value of Visual Storytelling and Data Visualization 

At the end of the day, an interactive experience makes for an engaging infographic — and that’s good for your brand and your bottom line.

Captivating viewers helps them derive true value from your content, which is the cornerstone of keeping your brand at the front of consumers’ minds and building long-term loyalty. And if the road to lasting consumer loyalty starts with something as simple as creating interactive infographics that support your information-rich content, why not take advantage of it? 

It’s time to see where visual storytelling and data visualization can take your content! 

Samantha Finley

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Samantha Finley is a Brafton Content Writer in Texas with a background in social media coordination. Her creativity extends beyond her work life, as she's also a competitive hip-hop dancer, choreographer and now teacher.

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Information Visualization: Communicating Clearly, Efficiently, and Without Distractions

By Riccardo Mazza

Visualizing information allows us to convey complex ideas quickly and easily. With a deeper understanding of how people decode and process information, we can use careful design to minimize visual clutter and make visualizations simpler and easier to interpret.

Nowadays, we are overwhelmed by data. The diffusion of information and communication technologies, and the advent of internet and mobile devices have produced a quantity of information at an unprecedent rate. It was estimated that by 2020, for every person on Earth, 1.7 megabytes of data would be created every second. 1 This proliferation of data implies that being able to present complex, technical information is more important than ever — and we can do it more effectively by presenting information in a visual format. Information visualization, also called data visualization, is a discipline concerned with how complex technical information can be represented in graphical format, so that it can be understood and consumed in a useful way.

The Picture Superiority Effect and Human Perception

When data is represented graphically, we can exploit the “picture superiority effect.” The picture superiority effect is a phenomenon in which people learn and retain information much better when it comes in the form of images rather than words. 2 It takes advantage of our innate perceptual abilities to explore, communicate, and make sense of complex phenomena. This is because the human brain can perceive particular data features and unveil the underlying structure most effectively when the data is expressed graphically. 3 The picture of superiority effect is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

In Figure 1, the extract from a data table representing fossil fuel consumption over the past century can’t make explicit what we immediately see from the graph in Figure 2 — the progression of fossil fuels consumption over the last century and the transition from coal as the primary fuel source towards a combination of fuels that includes oil, gas, and coal, with oil as the primary fuel source.

The table is more difficult to interpret as it requires users to read the numbers, and reading is a complex process that requires a lot of cognitive effort. The table also forces the user to figure out which elements are important, rather than showing the user which elements are important with carefully selected visual attributes. The graph draws the user’s attention toward the relative decrease in coal consumption in recent years with the label and arrow, as well as the highlighted area on the right. This is the intended takeaway of the visualization.

Maximizing Pre-Attentive Processing

When we look at the graph in Figure 2, we immediately perceive the huge increase of fossil fuel consumption over the last half-century. Some visual attributes, like the slope of lines in a line chart, the length of bars in a bar chart, the size and shape of a form, the color of a mark, the width of a line, and the motion of objects, are immediately identified and processed through vision, even before the complex cognitive processes of the human mind come into play. These attributes are called “pre-attentive,” as they are perceived by the user almost instantaneously, without the intervention of conscious thought. 4 Enhancing these attributes so that they stand out from their surroundings, particularly for the most important data elements, draws the attention of your users and creates visual cues that can be processed pre-attentively.

Let’s suppose we want to create a graph that shows which criminal offenses increased in Switzerland from 2019–2020. Figure 3 shows a slope graph where each crime type is mapped with a line, and differences are encoded through the slope, as well as quantitively with the numbers shown in brackets. Our brain is very good at comparing the slopes of different lines, hence our immediately perceiving increases, decreases, and amounts.

To create further emphasis, the types of crimes that increased in 2020 are also presented as blue lines, which increases contrast and attracts the user’s attention almost immediately. In addition, the types of crimes that did not increase are presented as gray lines — gray is a neutral color that naturally recedes into the background. Notice how we chose to use just two different colors, rather than several different colors, to avoid distracting the user with unnecessary clutter. We also chose a neutral grey for the thin, horizontal background lines, which creates contrast with the thicker foreground lines, and further directs the user’s attention to the data we wish to emphasize. Colors should always be used with purpose and intent.

Graphical elements should be carefully selected, as certain elements are more effective than others for conveying specific types of information. For example, varying the lengths of bars and the position of objects on an axis are both excellent for encoding quantitative values. Lines are useful for displaying data over time. Altering the color and size of a shape is more suitable for encoding qualitative measures and for drawing the user’s attention.

Minimizing Cognitive Load

When we look at a graphical representation, we see with our eyes, but we actually create meaning from what we see in our brain. Most of the decoding and processing of information from visualization happens in our short-term memory. This is also called “attentive processing,” because it requires conscious mental effort, and users have to direct their attention and engage their memory to interpret the elements of the graphical representation. Most people can only retain 3–7 pieces of visual information in their working memory at any given time. 5 To avoid cognitive overload, we should limit the number of information items and avoid unnecessary and decorative elements. A careful design minimizes visual clutter, making the visualization simpler and easier to interpret.

For example, if we want to create a visualization of the market share of the top 13 selling films in U.S. box offices in 2020, we may decide to use a pie chart (Figure 4). Pie charts are often used to show relative proportions and percentages. However, pie charts pose some important issues. Particularly, we read pie charts by area of the slices, 6 and research shows that our visual perception is not good at accurately assigning quantitative values to areas, and that shapes are difficult to compare if they are close in size. 7,8 Moreover, color-coded labels force the user to continuously glance back and forth between the legend and the pie, and people who are color blind may not be able to distinguish one element from another. This not only requires more effort for interpretation but can also result in ambiguity and misinterpretation.

In contrast to the pie chart, a bar chart (Figure 5) makes comparing items much easier, and the relationships between elements are much more apparent. As a general rule, when the number of items is more than three, or when you want to evaluate the relative size of items, a pie chart should always be replaced by a simple (and more effective) bar chart. Because the bars are plotted on a common baseline, the comparison of values is much easier.

Designing Information Visualizations

One question people often ask when approaching information visualization is, “How do I create a good information visualization?” It’s a nuanced process that involves multiple variables and making the type of distinctions and decisions that only the human brain can make. There are no rote recipes for effective information visualization, but you can cultivate these skills by developing a deeper understanding of the science behind vision, perceptual psychology, and cognitive science. Good visualization should convey complex data to the user clearly, efficiently, and without distractions. But above all, it should be useful to users who are seeking to answer a question or solve a problem. Visualization design should be guided by a clear understanding of the intended audience and how the visualization serves the needs of that audience. When designing visualizations, ask yourself, “Do I want my users to make an informed decision based on the data?” Or to learn something? Or simply to reflect on the data?

Creating a good visualization is a matter of substance and simplicity. Above all, visualizations should serve a clear purpose. Just because you have data available does not mean that you should represent everything in visual format. When designing a visualization, make design choices that are based on target audiences. What does your audience expect from a visualization? What is the desired outcome? What is the insight you want to convey? Maybe we want to show a trend over time (Figure 2), emphasize a particular relationship between data items (Figure 3), or show how distinct parts are arranged to form a whole (Figures 4 and 5).

Choose relevant data and a visual format that minimizes cognitive load by triggering automatic (pre-attentive) recognition , rather than requiring conscious (attentive) interpretation . Avoid cluttering the visualization with unnecessary background elements, chart borders, gridlines, or decorations. Use labels, colors, and other attributes that draw attention to important information and account for the limits of human perceptual abilities. Remember that there is always something interesting in a data set, and you just need to understand what is relevant to your users.

If you’re interested in learning more about information visualization, perception, and cognition, please refer to the works of Edward Tufte, 3,9,10 Stephen Few, 5,8,11 and Riccardo Mazza. 12  g

• Domo Inc. n.d. “Data never sleeps 6.0. How much data is generated every minute?” https://www.domo.com/assets/downloads/18_domo_data-never-sleeps-6+verticals.pdf
• Paivio, Allan. 1971. Imagery and Verbal Processes. New York: Holt, Rinehart, and Winston.
• Tufte, Edward R. 1983. The Visual Display of Quantitative Information. Chesire, CT: Graphics Press.
• Healey, Christopher and James Enns. 2012. “Attention and Visual Memory in Visualization and Computer Graphics.” IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics 18, no. 7 (July): 1170–88.
• Few, Stephen. 2004. Show Me the Numbers: Designing Tables and Graphs to Enlighten. El Dorado Hills, CA: Analytics Press. ISBN 0970601999
• Skau, Drew and Robert Kosara. 2016. “Arcs, Angles, or Areas: Individual Data Encodings in Pie and Donut Charts.” Computer Graphics Forum, 35: 121-130.
• Cleveland, William S. and Robert McGill. 1986. “An Experiment in Graphical Perception.” International Journal of Man-Machine Studies Volume 25, no. 5: 491-500, ISSN 0020-7373
• Few, Stephen. 2004. “Tapping the Power of Visual Perception.” Perceptual Edge .
• Tufte, Edward R. 1990. Envisioning Information. Cheshire, CT: Graphics Press. ISBN 0961392118
• Tufte, Edward R. 1997. Visual Explanations. Cheshire, CT: Graphics Press, Cheshire. ISBN 0961392126
• Few, Stephen. 2021. Now You See It: An Introduction to Visual Data Sensemaking. El Dorado Hills, CA: Analytics Press. ISBN 978-1938377129
• Mazza, Riccardo. 2009. Introduction to Information Visualization. London: Springer-Verlag London. ISBN 978-1-84800-219-7

What is visual representation?

In the vast landscape of communication, where words alone may fall short, visual representation emerges as a powerful ally. In a world inundated with information, the ability to convey complex ideas, emotions, and data through visual means is becoming increasingly crucial. But what exactly is visual representation, and why does it hold such sway in our understanding?

Defining Visual Representation:

Visual representation is the act of conveying information, ideas, or concepts through visual elements such as images, charts, graphs, maps, and other graphical forms. It’s a means of translating the abstract into the tangible, providing a visual language that transcends the limitations of words alone.

The Power of Images:

The adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” encapsulates the essence of visual representation. Images have an unparalleled ability to evoke emotions, tell stories, and communicate complex ideas in an instant. Whether it’s a photograph capturing a poignant moment or an infographic distilling intricate data, images possess a unique capacity to resonate with and engage the viewer on a visceral level.

Facilitating Understanding:

One of the primary functions of visual representation is to enhance understanding. Humans are inherently visual creatures, and we often process and retain visual information more effectively than text. Complex concepts that might be challenging to grasp through written explanations can be simplified and clarified through visual aids. This is particularly valuable in fields such as science, where intricate processes and structures can be elucidated through diagrams and illustrations.

Visual representation also plays a crucial role in education. In classrooms around the world, teachers leverage visual aids to facilitate learning, making lessons more engaging and accessible. From simple charts that break down historical timelines to interactive simulations that bring scientific principles to life, visual representation is a cornerstone of effective pedagogy.

Data Visualization:

In an era dominated by big data, the importance of data visualization cannot be overstated. Raw numbers and statistics can be overwhelming and abstract, but when presented visually, they transform into meaningful insights. Graphs, charts, and maps are powerful tools for conveying trends, patterns, and correlations, enabling decision-makers to glean actionable intelligence from vast datasets.

Consider the impact of a well-crafted infographic that distills complex research findings into a visually digestible format. Data visualization not only simplifies information but also allows for more informed decision-making in fields ranging from business and healthcare to social sciences and environmental studies.

Cultural and Artistic Expression:

Visual representation extends beyond the realm of information and education; it is also a potent form of cultural and artistic expression. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other visual arts serve as mediums through which individuals can convey their emotions, perspectives, and cultural narratives. Artistic visual representation has the power to transcend language barriers, fostering a shared human experience that resonates universally.

Conclusion:

In a world inundated with information, visual representation stands as a beacon of clarity and understanding. Whether it’s simplifying complex concepts, conveying data-driven insights, or expressing the depth of human emotion, visual elements enrich our communication in ways that words alone cannot. As we navigate an increasingly visual society, recognizing and harnessing the power of visual representation is not just a skill but a necessity for effective communication and comprehension. So, let us embrace the visual language that surrounds us, unlocking a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the world.

• X (Twitter)

The Best Ways to Organize Information Visually

Data is everywhere.

It powers the internet and pulses through your smartphone. It’s the lifeblood of every piece of hardware or app. It drives business decisions. It’s used to persuade, inform, and communicate.

Why is organizing information from viewing important?

And yet, data isn’t always easy to understand. Depending on the kind of information you’re dealing with, it can be unwieldy and cumbersome. Communicating ideas effectively can feel practically impossible.

That’s why visuals are so powerful for organizing and communicating complex ideas . A picture – as they say – is worth 1,000 words.

What is data visualization ?

By organizing data visually, you can make complex information more accessible, understandable, and memorable.

This has never been more important than in today’s world. We are inundated with information from all directions. And the ability to visualize and present data in a clear, concise way is more important than ever.

What is the most effective way to organize information?

In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to organize information visually for different types of data. We’ll look at geographic and location information, alphabetic information, chronological information, hierarchical information, categorical information, and more.

We will discuss various mind map types and techniques that can be used to represent information visually. We’ll cover mind maps, concept maps, organizational charts, Venn diagrams, T-charts, and timelines. And by the end of this article, you’ll understand how to visually organize any type of information. That way, you can create a powerful and engaging visual representation that’s memorable and effective.

1. Organize Geographic & Location-Based Information

Location information refers to data related to physical places, such as cities, buildings, or landmarks. The visual representation of location information can be crucial for understanding and analyzing patterns and relationships between places.

It also makes it easier to make informed decisions.

Use Maps to Organize Data

Using graphic organizers such as maps can help to organize location information in a visual way. Maps can range from simple diagrams to complex visual representations that convey data such as population density, topography, or transportation routes.

For example, a map could be used to visualize the distribution of customers for a business. Different regions could be color-coded to indicate the number of customers in each area.

Another example could be a map used to analyze the spread of disease. Dots could represent the location of each confirmed case. And color-coding could be used to indicate the severity of the outbreak in each area.

You can also use these maps for personal purposes, for example, to mark the countries where you traveled so far.

This kind of graphic organizer could help identify patterns, relationships, and opportunities that might not be immediately apparent from raw data. You can use graphic organizers to visualize location data for business, scientific research, personal uses, and more. Doing so will help you analyze, communicate, and understand the data better.

2. Organize Information in Alphabetical Order

Alphabetic information refers to data that is arranged in alphabetical order, such as lists of names, words, or titles. Alphabetic information is inherently organized. But visual representation can help to highlight specific patterns, connections, and relationships that might not be immediately apparent.

UseT-charts to Organize Data

Using graphic organizers such as T-charts or two columns can be an effective way to visually organize alphabetic information. T-charts are often used to compare and contrast information. One column can be used for similarities and the other for differences. Two columns can be used to categorize information, with one column for each category.

For example, a T-chart could be used to compare two products or services. You could list the similarities in the middle and the differences in the outer columns. Or a two-column chart could be used to categorize a list of books by genre.

Overall, the use of visual representation for alphabetic information can help to make connections and patterns more explicit. They can also improve your ability to understand and analyze the data.

3. Visually Organize Information Related to Chronology

Chronological information refers to data that is organized by time. This could include historical events, project timelines, or a sequence of steps in a process. The visual representation can be especially helpful for organizing chronological information, as it can help to identify patterns, relationships, and dependencies.

Use Timelines & Flowcharts to Organize Data

Using graphic organizers such as timelines and flowcharts can be an effective way to visually organize chronological information. Timeline diagrams can be used to represent the progression of events or milestones over time. Flowchart diagrams can be used to show the sequence of steps in a process.

For example, a timeline could be used to show the major events leading up to a particular historical period. You could add important dates and events along the timeline.

A flowchart could be used to represent the steps in a manufacturing process. You could label each step and connect them with arrows to indicate the flow of the process.

Overall, the use of visual representation for chronological information can help to clarify the sequence of events. Or identify patterns and dependencies. Or highlight potential areas of improvement. Or accomplish a number of other tasks.

4. Organize Hierarchical Information

Hierarchical information refers to data that is organized in a hierarchical or nested structure. This includes everything from organizational structures and family trees ( family genograms ) to classification systems.

Visual representation can be particularly useful for organizing hierarchical information. It can help to visualize the relationships and connections between different levels of the hierarchy.

Use Organizational Charts & Tree Diagrams

Using graphic organizers such as organizational charts ( organigram ) and tree diagrams can be an effective way to visually organize hierarchical information.

Organizational charts can be used to show the structure of an organization. You can clarify different levels of hierarchy using different levels of the chart.

Tree diagrams can be used to represent the hierarchy of a classification system. You can easily make a tree diagram online representing the top level at the root of the tree and subsequent levels branching out from it.

For example, an organizational chart could be used to show the management structure of a company. The CEO would be at the top, and different departments and managers would be represented at different levels below.

A tree diagram could be used to represent the classification of different species in biology. The kingdom would be at the root. Then, you could add subsequent levels representing phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species.

5. Organize Categorical Information

Categorical information refers to data that is organized into categories. This could include types of products, different types of animals, or groups of people based on demographic characteristics.

Visual representation can be particularly useful for organizing categorical information. It can help to compare and contrast different categories and identify relationships between them. It can also connect ideas that you might otherwise miss.

Use Venn Diagrams to Organize Information

Using graphic organizers such as Venn diagrams and concept maps can be an effective way to visually organize categorical information.

Venn diagrams can be used to show the overlap and differences between different categories. Each category can be represented as a circle, and the overlap between them represents the commonalities. You can use two or more circles to create a Venn diagram.

Concept maps can be used to show the relationships between different categories. You can put the main concept or category in the center. Then, make sure you have the central idea surrounded by subcategories and other ideas.

A Venn diagram could be used to compare and contrast different types of cars based on their features. Each type of car would be represented as a circle, and the overlap between them would clarify the common features.

A concept map could be used to show the relationships between different types of animals. The main categories of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles would be in the center. Related subcategories or species would be connected around them.

Use a Mind Map to Organize Data

Mind mapping is a powerful tool for visually organizing information. A mind map is a diagram that represents ideas, tasks, or other items arranged around a central idea or topic. The idea is to use a central image or concept to stimulate thinking and organize information. When you’re done, you’ll have a network of ideas connected to the main idea.

Using mind maps for visual organization offers many benefits, including:

• Clarity : Mind maps provide a clear and concise visual representation of complex information. They can help you to quickly and easily identify relationships and connections between ideas.
• Creativity : Mind mapping can help to stimulate creativity and generate new ideas. By exploring different connections and relationships between ideas, you can come up with innovative solutions to problems.
• Memory retention : Mind maps are a great tool for retaining and recalling information . Using visual and spatial cues, they help to improve the recall and retention of information.

When creating a mind map, it’s important to follow a few key tips to ensure that the map is effective and easy to understand. These tips include:

• Selecting a central idea : Choose a central idea or topic that is relevant to the information you want to organize.
• Surrounding it with related ideas : Add related ideas and concepts around the central idea, using shapes or symbols to represent each idea.
• Using visual hierarchy and groupings : Use visual hierarchy to distinguish between different levels of information. This can be achieved by using different colors, font sizes, and shapes. Group related ideas together to make it easier to understand the relationships between them.

Mind maps can be used for a variety of purposes. You can use them to brainstorm ideas, organize notes, plan projects, or explore complex topics.

Gestalt Principles & Organizing Data Visually

Gestalt principles are a set of principles that explain how we perceive visual information. These principles can be applied to the visual organization to create effective and visually appealing representations of information.

Some of the most important Gestalt principles include proximity, similarity, closure, continuity, and figure-ground. You can use these principles to organize your data more effectively.

Proximity refers to the idea that elements that are close together are perceived as related. This principle can be used to group related information together in a visual representation. For example, in a mind map, related ideas can be grouped together in the same branch or cluster.

Similarity refers to the idea that elements that are similar in appearance are perceived as related. This principle can be used to create visual hierarchy by making the most important information stand out through color, size, or shape.

Closure refers to the idea that our minds tend to complete incomplete shapes or patterns. This principle can be used to create visual representations that are easy to understand by using simple shapes and patterns.

Continuity refers to the idea that our minds tend to perceive visual elements as continuous lines or patterns. This principle can be used to create visual representations that flow naturally and are easy to follow.

Figure-Grounded

Figure-ground refers to the idea that we tend to perceive objects as either the foreground or background. This principle can be used to create visual representations that highlight the most important information by making it stand out against a neutral background.

Gestalt principles can help you create effective and visually appealing representations of information that are easy to understand and remember.

A Few Closing Words

This article has explored the best ways to organize information in a visual format. We’ve discussed how graphic organizers can be used to visually represent these types of information effectively.

Furthermore, we have discussed the benefits of using mind maps for visual organization. We’ve shown how they can help you brainstorm ideas and more. Additionally, we have explored how to apply Gestalt principles to the visual organization. This includes the use of proximity, similarity, continuity, closure, and figure-ground relationships.

In conclusion, organizing information visually is a crucial skill for conveying information effectively. By using a diagramming tool like Mindomo and Gestalt principles, you can create effective visual representations of information. They’ll help you communicate your message clearly and efficiently.

If you’d like to get started organizing your data with effective visuals, try Mindomo today.

Keep it smart, simple, and creative! The Mindomo Team

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What is a life map?

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Table of Contents

Ai, ethics & human agency, collaboration, information literacy, writing process, chapter: visual representation.

December 15, 2022

Visual Representation

Visual Representation refers to Synonymous Terms Related Concepts: Elements of Art; Principles of Design; Visual Literacy

November 19, 2020

Illustration

Illustrations are Key Concepts: Text & Intertextuality; Design Caution: This is an article stub. Please check back in a bit. We hope to write this page soon. Still, if you have something to say, let us know.

November 16, 2020

Data Visualization – Information Visualization – The Art of Visualizing Meaning For Better Decision-Making

What is Data Visualization? Data visualization refers to the practice of transforming information/data into visual representations to simplify and communicate complex information clearly and effectively. Designers strategically use colors, shapes, and symbols to bridge the gap between raw data and human understanding, empowering viewers to better interpret and analyze the information presented. Key Words: Design; ...

October 31, 2009

Hierarchical Maps

Use visual brainstorming to develop and organize your ideas. Like cluster/spider maps, hierarchical maps involve drawing a graphical representation of ideas. Unlike clustering, cluster/spider maps are chiefly concerned with analyzing relationships among ideas. When Are Hierarchical Maps Useful? Mapping is a useful organizing and revising tool when you want to see if you’ve made connections ...

Timelines & Flow Charts

Use visual brainstorming to develop and organize your ideas..

In 1765, Joseph Priestly created the now commonplace timeline. Priestly's timeline depicted the lifespan of 2000 inventors whom he considered the "most distinguished in the annals of fame."

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