Not all graphs tell the same story about your data. Discover the purpose of each one and when to use them, guided by our #DataAnalytics specialist.
One of the frequent inquiries from our clients regarding data visualization is the type of chart that should be used in each case when presenting reports or information within the company.
Our specialist Pablo Sánchez’s recommendation is to ask a series of questions that provide clearer guidance on the best data to use according to the scenario. He reminds us that it’s not just about putting up charts but about telling stories with the data.
Combining these recommendations with the capabilities of the SAC Visualization Gallery results in a variety of charts that can be used depending on the type of information we aim to convey.
Deviation
These charts emphasize variations between more and less. They can be used in surveys regarding sentiments (positive, neutral, negative).
Distribution
These serve to display values for a set of predetermined data and how frequently they occur. The most well-known charts in this category are histograms and cumulative curves, for instance, to indicate the distribution of age and gender in a specific region’s population.
Correlation
It shows the relationship between two or more variables that progress over time. Examples of this can be inflation versus unemployment, or income versus life expectancy.
Magnitude
It displays size comparisons. These comparisons can be absolute or relative, depending on the degree of accuracy being sought. Bars are the classic model of a graph for this type of data, although different sizes of circles or rectangles are also used nowadays. The key in this case is to indicate the figure that each element represents.
Parts of a whole
When we want to show the breakdown of a single element into its different parts. The first graph that comes to mind in this case is the pie chart, which divides a complete circle into different slices. For example, it is widely used when showing the division of the electorate among different political parties.
Ranking
The conventional choice for highlighting the winner among a list of data. Classic for making quick efficiency comparisons among all the elements. This reference comes from the sports world and the Olympic medal table, which can be applied to any business area.
In general, the expert’s recommendations are:
- No agregues más de 7 elementos a considerar o comparar
- Mantén una variedad de colores limitada y nunca colores demasiado brillantes
- Evita las formas en 3D sobre todo para los círculos y rectángulos
- Marca claramente los ejes para que tu audiencia sepa muy bien lo que se está comparando
- En cada diapositiva, evita un número mayor a 4 gráficos y organízalos a manera de narración de izquierda a derecha y de arriba hacia abajo.
If you want to learn more recommendations, visit the section of our website dedicated to Data Analytics and discover how data storytelling can help you make better business decisions.
