Communicating complex data with graphics is not simple; in fact, I think it’s more art than science. That means that no matter how hard some people try, they just don’t have the creative capacity to paint a data-driven masterpiece.
This map, published by Charles Joseph Minard in 1869 illustrating Napoleon’s ill-fated campaign in Russia is probably the most well-regarded example of successful information charting. Take a moment to study the full size version of this masterpiece and think about how amazing it is that such a simple graphic can so powerfully convey this depth of information:
Charles Minard's flow map of Napoleon's March
That image is simple, informative and compelling. Given that when most of us try to come up with a similar masterpiece we end up looking more like a paint-by-number version of the Mona Lisa than the real thing, how can we ever hope to succeed?
Well, one of the first things to realise is that you don’t have to create a masterpiece every time in order to be effective, and you can get better with time. Let your imagination run a bit wild, don’t be afraid to take chances, and continue the process of improvement. Remember the old joke about the tourist lost in New York city who, when he asked the policeman how to get to Carnegie Hall was told, “Practice, practice, practice!”
Here’s a great tip: Just like in painting or sculpting, it’s important to use the right tool for the right job, and you have a great many simple tools already available.
Take everyday charts. for example. There are a lot of simple chart styles available, and it turns out that simply selecting the right format for your data goes a long way to making it not only impactful, but clear and useful.
Andrew Abela and the folks at The Extreme Presentation Method have some great ways to get you on the right track, including this simple chart that can help you choose the right chart:
The Extreme Presentation(tm) Method - Chart Chooser
What lesson that you’ve learned has had the greatest impact on your ability to communicate data effectively?
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