Data visualization trends in 2021
The idea of turning data into graphics also called data visualization has changed over time. Its evolution and impact are so great that it has transformed the meaning of data itself.
Today big data has provided massive amounts of data sets from a variety of data sources that have delivered overwhelming pieces of information. Information visualization can pare down data into pie charts, bar charts, scatter plots, and other graphics to be easily digested.
Its applications have changed the way data is viewed and understood. In 2020 the impact of the current global health crisis has been better understood with the help of data visualization tools that have provided visuals of new infections, fatalities, recoveries, and other stats.
So, what is data visualization? It is the process of creating graphical representations of information and data. By using visual elements like charts, graphs, and maps, data visualization tools provide an accessible way to see and understand trends, outliers, and patterns in data.
With the evolution of cognitive frameworks and multidimensional imaging and intelligence, data visualization tools are enabling users to consume large amounts of complex data.
As a modern option for visual communication, effective data visualization aids businesses in consolidating data sources, identifying core aspects impacting results, and forecasting future trends and patterns. Corporations can make better decisions and smarter investments using information graphics. Let’s take a look at some data visualization trends for 2021.
Smart devices
Data from smart traffic systems, automobiles with augmented reality, and other smart platforms have begun to overlap our physical surroundings and are allowing for more data visualization at a faster pace.
As an example, smart traffic systems can help predict some traffic problems before the major commute begins and can influence pattern changes to prevent this. Augmented reality in automobiles is improving safety by providing key information for drivers and alerting them of possible risks.
Smart devices not only contribute to the increase in data collection but they also make it necessary to analyze it. With smart devices transmitting increasing amounts of data at a faster pace, the effectiveness of data will also increase.
Data visualization will help detect abnormalities, trends, and spikes in data transmitted by smart devices. These devices will continue to infiltrate various facets of life and will continue to impact how data is collected, analyzed, and transmitted.
Data storytelling
Publishers have long been cognizant of the power of storytelling in data analysis. Data storytelling is the practice of building a sound narrative around data sets and their accompanying visualizations.
This method of presenting data is a great way to help convey the meaning of data powerfully and compellingly. Companies can now do more with their data because they understand it better. Data storytelling provides insights that put business decision-makers in the driver’s seat.
Data storytelling will only grow in the future because instead of discussing what happened, it allows decision-makers to focus on what will happen, and how to make sure those events are in their favor. Good data visualization lends itself naturally to a narrative and is the reason why data storytelling will define the future of data.
Real-time data visualization
Visualizing data in real-time has become a necessity rather than an option for data scientists and business users today. Given the large data sets that are available, real-time data visualization is the best way for correlations and analysis to be up to date.
As a recent example of the impact of real-time data visualization, the Johns Hopkins University dashboard has been used in 2020 to visualize the spread of the ongoing pandemic. This type of visualization has allowed officials to identify emerging hotspots and employ available resources in real-time.
Among the greatest advantages of real-time data visualization is that it can expedite the entire decision-making process. As data visual representation tools become more advanced, real-time capabilities will follow suit. This will lead to new insights and better decision making.
Studies have found that productive uses of data visualizations can reduce meeting times by up to 24%. Presenting data in a visual format helps organize information into an easily digestible format and also convey data as a story that highlights trends, anomalies, and other information.
With the amount of data increasing rapidly, visualizations are essential to understanding the magnitude of rows of data being generated daily.
