Data visualization in data analytics transforms raw data into visual representation, making complex information accessible. This practice includes graphics, charts, plots, infographics, and animations to interpret and communicate data. Data visualization allows for a clear understanding of trends, patterns, and insights that raw data alone might not show. Powerful visualization doesn’t just make data aesthetically pleasing—it reveals connections.
According to Gartner, a leading research and advisory firm, data and analytics “refers to the ways organizations manage data to support all its uses, and analyze data to improve decisions, business processes and outcomes, such as discovering new business risks, challenges and opportunities.” The goal is to enable businesses to make informed decisions based on data-driven evidence.
Within this context, data visualization is a vital business tool. In programs like the University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Data Analytics, students learn the function and value of different data analytics applications in business, including the importance of data visualization.
Why Data Visualization Matters
Data analytics is all about clear communication. Spreadsheets filled with numbers, while essential for data storage, can be overwhelming. This is where data visualization shines. By converting data into visual representations like charts, graphs, and infographics, visualization offers a more accessible and engaging format for both technical and non-technical audiences. This approach has a few advantages:
- Enhanced clarity. Complex relationships within data come to life through visual representations. Trends become obvious, outliers stand out, and comparisons become clear.
- Sharper storytelling. Data visualization allows analysts to create a compelling story with the data. By highlighting trends and insights through visuals, complex stories can become apparent.
- Improved decision-making. Visualizations allow stakeholders to make informed decisions. By understanding the data’s message through visuals, users can confidently chart a course of action.
Professionals can use various data visualization techniques to unlock the power of data. Some examples include:
Bar Charts
While bar charts (also known as bar graphs) are popular because of their simplicity, they can be tricky to handle with a large number of categories. Similar to pie charts, they might not be the best choice for complex datasets. With a bar chart, one axis displays the categories, while the other shows a measurement. The length of each bar reflects how much each category scores on that measurement. The challenge arises when there are too many categories—labeling them can become cluttered and difficult to understand.
Area Charts
Like line graphs with shaded regions, area charts showcase how quantities change over time. The shaded area reflects the total value. Stacked versions effectively compare multiple data series on the same chart, making them ideal for visualizing how parts contribute to a whole.
Gantt Charts
Gantt charts are popular with project management timelines. The format is essentially a calendar flipped sideways: tasks on the left, time on the bottom. Each task gets a bar showing how long it takes to finish. This clarity helps everyone on the project, from managers to team members, see deadlines and keep things on track.
Build Visualization Skills Online in UMSV’s Business Data Analytics Program
UMSV understands the important role of data visualization in shaping successful data analysts and includes a Data Visualization course in its online BS in Business Data Analytics program. This course gives students the skills and expertise to confidently create data visualizations all audiences can understand.
The course goes beyond simply learning about different chart types. Students will learn the core principles behind effective data visualization, including how to clearly and concisely represent data and leverage design principles to create visually appealing graphics. This ensures their visualizations not only look good but also communicate the intended message.
Hands-on experience is also a key component. Students experiment with popular data visualization tools and libraries, allowing them to translate their newfound knowledge into real-world uses. By building interactive and engaging visualizations, they can gain the confidence to share insights with any audience.
Learn more about UMSV’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics program.
