Data visualization is important because it helps get vast amounts of information quickly and easily. There are many analytical tools in which we can present data – various graphs, tables, bars, charts, etc. This variety is overwhelming; however, determining the correct diagram for a business project is crucial because data can be represented in a way that would not make any sense. Moreover, wrong data visualization can lead to misunderstandings and making inadequate decisions based on this information.
It must be determined what kind of message is conveyed to the audience when choosing a chart from a wide variety. For example, if there are two or more options to choose from that will lead the project to the different outcomes, Steering Committee will need to see a comparison between them. There are usually five basic types of business messages – comparison, distribution, the breakup of a whole, relationship, and trends (Lock, 2017). All of these messages are conveyed better by different types of charts.
For comparison purposes, column charts, line charts, bar charts, and scatter plots can be used. Column and bar charts are very alike; they show data across multiple categories in absolute and relative values. Line charts are the most popular because they can display changing values over time and compare trends in different types. When it is not easy to see the correlation in data, scatter plots can be used, as they show numerical values both along X and Y (Evergreen, 2019). Moreover, line charts work the best with trends because they offer the most visible temporary change representation.
To exhibit the data distribution over categories, distribution charts, histograms, scatter plots, and KDE plots can be used. Hysterograms and KDE plots show the frequency with which something arises or happens. If large data sets need to be analyzed, the best option will be a scatter plot. Typical distribution charts show the dispersal of data variables over time (Midway, 2020). In addition, scatter plots and line charts can help visualize the relationship between variables, revealing the connection between various processes.
Pie charts and stacked bar charts effectively display gathered data as part of the whole. A pie chart shows what sections exist in the object and presents their percentage at the given time. A stacked bar chart can add a comparative element to the breakdown or display the structural changes over time (Evergreen, 2019). These charts effectively show the project’s focus by looking at the proportions that different issues take.
The Steering Committee goal is to help the project manager remove some obstructions and ensure that project is aligned with the strategy. They have to be updated on critical strategic issues and get an analytical picture of the project development process. Visualizing data accurately is a key to understanding the situation and making fast, effective decisions. That is why data should be presented appropriately according to the given message type.
References
Evergreen, S. D. (2019). Effective data visualization: The right chart for the right data. SAGE publications.
Lock, D. (2017). The essentials of project management. Routledge.
Midway, S. R. (2020). Principles of effective data visualization.Patterns, 1(9), 1-7.