10 Oct, 2018

Data visualisation is a powerful tool that you can use to transform the way your users consume data. An MIT study proved that the human brain can process images in as fast as 13 milliseconds!! You can tap into this behaviour to make your data-dense financial reports immersive and impactful.

What does good data visualisation comprise of?

Some might say, ease of comprehension and good understanding of design aesthetic. Sure, but these factors make for only functional visual data. Consider these three key questions for impactful data visualisations.

How does your user see it?

Clever data visualisations are designed to capture your user’s attention. Using good design principles like typography, colour, and use of space, make smart data visualisations.

The Tata Consultancy Services Annual Report employs visual elements that capture a user’s attention.

How does it impact your user?

The human brain absorbs patterns. It is also sensitive to things that break these patterns. Using uncommon or unconventional visual elements can make your financial data more impactful. But, when experimenting with unique elements, keep in mind that you put purpose before creativity.

The Zee Entertainment Annual Report, Extraordinary Together uses unconventional visual elements to represent data.

How well does is respond to your user’s inspection?

With the shift to dynamic visualisations from static ones, a lot has changed. Now users can adjust variables and apply filters to the data. While designing your visualisations pre-empt the questions your user will have. Make sure your visualisation anticipates and answers these questions.

Here is an example of such data visualisation.