Data Visualisation
A Handbook for Data Driven Design
- Andy Kirk - Freelance data visualisation specialist and trainer
One of the "six best books for data geeks" - Financial Times
Winner of the "Printed Information Resource 2020" award from the Knowledge & Information Management Group, part of The Chartered Association of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP)
With over 200 images and extensive how-to and how-not-to examples, this new edition has everything students and scholars need to understand and create effective data visualisations.
Combining ‘how to think’ instruction with a ‘how to produce’ mentality, this book takes readers step-by-step through analysing, designing, and curating information into useful, impactful tools of communication.
With this book and its extensive collection of online support, readers can:
- Decide what visualisations work best for their data and their audience using the chart gallery
- See data visualisation in action and learn the tools to try it themselves
- Follow online checklists, tutorials, and exercises to build skills and confidence
- Get advice from the UK’s leading data visualisation trainer on everything from getting started to honing the craft.
Many books focus on using software to visualise data but fewer consider good design. Data Visualisation addresses this in an inherently practical way. This is a much needed book which recognises and clarifies the process of designing excellent graphics.
What do we actually mean when we talk about Data Visualisation? How do we 'do it’? How can we ensure our research using Data Visualisation is effective and ethical? The answers are all here in this inspirational and invaluable guide.
Everything I loved in the first edition of this valuable book has been incorporated into the second, including Kirk’s typology of data visualisation and masses of visual examples, but with more precise written arguments. This volume continues to fill the gap between overwhelming data and the visualisations that can facilitate understanding.
In this second edition, Andy adds relevant content to what was already a fantastic framework for learning the fundamentals of data visualization, all with acute and critical eyes. As an educator, I find it an invaluable resource to students and myself alike.
While most works in this space focus on data journalism, scientific visualisations or other specialist audiences, this book targets decision makers and helps with everything from initial concepts and data preparation to editorial layouts. A refreshing angle and a compelling read.
This was a great text for my Data Visualization course, to teach the design side of things and considerations for such.
