Create Better Visualizations

Become better at creating data visualizations with one simple rule.

Today, I will discuss the data-ink ratio so that you start to create better graphs in the future. I will also provide you with an example that we can work through together.

My students are currently learning about the power of communication and how to effectively communicate with data. They are currently reading one of my favorite books, Storytelling with Data by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic.

The book is filled with great tips and is a must read for anyone communicating data to diverse audiences. If I had to pick one takeaway from the book that often comes up with students studying economics and business it would be the Data-Ink Ratio.

Data-Ink Ratio

Edward Tufte, a renowned author in the field of data visualization, introduced the concept of the data-ink ratio. When creating a chart, evaluate whether all elements in a chart are required. Make sure to eliminate non-essential components from a chart.

With this message you will:

• Clear message: having only the necessary elements will make your message clearer and easier to consume by your audience.

• Save time: not only will the readers get the message quicker, but you as the creator will save time avoiding confused users.

• Save space: Data-ink optimized charts occupy less space and are easier to resize.

Declutter

Edward Tufte, in his book, The Visual Display of Quantitative Information, states the two principles to declutter your graphs for a better data-ink ratio.

1. Erase non-data-ink.
   Remove accessory elements that don’t add information. In this category we have gridlines, colors without meaning or purpose, 3d effects, annotations that don’t add to the chart’s message, etc.

2. Erase redundant data-ink.
   When we create a chart, sometimes we try to pack more information than necessary or the software as default adds extra elements. Check for additional data information that can be removed. In this category we have unnecessary legends, labels, excessive information unrelated to the chart’s message, and others.

Example

In the video we go from this graph. Data Source https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?157447-Northern-Kentucky-University

Watch the video for more details.