When Big Data Meets Data Visualization: How to Make Your Data Actionable

Data scientists can use data visualizations to make their information more actionable. Illustrations, graphs, charts and spreadsheets can turn dull reports into something illuminating, where it’s easier to gather insight and actionable results. Fortunately, modern technology — ranging from laptops to smartphones — has a variety of available applications that make visualizations easier than ever. As a result, society is growing increasingly familiar with data visualization and its beneficial impact on data analysis and actionability. Best Methods to Depict Various Data. The power of analysis is largely contingent on the presentation of data. The best forms of data visualization convey useful insights, while poor efforts can distract from actionable insight. One good practice to implement is the use of round numbers. For example, instead of having 10,000,000 and 15,000,000 on a graph’s y-axis, use 10 and 15 instead, while clarifying beside those numbers that it’s in millions. It’s a practical strategy that makes the data quicker to understand, increasing its actionable potential Additionally, it’s always prudent to provide context for data, comparing metrics with set goals. Color-coded metrics are a great way to concisely showcase when values are over a goal (green), short of that goal (red) or somewhere in between (yellow).