Our digitalized working life produces an overabundance of data of all kinds, which is becoming increasingly difficult to analyze. Thecapacityto extract meaningful information from vast data sets, enabled by dataviz tools, has become an imperative for companies, the media and investors alike. But with so many tools available, how do you choose the most appropriate visualization software? Would you like to join the world of “big data” and become an expert in data analysis? Discover our Master of Science – Data Science & Business Analysis to learn how to become a valuable and sought-after collaborator.
What is dataviz? What is its role within the company? ?
Dataviz, or data visualization, is the art of visually representing complex statistical data in the form of graphs, tables, maps or other interactive graphic elements. Its main aim is to make complex data more understandable, meaningful and accessible to a non-expert audience. It contributes to decision-making, communication, stakeholder engagement, process optimization and overall company management.
Here are the main roles of dataviz within the company:
Compréhension des données
Dataviz transforms abstract data sets into clear, intuitive visual representations. This makes it easier to understand trends, patterns and relationships within the data.
Decision support
By making data more accessible, dataviz helps decision-makers make informed decisions. By making data more accessible, dataviz helps decision-makers make informed decisions.
Communication
Dataviz is a powerful way of communicating complex information to a wide audience. It can be used to present reports, research results, financial analyses, etc., in a more convincing way than simple data tables.
Trend identification
Data visualizations make it easier to spot trends, variations and anomalies in the data. This can be particularly useful for large-scale data analysis.
Stakeholder engagement
Dataviz can be used to engage internal and external stakeholders by making data more interesting and interactive. For example, an interactive dashboard can allow users to explore the data themselves.
Process optimization
Within a company, dataviz can be used to monitor and optimize internal processes. For example, it can help track the performance of teams, logistics operations or sales.
Performance evaluation
Companies often use dataviz to measure performance and efficiency. Performance dashboards can provide a real-time overview of the company’s health.
Forecasting and planning
Data visualizations can also be used to aid forecasting and planning, helping companies to anticipate future trends and make strategic decisions.
Top 10 data visualization tools
Dashboard Public
Tableau Public is one of the most popular and accessible data visualization tools. It offers a user-friendly interface for creating interactive graphs, dynamic dashboards and impressive maps. What’s more, Tableau Public makes it easy to share your visualizations online, making it an ideal choice for professionals wishing to communicate their results.
Power BI
Developed by Microsoft, Power BI is a powerful data visualization tool that integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products such as Excel and Azure. It offers advanced reporting, interactive dashboard creation and real-time data sharing capabilities.
D3.js
D3.js is a popular JavaScript library for creating customized data visualizations. Although it requires some programming expertise, it offers complete control over the design and interactivity of your visualizations.
Tableau Desktop
Tableau Desktop is the advanced version of Tableau Public. It offers additional features, including the ability to connect to more data sources, automate updates, and create more sophisticated visualizations. However, this is a paying option.
Looker Studio
Looker Studio (formerly Google Data Studio) is Google’s free tool for creating interactive reports and dashboards using data from a variety of sources, including Google Analytics, Google Sheets and many others.
QlikView
QlikView is a business intelligence software offering advanced data visualization capabilities. It allows users to intuitively explore data and discover valuable insights.
Plotly
Plotly is an interactive data visualization library that supports many programming languages, including Python, R and JavaScript. It can be used to create dynamic graphs and customized visualizations.
Looker
Looker is a business intelligence platform offering advanced data visualization features. It enables teams to collaborate and explore data in real time.
Plotly Dash
Plotly Dash is a Python framework for creating interactive dashboards. It offers great flexibility for creating customized visualizations and designing dynamic dashboards.
Infogram
Infogram is an easy-to-use online data visualization tool for creating interactive infographics, maps and graphs. It offers a user-friendly approach for users of all skill levels.
Tips for choosing the best dataviz tool for your business
Before choosing a dataviz tool, it’s essential to understand your company’s specific needs. Identify the type of data you manage, the visualization objectives you wish to achieve, the target audience for your visualizations, and the functionalities required to meet these needs. For example, some companies may need interactive maps to represent geographic data, while others may focus on complex financial charts.
User-friendliness is a key factor to consider when choosing a dataviz tool. Users of different skill levels should be able to create visualizations without difficulty. If the learning curve is too steep, this can lead to limited adoption within the company. Test the tool’s user interface to make sure it’s intuitive and adapted to your team.
Flexibility is important because it enables your company to adapt to new needs as it grows. Choose a tool that offers a variety of visualization types (graphs, dashboards, maps, etc.) and supports different data formats. In addition, the tool should be able to integrate with other systems you already use.
In a professional environment, collaboration is often essential. Make sure that the dataviz tool you’re considering offers collaborative features, such as the ability to share visualizations with colleagues, work with several people on a project and comment on visualizations. Effective collaboration can improve the quality of the analyses and reports generated.
The costs associated with acquiring and using a dataviz tool are an important factor to take into account. Some tools are free, while others are based on a subscription model or require the purchase of a license. Make sure you understand the initial and recurring costs, as well as the added value the tool will bring to your business.
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