What is Data Visualisation
Data visualisation is the representation of information in the form of a chart, diagram or image. Viewing data and information in a graphic format can make it easier for our brains to understand and absorb the information.
Data visualisation can be used in almost any field or profession. Data is everywhere, and it is more accessible than ever. We are so lucky to be able to view and download information, data and statistics about almost any topic we can think of.
It is both fascinating and beautiful to explore data visually.
HOW IS DATA VISUALISATION USEFUL FOR ARCHITECTS?
An understanding in data visualisation can be a great help to architects, who have a huge responsibility in communication. Whether you are communicating with a client, stakeholder, contractor or anyone else in the field, clear communication is extremely important.
As a student, during your course you will constantly be communicating your ideas, designs, concepts, research and so on. Data visualisation can help you communicate and understand your audience to ensure you are telling an effective story.
Data visualisation can be used to demonstrate data such as urban information, data on cities, locations, buildings, climate, construction and so much more.
Data visualisation can also be used to explore and communicate site information, analysis and research.
Let’s throw some ideas out there. You could use data visualisation for…
- Flood information on a site
- Population density in a city
- Housing density in a location
- Transport / traffic concentration and flows
- Topography of a site relating to other factors
- Different use classes in a city/location
- Zones, landscape, greenery
- Emissions in different cities
There are so many more… but you get the idea!
We have a Pinterest board dedicated to both Data Visualisation and Mapping Techniques, make sure you check them out.
EXAMPLES OF DATA VISUALISATION
COURSES
I recently completed the Domestika course Data Visualisation and Information Design. The course explores the field of data visualisation, and its potential. The teacher, Federica Fragapane demonstrates the relationship between information design and its audience. Federica has worked with companies such as Google, United Nations, BBC and Scientific American to create wonderful visualisations on a vast breadth of topics.
In the course Federica takes you through the process from start to finish. First you select your topic, then explore the different places you can collect data. From there you start to develop your design, from data to sketching to adobe illustrator.
This is a wonderful and inspiring course for anyone interested in Data Visualisation, I would highly recommend.
DATA VISUALISATION BOOKS
Below are a selection of books that beautifully demonstrate data visualisation.
RESOURCES
For Data Visualisation inspiration:
For Data:
CONCLUSION
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