The Focus Perspective in Data Visualization
Data visualization involves taking information and converting it into a visual context using visual elements like maps and graphs. The purpose of data visualization is to make both big and small data easy to understand (Unwin, 2020). Additionally, visualization helps individuals to detect patterns and trends presented in a group of data. The angle, framing, and focus perspectives are useful as they help shape editorial thinking (Kirk, 2016. In my opinion, the focus perspective is vital in data visualization. The focus perspective is all about the features a person presenting data wants to draw attention to.
I chose the focus perspective because in my opinion, it helps fulfill the purpose of data visualization. For instance, when visualizing data, the first thing to consider is what you want to communicate to a particular audience. This helps in choosing the right visuals that will pass the intended message in a simple manner; therefore, focus helps you fulfill this. For example, consider employees of an organization as the audience for a visualized presentation. The focus perspective will help you draw attention of how some important areas like customer service in the organization are doing, thus ensuring the audience understands what needs improvement based on the visualization.
Additionally, other data presentation methods, especially spreadsheets presenting statistical data may carry a lot of information, including irrelevant for a given scenario, making it difficult for uninformed audience to understand. Another reason why I find the focus perspective is to ensure only important data is presented to an audience and in a simple way. Focus helps eliminate unnecessary information that might data ambiguous and difficult for a general group to understand. When vital information is visualized, any person can understand the aim of the data and patterns presented at a glance.
References
Kirk, A. (2016).Data Visualization: A Handbook for Data-Driven Design.
Unwin, A. (2020). Why is Data Visualization Important? What is Important in Data Visualization?