Values That Shape My Data Visualization

Simplifying the complex and communicating the data stories in an engaging manner is the responsibility of the data storyteller - which can be anyone presenting data driven insights, be it a data analyst, a data journalist or a BI Specialist. This is a new industry emerging very quickly, and it puts the onus on the storytellers in the industry to lead with integrity follow ethical visualization practices and educate their audience. This shapes the way data is interpreted, presented, and ultimately used to inform decisions.

Here are my personal values that act as the foundation of my data storytelling approach:

#1 - Leadership With Purpose

Data visualization is not just about creating charts and graphs; it’s about leading the conversation and driving change through clear, impactful communication. Leadership with purpose means ensuring that the visualizations I create are not only aesthetically appealing but also meaningful and aligned with the goals of the business or project. Every design choice, from color palettes to chart types, is made with intention, ensuring that the message is delivered effectively and purposefully.

#2 - Empowerment With Data

Data has the power to inspire action and drive informed decisions. My goal is to empower others by presenting data in a way that is accessible and actionable. Whether through an interactive dashboard or a static infographic, I strive to make data easy to understand, providing the tools needed for stakeholders to take the next step confidently. By focusing on simplicity and clarity, I help users see the potential of the data and make data-driven decisions with ease.

#3 - Creativity For Impact

Designing with creativity isn't just about making data look good; it’s about transforming complex information into something that resonates with the audience. I believe that creativity is key to making data memorable and impactful. Whether it’s through the use of engaging visual elements, intuitive layouts, or dynamic interactivity, creative design enhances the storytelling power of data. The impact of a well-designed visualization is far greater when it grabs attention and encourages action.

#4 - Simplifying The Complex

One of the greatest challenges in data visualization is taking complex datasets and making them understandable. Given that this is a newer field, many people, even at higher levels of management, do not possess data literacy. Going back to my original point, this puts the onus of the data storyteller, to simply this complex data and explain it in a way that is easy to understand for their audience, without overwhelming them with too much detail. By focusing on simplicity, I aim to distill the essence of the data, eliminating unnecessary clutter and presenting the most important insights in a straightforward manner.

#5 - Investigative Curiosity

This. This in my opinion is the most important of all as I understand that my audience will not necessarily know what insights they are missing out on, as they are not the ones reviewing the data. I am.

At the heart of every great data visualization is a deep curiosity about the story behind the numbers. Data is not just a collection of facts; it is an opportunity to uncover insights that drive decisions and spark innovation. This value reflects my commitment to constantly questioning the data, exploring new angles, and digging deeper to find patterns, outliers and trends that might otherwise be missed. Investigative curiosity drives me to look beyond the surface and create visualizations that uncover meaningful insights.

These values—Leadership with Purpose, Empowerment with Data, Creativity for Impact, Simplifying the Complex, and Investigative Curiosity—are not just guiding principles for creating data visualizations but also for creating an impact with the designs I produce. By embracing these values, I ensure that my work not only looks great but also serves its true purpose: to make data more understandable, accessible, and actionable for those who need it most.