As businesses become increasingly reliant on data to inform decisions, data displays have become an important part of many organizations’ processes. Data displays are used to communicate findings to stakeholders, inform strategies, and facilitate collaboration. With so many data display options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Below are some factors to consider when selecting a data display.
1. Objective
Before selecting a data display, consider the objective of the data display. Different data displays are better suited for different purposes. For instance, a bar graph is better for comparing values against one another, while a line graph can be used to track changes over time. If the goal of the data display is to help stakeholders make decisions, then a dashboard may be the best choice. It is important to consider the specific purpose of the data display in order to select the best option.
2. Audience
The audience is an important factor to consider when selecting a data display. Different types of data displays are better suited for different audiences. For example, if the audience is non-technical, then a simple chart or graph may be the best option. On the other hand, if the audience is familiar with data analysis, then a more complex data display such as a heat map or a scatter plot may be better. It is important to consider the audience when choosing a data display in order to ensure the data is presented in a way that is easily understood.
3. Data Source
The data source is another important consideration when selecting a data display. Depending on the data source, some data displays may be more appropriate than others. For instance, if the data source is a survey, then a pie chart may be the best option. On the other hand, if the data source is a database, then a table may be more appropriate. It is important to consider the data source in order to select the most suitable data display.
4. Resources
When selecting a data display, it is important to consider the resources available. Depending on the resources available, some data displays may be more suitable than others. For instance, if there are limited resources, then a simple chart or graph may be the best option. On the other hand, if there are more resources available, then a more complex data display such as a heat map or a scatter plot may be better. It is important to consider the resources available in order to select the most suitable data display.
5. Design
The design of the data display is also an important consideration. When selecting a data display, it is important to consider how the data will be presented. Different types of data displays have different design elements, such as colors, fonts, and layout. For instance, if the goal is to communicate the data in a visually appealing way, then a chart or graph with a more modern design may be the best option. On the other hand, if the goal is to communicate the data in a simple and straightforward way, then a table may be more appropriate. It is important to consider the design of the data display in order to select the best option.
When selecting a data display, there are several factors to consider, such as the objective, audience, data source, resources, and design. It is important to consider these factors in order to select the most suitable data display for the task at hand. By taking the time to consider each of these factors, businesses can ensure they are selecting the best data display for their needs.
