Data Visualisation: A Handbook for Data Driven Design, Edition 3

Andy Kirk

Nov 2024 · SAGE Publications Limited

About this ebook

This handbook offers everything students and scholars need to master the craft of developing insightful and delightful data visualisations. Across over 300 pages packed full of useful knowledge this book is an essential reference to help readers harness the wide range of contextual, analytical, editorial, and visual ingredients that shape this complex but invigorating subject.

With an emphasis on critical thinking over technical instruction, the importance of good decision-making is placed at the centre of a proven step-by-step process. Blending conceptual, theoretical, and practical thinking, this updated edition will inspire you to elevate your ambition and inform you how to get there.

With this book and an extensive companion collection of digital resources, readers will:

· See more than 200 examples showcasing visualisation works from a diverse list of talented creators covering a spectrum of topics and techniques

· Develop a detailed understanding of 40 different chart types

· Discover the many little details that make a big difference, with four chapters dedicated to the presentation design of interactive features, annotated assistance, colouring and composition

· Learn practical tips about how to most robustly gather, examine, transform, then explore your data

· Follow online exercises to apply knowledge, build skills and develop confidence

· Get access to hundreds of curated reading references to help hone the craft.

About the author

Andy Kirk is an Independent Data Visualisation Expert delivering a range of professional services to clients around the world as a data visualisation design consultant and prolific trainer. He is a sought-after speaker, a four-times published author, the editor of visualisingdata.com, and host of the ‘Explore Explain’ video and podcast series. He’s had over a decade experience as an adjunct lecturer positions teaching data visualisation modules on Masters programmes at a range of esteemed institutes and maintains academic activity through involvement as an external research consultant. Before finding his calling with data visualisation Andy studied at Lancaster University, graduating in 1999 with a BSc (hons) in Operational Research then commenced his working career with a series of business analysis/information management roles with organisations including CIS Insurance, West Yorkshire Police and the University of Leeds. It was whilst working at the University that he had the opportunity to undertake a Masters of Research degree (MRes) to study data visualisation, graduating with distinction in 2009 and changing the course of his career.