109: How to Become a Data Visualization Designer & a Creative Data Analyst w/ Alli Torban
May 8, 2024
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Alli Torban, a data information designer, shares her journey from data analyst to teaching visualization. She discusses the importance of data literacy, tool mastery, and building a portfolio with personal projects. Topics include transitioning to freelance work, advice for aspiring data viz designers, and unlocking creativity with inspiration and prompts.
Data visualization designers need strong data skills and impactful portfolios for success.
Creativity is crucial in data visualization, requiring constant innovation to solve problems effectively.
Deep dives
Ali Torbin: Transition from Data Analyst to Data Visualization Designer
Ali Torbin, a leading data visualization designer, shares her journey from being a data analyst to venturing into the world of data visualization. Despite starting with basic data analysis tasks, Ali felt unfulfilled and sought more, leading her to pursue data visualization. She networked by starting her own podcast to learn, create a portfolio, and apply for jobs successfully. This unconventional networking approach helped her gain expertise and secure a job in information design.
Embracing Creativity in Data Visualization
Ali emphasizes the importance of creativity in data visualization, debunking the myth that creativity is solely for artists. She introduces the concept of 'mini C,' 'little C,' and 'pro C' creative acts, emphasizing that creativity is about generating new ideas to solve problems ethically. By taking small creative steps in visualization projects and focusing on impact and fulfillment, individuals can enhance their design work and effectively stand out in the field.
The Role of Information Designers in Data Visualization
Ali sheds light on the role of information designers in creating visual narratives that go beyond basic charts. She discusses the importance of explanatory data visualizations that polish and choose suitable chart types to effectively communicate a specific message or story to diverse audiences. Additionally, Ali shares insights on how information designers merge art and data to engage viewers with customized visuals.
Practical Strategies for Aspiring Data Visualization Designers
Ali offers practical advice for aspiring data visualization designers, emphasizing the significance of honing data skills, learning essential tools like Tableau and Figma, and building a dynamic portfolio. By employing the CTR prompt - Conflict, Timeliness, Resolution - individuals can craft compelling visualizations that resonate with audiences by addressing observational conflicts, timeliness, and resolutions effectively.
This episode features Alli Torban, a leading data information designer, sharing her career journey from a data analyst to teaching data visualization to companies like Google and Moderna.
Alli advises on becoming a data viz designer, emphasizing the significance of data literacy, tool mastery, and building a portfolio with personal projects.
(08:16) Alli's Transition to Freelance and Starting Her Own Company
(17:40) Advice for Aspiring Data Visualization Designers
(21:42) Unlocking Creativity with Practical Inspiration and Prompts
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