651: The Intentional Use of Color in Data Communication
Feb 7, 2023
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Data visualization expert Kate Strachnyi discusses the intentional use of color in data communication with host Jon Krohn. They cover topics like color inclusivity, tips for color selection in data visuals, respecting cultural nuances, and the best tools for data visualization.
Selecting color intentionally enhances data storytelling and interpretation.
Considering cultural differences and accessibility is crucial in color choice for inclusivity.
Limiting colors in visualizations improves clarity and coherence of data presentations.
Deep dives
Importance of Intentional Use of Color in Data Visualization
Using color intentionally in data visualization is crucial for effective communication. Kate Strashney emphasizes the significance of selecting the right color scheme based on its meaning and cultural implications. By understanding the audience and the context of the data being presented, one can enhance the visual storytelling process. Starting with grayscale and then strategically incorporating color to highlight key data points can significantly improve data interpretation.
Considerations for Cultural Understanding and Accessibility
In data visualization, considering cultural differences and accessibility is paramount. Colors can have varying meanings across different cultures, so it's essential to research or consult with the audience to ensure colors are well-received. Additionally, addressing color blindness and preparing for grayscale printing or viewing scenarios is crucial for creating inclusive and comprehensible visualizations.
Limiting Color Usage and Blending Visualizations
To prevent overwhelming viewers, limiting the number of colors used in a visualization is key. Rather than using multiple colors for numerous categories, focusing on a few distinct colors related to the main aspects of the data can enhance clarity. When blending multiple visualizations together, maintaining consistency in color coding and ensuring seamless transitions between visuals can help create a coherent and impactful data presentation.
Effective Data Storytelling with Visualizations
When presenting data visualizations, focusing on viewer needs and key questions is crucial. By starting with understanding the audience's interests and questions, creating visuals that answer those queries becomes more effective. Ensuring consistency in color usage across multiple charts is essential to avoid confusion and convey information clearly. By providing answers to specific questions and using visualizations to support the narrative, data storytelling can be impactful.
Advancements in AI Image Generation and Tools for Data Visualization
The podcast episode discusses the rise of AI-generated visuals in 2022, highlighting tools like Canva's text-to-image feature. The ability to generate images based on natural language prompts offers creative opportunities for content creation. Additionally, recommendations are shared for data visualization tools like Data Wrapper and Flourish Studio, emphasizing the importance of color consistency and innovative chart types like racing bar charts and Sankey diagrams.
Data visualizations, color theories and color inclusivity: In this episode, Kate Strachnyi and host Jon Krohn discuss how color can make or break your data visuals, ways to make your charts and graphs more inclusive through color, and how Kate developed the tools and techniques to nail color for your data stories in her latest book, ColorWise: A Data Storyteller’s Guide to the Intentional Use of Color.
In this episode you will learn: • What a “data storyteller” is [11:01] • Why color use should always be intentional [12:52] • Is color always necessary in data visualization? [29:41] • Color selection tips for your data visuals [31:19] • Three-color scales [34:54] • How to respect individual cultures in the color choices you make [38:25] • Best tools for data visualization [54:35]