Data Visualization Tools and Software

Data visualization is a phrase that lately comes up with increasing frequency. Many people lack a real understanding of the exact definition and what it entails, and even fewer people understand its true potential. It is important for prospective users of this technology to grasp the concept of data visualization and understand the myriad of tools and software available in order to reap its substantial benefits.

Origins

Although some forms of information visualization have been in existence for some time, most advances have occurred in the past 30 to 40 years with the proliferation of computers and software. The first scientific approach to this concept was undertaken by John Tukey and Edward Tufte, the authors of the academic papers on the subject. Many scientists and IT professionals ignored this literature at the time, only later realizing its importance.

Tools

Data visualization tools are breaking new ground in the way people analyze information. Traditionally, creating a graph or chart is the final step in the process of analysis. When you use these tools and software, graphs and charts are created in all steps of analysis - not just at the end of the process. These tools use illustrations, graphics and other visual techniques to represent sets of information. Data visualization techniques often help make information easier to understand, especially when the database is large or abstract.

The best software

Good data visualization software offers presentations that are stylish and attractive. There are several traditional methods used to visualize data, such as histograms, pie charts and bar graphs. Graphs that are visually appealing cannot support a presentation alone; they have to be accurate. Many online software applications offer free and attractive data solutions. The most popular of these include TableauSoftware.com, Visual.ly and Dundas.com.

Advantages

Data visualization software signifies viewing an issue in a different way, thus not seeing the same boring graph or report. This system involves quick operation and impulsive predictions without time-consuming execution and learning session. Data visualization software increases the rapidity of information integration by offering visual examination. Authentic visualization assists in visual judgment; the human brain can process information from a picture more quickly than it can from a table of numeric data. Features, outliers and patterns appear in a manner that is very different from columns and rows.

Data visualization offers interactive information examination. When you visualize and work with information on an interactive basis, you discover repetitive trends and recognize outliers. This software gives you the ability to work with your information directly, alternating between views seamlessly. A finely-crafted tool works with diagnostic analysis by way of simple-to-utilize interfaces. It lets you assemble, classify, arrange and collect data while determining newly established fields.