Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
• Aim for the highest signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as possible in your slides. In the
case of charts and graphs, the signal is the concrete message we are trying to
show—it's the data in its clearest form. Visual noise consists of anything that gets in
the way of seeing the data—the signal—in the most direct, clearest way possible.
• Simplicity is a fundamental tenet in all aspects of design and communication. It is
especially important concerning the creation and display of quantitative information.
You can achieve it in the design of effective charts, graphs, and tables by
remembering three fundamental principles: restrain, reduce, emphasize.
• Don't confuse slides with documents. If you have deep and complex data that is
absolutely necessary for your audience to see, then create handouts that they can
refer to later. If you are showing trends or simple, straightforward comparisons of
data, then projected slides will work best.
• There are many different ways to display data. Choose the chart or graph type that
works best for your information with the goal of making it as clear as possible.
Wagasa images on the last page of each chapter courtesy of Mr. Kotaro Nishibori,
Hiyoshiya Co., Ltd. in Kyoto, Japan.
www.wagasa.com
