Setting the Purpose and Identifying Key Factors - Data Visualization: A Successful Design Process - page 23

Setting the Purpose and
Identifying Key Factors
Chapter 1 , Context of Data Visualization , gave us some initial idea about the definition,
context, and relevance of data visualization. We learned about the intersection that
exists between art and science and outlined the significance of visual perception.
We also discussed the proposed value of a data visualization methodology and,
ahead of our design process, learned about some key objectives we need to bear in
mind throughout our work.
In this second chapter, we start the design methodology with the vital task of
identifying the purpose of your visualization.
Before you undertake any design work, you have to be clear about the motivation
behind a project's inception. This involves identifying who it is for and what needs
you are trying to fulfill; this has a big influence on the scope of your work.
The second aspect of purpose will take a close look at the intention behind your
project and how you define the visualization's function and tone. Once again, we
tackle this now so that we can start to shape our decision-making at the earliest
possible opportunity.
We then look at identifying and assessing the impact of the additional key factors
that will have an effect on your project. This will help you surface all the restrictions,
characteristics, and requirements surrounding your project that will determine how
you tackle it.
Finally, we will consider in more depth a particularly influential matter: the skills,
knowledge, and general capabilities that are necessary to accomplish an effective
visualization solution.