Reflections on Visualization for Broad Audiences

Abstract

Visualizations intended for broad audiences present challenges and potential not typically seen in the more typical situation of creating visualizations through a close collaboration with a domain expert who is already motivated to understand the data through the visualization. In contrast to the explorative character of the process where visualization is used to gain a better understanding of new data within a research workflow, we will focus here on the development and design of fine-tuned visualizations or tools for communication purposes. More specifically, we define visualization for broad audiences as creating visualizations or visualization tools intended for heterogeneous audiences (who may have domain knowledge but differing abilities), distinct audience groups (domain experts in different part of a process who have different goals), large groups of collaborating experts, or the general public (who may have neither domain knowledge nor inherent motivation). Challenges of creating visualizations for broad audiences include defining the characteristics and goals of the audience, engaging those without an inherent motivation to explore the data, and harnessing the techniques of storytelling to create an effective and satisfying communication. This chapter includes some reflections on basic ideas and concepts to address these challenges. More practical examples of successful projects carried out within different settings are presented in the following chaps. 17, 18, 19 and 20. The final chap. 21 discusses current challenges and open issues.