#datameaning

Data Visualization and Creative Reporting help me put data together and create a design and a story. In this course I was able to present complex results to wide range of audience across an organization or client. This class focused on using dashboards that include web-base and desktop widgets and stand- alone software applications. Data could be boring for any audience but creating a design with colors and meaning can help the decision makers understand what they need to do to decrease expensive or increase marketing ideas.  

Every week the teacher took us step by step on how to create or analyze a visual piece with data. First we had to learn about design and color on infographics. Then we had to watch a movie and collect data from the story and create a couple of designs that included, lines, graph and map pertaining the story line. I had a lot of fun with this assignment because I was able to include my family while I was completing homework. I did not receive the best grade but at the end I understood what needed to be completed to deliver a story.

One of my favorite assignment was the infographic I had to create for one of the discussions during the month. I have a website I’ve been working on that helps families who relocate to Center Florida www.MyOFR.info.  I decided to create an infographic that gives new residents quality facts to get to know the City of Orlando. My plans is to improve the design and use it on a blog for the website. I did enjoyed researching for data and putting it all together.

Another assignment I enjoyed was when we had to create a dashboard for a superhero to help them with a task they needed help with. I chose “Ironman” he is one of my favorite Marvel characters in all the movies. I do like Captain America as well but for this assignment I decided to help Ironman. To prepare for this creation I watched some of the cartoons shows and sitcoms to help me figure out the best data that will suit him.  After analyzing I decided to create a few pivot table to help gather the data I eventually wanted in the dashboard.  This the screen shot you will see I’ve focused on creating a pivots News, Country, City, Criminals and IP Address.

Here are the reasons I choose these  

News – This will help Ironman stay connected with worldwide new around the globe.

Country & City  – The locations the criminal was located.

Criminals –  A list of villains that Ironman had problems with in the past and now currently.

IP Address – A way to track all types of communication and devices that were used.

After I gathered the data I put all the dashboard together.  In this dashboard you can see that I added his colors for branding and that fits the scenario. I’ve added different kinds of visualization like charts, graphs and tables to help relate the data to the superhero in a quick and efficient way. My goals were to help the superhero glance the dashboard and immediately make decisions based on the current situation and contact the Avengers if needed.

These assignments put everything in perspective. They explained how gathering data can be boring and meaningful if you do not used the correct colors, graphs, flowcharts, line into the right visualization. Many companies want to learn about their data but most importantly they want to know what does it mean toward their campaign and revenue growth. When you used a colorful visualization it helps connect the dots together to help the decision maker understand what’s going on and what steps need to be taken.