Data Visualisation: A Handbook for Data Driven Design

by Andy Kirk

Overview

This handbook offers everything students and scholars need to master the craft of developing insightful and delightful data visualisations. Across over 300 pages packed full of useful knowledge this book is an essential reference to help readers harness the wide range of contextual, analytical, editorial, and visual ingredients that shape this complex but invigorating subject.

With an emphasis on critical thinking over technical instruction, the importance of good decision-making is placed at the centre of a proven step-by-step process. Blending conceptual, theoretical, and practical thinking, this updated edition will inspire you to elevate your ambition and inform you how to get there.

With this book and an extensive companion collection of digital resources, readers will:

· See more than 200 examples showcasing visualisation works from a diverse list of talented creators covering a spectrum of topics and techniques

· Develop a detailed understanding of 40 different chart types

· Discover the many little details that make a big difference, with four chapters dedicated to the presentation design of interactive features, annotated assistance, colouring and composition

· Learn practical tips about how to most robustly gather, examine, transform, then explore your data

· Follow online exercises to apply knowledge, build skills and develop confidence

· Get access to hundreds of curated reading references to help hone the craft.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781529626544
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Publication date:	01/28/2025
Edition description:	Third Edition
Pages:	320
Product dimensions:	7.44(w) x 9.68(h) x (d)

About the Author

Andy Kirk is an Independent Data Visualisation Expert delivering a range of professional services to clients around the world as a data visualisation design consultant and prolific trainer. He is a sought-after speaker, a four-times published author, the editor of visualisingdata.com, and host of the ‘Explore Explain’ video and podcast series. He’s had over a decade experience as an adjunct lecturer positions teaching data visualisation modules on Masters programmes at a range of esteemed institutes and maintains academic activity through involvement as an external research consultant. Before finding his calling with data visualisation Andy studied at Lancaster University, graduating in 1999 with a BSc (hons) in Operational Research then commenced his working career with a series of business analysis/information management roles with organisations including CIS Insurance, West Yorkshire Police and the University of Leeds. It was whilst working at the University that he had the opportunity to undertake a Masters of Research degree (MRes) to study data visualisation, graduating with distinction in 2009 and changing the course of his career.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION
PART A: FOUNDATIONS
Chapter 1: What is Data Visualisation?
Chapter 2: The Process & Principles of Visualising Data
PART B: THE HIDDEN THINKING
Chapter 3: Formulating the Brief
Chapter 4: Working with Data
Chapter 5: Editorial Thinking
PART C: THE DESIGN THINKING
Chapter 6: Data Representation
Chapter 7: Interaction and Dynamic Design
Chapter 8: Annotation
Chapter 9: Colour
Chapter 10: Composition

Editorial Reviews

With presentation and interpretation of data central to so much today, this guide is essential reading for almost everyone!

Richard Smedley

Andy Kirk has managed to squeeze a lifetime of expertise on visualising data and telling stories using interactives into one easy-to-follow and beautifully illustrated book. For students and designers interested in creating interactive and stunningly crafted data visualisations this is a must read.

Tom Felle

Everything I loved in the first edition of this valuable book has been incorporated into the second, including Kirk’s typology of data visualisation and masses of visual examples, but with more precise written arguments. This volume continues to fill the gap between overwhelming data and the visualisations that can facilitate understanding.

Pamela Woolner

While most works in this space focus on data journalism, scientific visualisations or other specialist audiences, this book targets decision makers and helps with everything from initial concepts and data preparation to editorial layouts. A refreshing angle and a compelling read.

Elena Simperl

The book is comprehensive and practical, taking the reader one step at a time through the process of visualising data, from how to manage the initial thinking process to how and why to choose particular colours and compose the design.

Helen Kara

Data visualization is much more than just data and visuals. Andy understands that successful visualizations emerge from successful processes and myriad well-informed decisions. Getting all the parts right in this interdisciplinary field is a huge challenge; every student and practitioner of data visualisation will benefit from absorbing the vast wisdom captured in this book.

Scott Murray

What do we actually mean when we talk about Data Visualisation? How do we 'do it’? How can we ensure our research using Data Visualisation is effective and ethical? The answers are all here in this inspirational and invaluable guide.

Thérèse A.G. Lewis

In a clear and effective manner, Andy Kirk provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of data and design that is well integrated into a practical visualization workflow. Data Visualization will do much to improve literacy in both areas—a must-read, especially if you are starting in the field.

Isabel Meirelles

Many books focus on using software to visualise data but fewer consider good design. Data Visualisation addresses this in an inherently practical way. This is a much needed book which recognises and clarifies the process of designing excellent graphics.

Chris Playford

While most works in this space focus on data journalism, scientific visualisations or other specialist audiences, this book targets decision makers and helps with everything from initial concepts and data preparation to editorial layouts. A refreshing angle and a compelling read.

--Elena Simperl (4/4/2019 12:00:00 AM)

Everything I loved in the first edition of this valuable book has been incorporated into the second, including Kirk's typology of data visualisation and masses of visual examples, but with more precise written arguments. This volume continues to fill the gap between overwhelming data and the visualisations that can facilitate understanding.

--Pamela Woolner (3/29/2019 12:00:00 AM)

In this second edition, Andy adds relevant content to what was already a fantastic framework for learning the fundamentals of data visualization, all with acute and critical eyes. As an educator, I find it an invaluable resource to students and myself alike.

--Isabel Meirelles (4/1/2019 12:00:00 AM)

Many books focus on using software to visualise data but fewer consider good design. Data Visualisation addresses this in an inherently practical way. This is a much needed book which recognises and clarifies the process of designing excellent graphics.

--Chris Playford (1/18/2019 12:00:00 AM)

What do we actually mean when we talk about Data Visualisation? How do we ′do it'? How can we ensure our research using Data Visualisation is effective and ethical? The answers are all here in this inspirational and invaluable guide.

--Thérèse A.G. Lewis (3/28/2019 12:00:00 AM)

From the Publisher

What do we actually mean when we talk about Data Visualisation? How do we 'do it’? How can we ensure our research using Data Visualisation is effective and ethical? The answers are all here in this inspirational and invaluable guide.

Thérèse A.G. Lewis

In this second edition, Andy adds relevant content to what was already a fantastic framework for learning the fundamentals of data visualization, all with acute and critical eyes. As an educator, I find it an invaluable resource to students and myself alike.

Endorsement - Isabel Meirelles

Everything I loved in the first edition of this valuable book has been incorporated into the second, including Kirk’s typology of data visualisation and masses of visual examples, but with more precise written arguments. This volume continues to fill the gap between overwhelming data and the visualisations that can facilitate understanding.

Endorsement