The Project
With access to all kinds of complex information, it can be argued whether or not we fully comprehend what is presented to us. David McCandless once said "By visualising information, we turn it into a landscape that you can explore with your eyes: a sort of information map. And when you're lost in information, an information map is kind of useful". Let's unpack that, We are surrounded by all types in information and we need an an easy way to read it. By making use of different charts and mediums we are able to see the significance of what we are looking at. It gives the numbers gravity and helps one realise how important they may be.
This data visualisation project will focus on what types of humor are found throughout different generations. The data was gathered through an online survey and this was the best way to gather data given the current lockdown situation. I was able to gather over 500 responses and I am so grateful to everyone who participated.
The Process
Step 1: I started out by brainstorming different topics and my top few were corruption, humor and taxies. I decided to go with humor because I would like to see what senses of humor different generations have. Here is a link to the survey so you have a look at what questions were asked. This survey was targeted at South African citizens that reside in Gauteng. I did have some random people fill in the survey from out of Gauteng so I just had to disregard that information.
Step 2: While I was gathering my data, I had to decide how I was going to visualise it! I looked at two methods, circle packing and a radar chart. I found this process a bit challenging because I was battling to visualise in my head how the date was going to be portrayed on either of these. To solve this issue I made some quick wireframes in Illustrator.
Radar chart
Circle Packing
After seeing what each chart could potentially look like, I decided to go with the Radar chart because instead of using circles, interesting blobs would be made. I also chose the radar chart because of the type of information that I had.
Step 3: After figuring out what would be the best method to display my data, I was able to start designing.
Look and feel
The Interface
Screengrabs
I used a dark background and bright colours to create contrast so that the data would stand out. I had to make the actual 'radar' chart slightly translucent so that all the attention would be focused on the blobs.
I really enjoyed the process of this project from start to finish. It was super insightful and I have a new found respect for data visualisation.
How it works
