What is data visualization?

Data visualization is becoming an increasingly important tool to help fleets identify and understand trends in their telematics data. GPS vehicle tracking makes it possible to capture a large amount and great variety of data, such as:

• Stop times and idling
• Speeding, acceleration, and braking
• Planned and actual routes
• Work hours
• Spend amounts
• Substrate spreading
• and much more!

With data visualization techniques, fleet managers can make sense of this large volume of data and even draw correlations between data in a matter of seconds as opposed to spending hours or days sifting through report after report to draw the necessary conclusions.

Defining Data Visualization

Infographics, data visualization, dashboards — these terms all refer to the use of graphics to communicate information. For centuries, humans have used images to relate information and tell stories. The origin of data visualization has been linked back to the Ancient Egyptians, who surveyed and mapped the land and the stars. [1]

There are many different types of visuals that can be used. Graphs, charts, tables, maps, calendars, illustrations, pictograms, networks, and trees are just some examples. The shape that data can take is limited only by the imagination.

Related Reading: "3 Ways to Stay Innovative as Tech Rapidly Evolves" by Adam Fridman, Inc.

Using Images for Added Impact

The impact that visuals can have is undeniable. A picture is worth a thousand words. Look at this striking map by Huffington Post contributor and self-professed data geek Max Galka, “Every Death on Every U.S. Road 2004-2013,” which represents each fatal crash over ten years as a figure, telling who they were and what caused the accident.

Data Visualization 101 — Videos

The Art of Data Visualization - Off Book, PBS Digital Studios

This video featuring interviews with pioneers of the field, presents a fascinating look at the history of data visualization, how it works, and why it’s important.

David McCandless: The beauty of data visualization - TED Talks

In this TEDTalk, David McCandless shows how visuals can distill powerful meaning out of complex data.

References:

1. IDRC, “Data Visualization in Review: A Summary,” May 7, 2012, http://www.idrc.ca/EN/Documents/Summary-Report-English-Final-7-May-2012.pdf 

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