Checklist – visualizations
Ensure that each visualization includes and accurately reflects the
following elements:
The selected graph is the best option for representing this data
All numbers double-checked
Spell check
Headline/title
Correct units of measurement
Description of what the x- and y-axis represent
Y-axis starts at 0 (If not: Is it clearly shown? Does the editor agree?)
Conscious choice of colours (explained on request) Source
Instructions for use (if the graph is interactive)
Context or explanation (if necessary)
Byline
Accessibility (contrast, caption for screen readers, attached table etc)
(explained on request)
Understandable for someone who sees the visualization for the first time
(show it to someone outside the newsroom)
The visualization checked on a mobile device
A)
The red line is very easy to spot for the reader. Some values have been added to show some clear data on how many reactors have been operating throughout the years. This with the grey filled area under the line emphasis the increase in operational nuclear reactors.
B) Total Net Capacity
This graph shows the 10 countries with the highest total net electrical capacity, according to data from IAEA. It gives a clear idea of which country produces the most. The unit is in legend.
C) Answer the following questions.
- Have you followed the checklist for visualizations (every step)?
- Absolutely. Very helpful.
- Colours: How easy or difficult is changing colours using the tool?
- Relatively straightforward.
- Text/Labels: How easy or difficult is it to work with text and labels in the tool?
- It is very easy. However it lacks a clear and straightforward way of adding a legend to the x and y axis.
- Flexibility: How flexible are the tools? Can you make the changes you need?
- Yes.
- Accessibility: What are the different accessibility options provided by the tools?
- One can add an alternative description for screen readers.
- Smartphone: How do the charts appear on your smartphone? Have you faced any issues while accessing them?
- Works well. Haven't faced any issues.
Part 2)
B)
C)
Answer the following questions (yes, once again!). Write the answers in your post:
- Have you followed the checklist for visualizations (every step)?
- Absolutely.
- Colours: How easy or difficult is changing colours using the tool?
- Very straightforward.
- Text/Labels: How easy or difficult is it to work with text and labels in the tool?
- Very straightforward.
- Flexibility: How flexible are the tools? Can you make the changes you need?
- Yes, it is very flexible and easy to change.
- Accessibility: What are the different accessibility options provided by the tools?
- One can write a text for screen readers.
- Smartphone: How do the charts appear on your smartphone? Have you faced any issues while accessing them?
- They do appear but they are a lot more compact. Suit the computer format way better.
Part 3)
- In what context do you think Datawrapper is the best tool, and why? When would you not use it?
- It is a good tool that it enables you to upload the data and the choose which graph would fit this dataset best. It is very straightforward and easy to use. I would use it in most cases but I feel like flourish would be better for more "complicated" issues to visualise.
- What are the main benefits of using Datawrapper?
- It is very easy to input data in Datawrapper and preview them.
- In what context do you think Flourish is the best tool, and why? When would you not use it?
- I would use Flourish in most cases. It is a bit less straightforward than Datawrapper but offers the possibility to use many different types of graphs and provide the required amount of information to the readers. I would use it for creating a bar, line or column charts.
- What are the main benefits of using Flourish?
- Easy to use & one can provide enough information to the readers by adding legends, titles etc.
- Which of the tools do you personally prefer so far?
- I believe I have a slight preference for Flourish considering the possibilities it gives you. It also has the advantage of making the graphs a lot more professional as one can add more information to it.