Transforming information into insight
“Well this graph doesn’t look great, but let’s focus on the numbers.”
How many times have you sat in meetings with your clients and said something along those lines?
Good looking graphs can add to how your clients both receive and understand those numbers. Data is powerful, and if it is visualized with care and intention, it can elevate the experience you have with your clients.
Here are a 5 ways you can turn information into an experience:
Storytelling with Data Narratives: Tell a story that resonates with your client's goals and challenges, making the information more relatable. For example, transform quarterly financial results into a journey, highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities as plot points.
Visual from the book Terra Nova designed by Pentagram Design
Visual Metaphors and Analogies: Try using visual metaphors or analogies to illustrate complex data points. Compare market trends to a roller coaster ride, where ups and downs represent fluctuations. This creates a visual connection that helps clients intuitively grasp the dynamics of the data.
Graphic created to mark the end of the United States' military engagement in Iraq in 2011 by Simon Scarr for South China Morning Post
Have a Visual Guide for Your Brand: By creating and using your brand colours, logo, and design elements, you can build a consistent and recognizable brand. A well designed brand sets you apart, making your services more memorable and distinctive in the minds of your audience.
Data visualization system for Boston Consulting Group (BCG) by Alvin Groen
Make it simple: Good looking data can build trust. When clients can easily comprehend complex information, it creates a sense of transparency and confidence in your expertise. It's not just about what the data says; it's about how it's presented and the trust it instills in your ability to deliver.
Graphs designed for Farther by Red Antler
Personalized Anecdotes: Introduce personal anecdotes or client-specific examples to contextualize the data. Relate the information to your client's unique circumstances, showing that you understand their individual needs and goals.
Thinking about data differently can be a daunting task so we wanted to share a useful resource to get you inspired. Data Viz Project is a great resource that showcases how a single data set can be visualized in different ways.
We know that it takes a lot of work to create great looking charts, so make sure you are maximizing their potential. One way you can achieve this is by sharing these visually appealing charts, infographics, or snippets on your website and social media. This not only enhances your digital presence but also positions your brand as customer friendly.
In a profession where you communicate your knowledge and insights primarily through data, turning information into a visual experience is a game-changer. Embrace data visualization not just as a tool but as an integral part of your brand.
By going that extra mile you are telling your client that you care about them, and they’ll have a clear understanding of how their money is being invested.