The Future of Data: Visualization.
So, a bit too much to post with only a few characters, so I’ll expand on what I’m quite thrilled about: data and visualization.
‘19th century culture was defined by the novel, 20th century by cinema, the culture of the 21st century will be defined by the interface.’ – Lev Manovich
The aforementioned quote was seen in a spectacular TED video about data, art, and technology. What was particularly impressive was the core message: the interface. As data analysts (or just human thinkers), there is great power in being able to visualize and then see facts move. What was once static, cold and unfamiliar, the information now comes to life and takes on a new form; it’s anthropomorphism at its best. And that is a truly amazing idea: data is familiar and, therefore, comprehensible.
So, who cares at all? Back to the technology world and the interface leader, Tableau Software. This technology is poised to allow us all to do just that: make information familiar. With stellar human-centric design, its interface demands exploration and, subsequently, further questions. We all want to see patterns unfold only to be utterly surprised with what our eyes (brain, really) consume. Now the data isn’t just data; rather, it’s part of us, it’s what fuels our insatiable curiosity.
Try it. Go explore a dataset you are familiar with (for me, it’s the years of running data). It’s not stored in a cold, dark place anymore. It’s in a ‘clean-well lighted place’ (thanks Hemingway).
Enjoy!
-Mike
