Data Visualization and Reporting
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Janice Dsouza, MPH
Evaluation and Research Lead
Institute of International Education
New York, New York, United States
Evgenia Valuy
Evaluation and Research Lead
Institute of International Education, United States
Location: White River Ballroom H
Abstract Information: In a data-driven yet attention-lacking world, visual storytelling are increasingly important tools for conveying complex information, including using color in a way that doesn’t leave anyone in the dark. Accessibility is important in visual storytelling because it ensures that the information presented can be accessed, understood, and used by as many people as possible, including those with disabilities or who may be using assistive technologies. Also, evaluators should consider that individuals accessing their data visualization may be in low-resource settings and only have access to black-and-white printers, making it important for evaluators to understand how to use texture and black-and-white colors. The use of color is a particularly common issue, as many data visualizations rely heavily on color to convey meaning. In this interactive workshop, we will explore how to create visually appealing and accessible data visualizations using high-contrast color schemes, or alternate ways to access information that avoid using color alone to convey information. Workshop participants will partake in a creative coloring activity to tune into the topic and experience color differently and will get hands-on experience with tools and techniques for creating inclusive visualizations that everyone can understand and appreciate.
Relevance Statement: Accessibility is a critical issue in the field of evaluation, particularly in the context of data visualizations. The American Evaluation Association’s Guiding Principles for Evaluators emphasize the importance of “access, equity, and cultural competency in all aspects of the evaluation process.” Evaluations often rely on visualizations to present stories and findings clearly and compellingly, making it crucial to ensure that these visualizations are accessible to all stakeholders. Incorporating accessibility into the design of evaluation visualizations ensures everyone can access the information they need to make informed decisions (3). Color has been found to be the most effective way of communicating categorical data in a visualization compared to other visual variables such as shape, size, and orientation (2). However, relying solely on color can create barriers to understanding for people with color vision deficiencies (1). Therefore, using color judiciously and thoughtfully can improve the accessibility of visualizations. One way to do this is by using distinct colors easily distinguishable by people with color vision deficiencies, such as red and blue, to help ensure the information is accessible to a wider audience. Understanding how to use black, white, and greyscale can be especially useful for evaluators from – or who work with - low-resource organizations and communities who may have access to only black-and-white printers. By exploring alternative methods of conveying information and creating accessible visualizations, evaluators can contribute to developing more inclusive and equitable evaluation practices. The importance of accessibility in data visualization cannot be overstated, as it significantly impacts the inclusivity of evaluation practices. Our workshop adds to the knowledge in the field of evaluation by providing participants with practical tools and techniques for creating accessible visualizations. By exploring best practices for creating accessible visualizations, the workshop will help participants improve the quality and accessibility of their data visualizations. This workshop offers a comprehensive learning experience on creating accessible data visualizations. Participants will engage in hands-on activities covering essential concepts and practical tools. The workshop agenda includes: A hands-on activity where participants will color visualizations by hand to better experience color. Presentations covering the basics of accessibility in data visualizations, including an overview of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and how they apply to data storytelling A discussion on design principles for creating accessible data visualizations. An overview of tools and technologies that can be used to create accessible data visualizations. Best practices for using these tools to ensure accessibility, including an exercise on how to test and evaluate the accessibility of data visualizations Citations: Schwabish, E. B. J., Popkin, S., & Feng, A. (2022). Centering Accessibility in Data Visualization. Richards, N. (2022). Questions in dataviz: a design-driven process for data visualisation. CRC Press. Coalter, J. (2020). ColorBrewer 2.0 and the Rainbow: Using Color Tools to Choose Appropriate Color Schema for your Data Visualization. Issues in Science and Technology Librarianship, (94).