Data 101
In this day and age, data is used in almost every industry. Data plays a crucial role in decision making, research, and development. To understand when and how to use data , it is important to become familiar with the basics.
Read on below for topics covering, data analysis, charts and graphs, data visualization and the software used to work with data.Whether you are a beginner or an expert, understanding the fundamentals is important for any data-driven decisions you may need to make.
Charts & Graphs
One of the most popular forms of data visualization is through charts and graphs. Charts and graphs allow for data to be presented visually, making it easier to interpret information quickly. Graphs such as bar charts, line charts, pie charts and infographics are popular formats for conveying data or trends.
Learn about different types of graphs, when to use them and when you might embed them into presentations and pitches.
Visualizing Data
Data visualization is the process of raw data into a visual format that can be easily understood. It helps to identify patterns and trends in large amounts data quickly, allowing for better making. Data visualization tools and design principles are used to turn data into visuals that can be used by professionals and non-professionals alike.
The key to creating a compelling data-driven story is expediting the learning curve of your audience. You want them to be able to understand the visuals quickly and identify what is important, especially in a world of ‘doom scrolling.’
Data Analysis
Digging through the data to find meaningful insights is the primary purpose of analysis. This involves collecting, cleansing and organizing the data before actually beginning to analyze it. Techniques such as correlation or regression can then be used to make better decisions from the analyzed data.
If you work in the digital marketing realm, data analysis and reports are key for optimizing products and campaigns. For example, analysis of user data from a website can provide valuable insights into how to improve the user experience or increase conversion rates.
Data Software
There is a wide range of software available for working with data. Whether you’re an experienced user or just starting out, there is something to suit your needs. Popular software includes Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Tableau and R.
Something like Google Sheets will work for the majority of data tasks. Such free tools will help share, analyze and collaborate with team members. If you need more advanced features and functions, then a more advanced software could be the better option.