Data Visualization in Environmental Public Health: From Data to Insight
Choosing the Right Platform Every organization operates within a unique combination of priorities, resources, and constraints. Budget, licensing, IT policies, staff expertise, existing technology, and organizational standards all influence which platforms are available. Rather than waiting for the “ideal” software, start by using the tools already supported within your organization. As needs evolve, you can introduce additional platforms to complement existing capabilities. Table 3 provides a simple comparison between different visualization platforms. Choose the Simplest Platform That Meets Your Needs A clear visualization created with familiar software is often more valuable than a sophisticated dashboard that few people can maintain or use. The goal is not to build the largest software collection. It is to assemble a practical set of compatible tools that supports your organization’s work from analysis through communication. When evaluating visualization platforms, consider questions such as: • What types of visualizations do we need to create? • Who is the intended audience? • Will the visualization need to be shared internally, publicly, or both? • Will mapping or spatial analysis be important?
Table 3 Quick Comparison of Visualization Platforms
PLATFORM
TYPICAL COST*
BEST SUITED FOR
Microsoft Excel
Often included with Microsoft 365 Free Desktop; Pro/ Premium licensing available
Quick charts, summaries, tables, exploratory analysis Internal dashboards, performance monitoring, business reporting Interactive analysis, analytical dashboards, executive reporting Interactive mapping, spatial analysis, operational dashboards Lightweight dashboards, basic online reporting Infographics and public communication Customized visualization, advanced analysis, automation
Microsoft Power BI
Tableau
Commercial
ArcGIS Online and Dashboards
Commercial
Google Looker Studio Free
Canva & Adobe Express
Free and paid options
Python & RStudio
Free and open source
* Licensing models and pricing vary by organization and can change over time.
• How frequently will the information be updated and by whom? • Does the platform integrate with our existing data sources? • What technical expertise is available? • What budget, licensing, or IT constraints should be considered? • Will this platform complement the tools we already use?
27
Powered by FlippingBook