Technical data - Some readers do not have the necessary
background and experience to understand the data presented.
Demanding - Charts prepared to present data require the
illustrator to have special training to design them effectively.
Not precise - You cannot quote most charts the same way you can
quote text.
Limitations
- Not
all data
lends
itself
to
presentation
in
charts.
When you finish a well-designed and effective chart, the advantages
outweigh the disadvantages.
To design an effective chart, you must follow three basic steps: (1)
select the type of chart that presents the data most favorably, (2)
design the chart so it focuses the reader's attention on the emphasized
data, and (3) construct the chart so the intended audience can easily
read and understand it.
a. Selecting the Correct Type of Chart. To select the correct chart
to present the data, you must have a thorough understanding of the data
presented and the various types of charts and their strengths and
weaknesses.
(1) Usually the requester indicates the type of chart he wants
produced and provides all the data for the chart on the VI work order.
Unfortunately, the requester may not have the knowledge and training you
have in this area.
(2) After thoroughly reviewing and evaluating the information
provided on the VI work order, you may have to meet with the requester to
ensure you both have the same interpretation of the data presented by the
chart and tactfully introduce any alternate means of presenting the data.
You must remember the selection of a chart is a subjective process and
keep an open mind when discussing the selection of the type of chart with
the requester. Using the combination of your skills as an illustrator
and the requester's knowledge of the data presented in the chart, you can
produce an informative, accurate, and attractive chart.
b. Designing and Planning the Chart. When designing a chart, the
most important principle you should follow is simplicity.
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SS0530
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