Duration
Two days of live classroom or five days of virtual classroom instruction
Audience
You are a strong Tableau user who wants to learn more about best practices in visual analytics. The Visual Analytics course helps experienced Tableau users connect the science of data visualization to the principles of visual best practices. In this course, you will also learn how to leverage research on human perception to create Tableau visualizations that truly help people see and understand data.
This course uses Tableau to develop and discuss visualizations, but does not include instruction on how to use Tableau products—we expect that you already know how to navigate and use Tableau. The primary goals are to develop your visual analytic skills, to engage in active planning for elegant visual design, implement dashboards that reflect best practices, answer your data questions, and best communicate answers to your intended audience.
Prerequisites
You should already know how to use Tableau well. Ideally, you have taken Desktop I: Fundamentals and Desktop II: Intermediate courses, but this is not an official prerequisite. Be aware that we won’t introduce you to product features or walk you through step-by-step instructions.
Course Includes
This course includes a workbook containing key concepts on each topic covered and hands-on activities to reinforce the skills and knowledge attained. It also includes a flash drive containing Tableau workbooks and data sources to support the hands-on activities. What to Bring Please bring three examples of visualizations you’ve created in the past. These examples don’t have to be complex, just something you’ve actually used or presented. Any format (.twbx, .twb, image) is fine.
Formats and Procedures We use a combination of traditional teaching methods (lecture, class discussion) and in-class activities.
Course Objectives
The aim of this course is to add to your visual analysis toolbox. You will strengthen your analytical skills and gain an understanding of visualization best practices. You will become a better analyst, designer, and communicator.
At the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Describe the history, theory, and science behind data visualization, and how all this is built into Tableau’s DNA.
- Engage in the data analysis process including planning your line of questioning to reviewing and communicating your findings.
- Use some basic principles of human visual perception and cognition in your chart design.
- Critique charts and dashboards and offer suggestions for improvement.
Introduction
- What is visual analytics?
- Strengths and weaknesses of the human visual system
- The analytical process
Visual mapping techniques
- Working with human perceptual and cognitive processes
- Encoding data into visual form
- Working with color
Solving real-world problems
- Displaying time series data beyond the line chart
- Comparing categories and measures
- Mapping
- Precision and detail
Communicating your findings
- Fine-tuning for more effective visualization
- Storytelling and guided analytics
- Dashboards
Programme scope, delivery arrangements and suitability are confirmed during enquiry.