SXSW 2012

Big. Complicated. Often dirty. Sexy? Interactive data visualizations (charts and graphs) have helped make data consumable, accessible, and yes, sexy. It’s that sex appeal that has us clamoring to see our twitter, AdWords, conversion, and other data in a sleek, interactive, “I want the answers now” views. Data has snuck its way into our lives – from our offices, to our bedrooms. It’s everywhere. And as it continues to penetrate all areas of our lives it also continues to be delivered in a variety of different formats – some better than others. From the corny quick-stat charts in USA today to smart interactive graphs embedded in blogs, posted in online publications, and now frequently dominating the screens of our work computers. We’re starting to become obsessed, and more importantly, held accountable for much of the data consuming our lives. So, we admit it. Data is sexy. Especially when it’s easy to understand, interactive, and is in a format that easily facilitates smart business decision making. Luckily it doesn’t have to be as scary, or intimidating, or (potentially) as uncomfortable as that first time…