You're tasked with designing data visualizations. How do you navigate conflicting stakeholder expectations?

The key to a successful data visualization is regular user adoption. Before starting dashboard design, the groundwork must be laid by engaging all potential stakeholders and users in a workshop to identify points and opportunities in their current reporting needs. Collaboratively prioritizing these asks into a roadmap based on what data is available at the right granularity with accuracy for creating it the first deliverable before design. Another helpful tip is to identify some committed users and have them walk through cleaning, transforming, and building their original Excel reports.

The first step is to thoroughly understand the needs of all stakeholders and prioritize them based on their importance and impact. It's essential to focus on creating visualizations that are simple, understandable, and visually appealing, while also conveying meaningful and actionable insights. Achieving this requires clear communication with stakeholders and an iterative approach to the design process, incorporating their feedback at every stage to ensure their expectations are fully met.

- 📋 **Clarify Objectives:** Begin by gathering each stakeholder's goals and priorities to ensure alignment with the project's overall vision. - 🤝 **Facilitate Open Dialogue:** Encourage stakeholders to voice their expectations openly, fostering a collaborative environment. - 🎯 **Identify Common Ground:** Find overlapping needs and shared goals to create a unified direction for the visualization. - 🔄 **Prioritize Flexibility:** Remain adaptable, knowing that some expectations might evolve as the project progresses. - 💬 **Communicate Transparently:** Keep stakeholders informed about how their needs are being addressed and manage any potential trade-offs.

The first and most crucial step is understanding the unique needs of each stakeholder. This involves active listening and thorough research to identify what different stakeholders expect from the data visualization. For instance, executives might be more interested in high-level insights, while analysts may want detailed, granular data. Understanding these needs helps in creating visualizations that address the specific requirements of each group. Strategies: Conduct interviews or surveys with stakeholders to gather their requirements. Review past reports or visualizations to understand what has worked or failed. Identify key questions that stakeholders need the visualizations to answer.

Golden rule is to initiate by identifying the stakeholders and their specific needs. Conduct individual meetings to understand their business requirements and objectives. Utilize a collaborative approach by facilitating joint feedback sessions, allowing stakeholders to voice their concerns and suggestions. Prioritize and rank the requirements based on project value. Finally, maintain transparent communication throughout the process to ensure all parties feel heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment. Thank You!

To navigate conflicting stakeholder expectations in data visualization design, I: Engage Stakeholders: I hold initial meetings with all stakeholders to understand their specific needs and priorities. Prioritize Goals: I identify common objectives and prioritize them, ensuring the most critical business needs are met first. Iterative Design: I use an iterative approach, sharing prototypes and gathering feedback to refine the visualizations. Clear Communication: I maintain open communication, explaining trade-offs and how design choices align with overall business goals. Compromise: I find balanced solutions that address the core needs of all parties involved.

Escuchar mucho el dolor del usuario y no forzar herramientas ultra sofisticadas, encontrando la intersección perfecta entre lo simple y lo eficiente.

Engage with Stakeholders: Start by meeting with each stakeholder to understand their specific needs, priorities, and expectations. Clarify what each person or group wants to achieve with the visualization. Example: If one stakeholder wants detailed data analysis while another prefers high-level insights, understand the reasoning behind these preferences. This could mean creating a dashboard with both a summary view and an option to drill down into more detailed data.

A tradução de dados para as necessidades dos participantes dos processos nem sempre é simples. Por isso se tornam essenciais duas perguntas, entre outras, precursoras à análise: > O leitor da análise é a mesma pessoa que a pediu? Muitas vezes ela é requisitada por outras partes que não o usuário final. É importante obter essa distinção a fim de evitar refações por desalinhamento. > Qual a periodicidade das leituras? O tipo de um gráfico, relatório ou de um dashboard depende muito da sua frequência de uso. Uma análise pontual pode ter uma profundidade muito maior do que um relatório semanal, em que o usuário acompanha números mais objetivos para tomadas de decisão mais rotineiras.

Priorizar los objetivos es crucial después de recopilar las expectativas de las partes interesadas. Evalúa cada solicitud en función de cómo se alinean con los objetivos principales del proyecto. Algunas demandas serán esenciales para el éxito del proyecto, mientras que otras pueden ser de menor prioridad. Tu tarea es distinguir entre los "imprescindibles" y los "agradables de tener", lo que puede implicar negociaciones para ajustar expectativas. Mantén el enfoque en lo que realmente contribuirá a la narrativa de los datos y al propósito general de la visualización, asegurando que los resultados sean efectivos y alineados con los objetivos estratégicos.

When faced with conflicting expectations, prioritize goals based on overall business objectives and the critical impact of the visualization. Identify which needs are non-negotiable and which can be compromised, ensuring the final product serves the most crucial purposes.

A partir do esclarecimento sobre as principais perguntas de negócio a serem respondidas em uma análise, é importante devolver as suas principais perguntas sobre o projeto. Incluem-se nisso o prazo, quem é o usuário final e qual o esforço de manutenção após o projeto ser finalizado. Assegurar a qualidade dos dados deve ser a meta principal de qualquer profissional. Projetos entregues com pressa, visualizações ou complicadas ou simples demais, e estruturas sem acompanhamento posterior quando isso é exigido podem prejudicar, e muito, a sua integridade final.

After gathering all the requirements, it’s essential to prioritize them. Not all requests can be met, especially if they conflict with each other. You need to balance the importance of each request and align them with the overall objectives of the project or business. This prioritization helps in making informed decisions on what aspects of the visualization to focus on.

Parte fundamental de las priorizaciones es evaluar las opciones en conjunto ya que mis prioridades pueden ser distintas a las de los demás por lo que es recomendable setear, en conjunto con todas las partes, cuales son las reales prioridades dentro de un proyecto. Es muy importante no suponer los objetivos si no que hablar de ellos para que todos estén bajo el mismo alineamiento o comenzar a encaminarse a ellos.

To avoid conflicts among stakeholders in data visualization, prioritize goals by aligning the visualization with the most critical business objectives. Start by identifying the key metrics that drive decision-making and ensure they are clearly represented. Engage stakeholders early to understand their priorities and address any differing expectations. Focus on clarity and simplicity, ensuring that visualizations cater to the needs of the most impactful users. Regular communication and feedback loops help maintain alignment and prevent conflicts over varying preferences.

Clear communication is essential when navigating conflicting stakeholder expectations in data visualization design. By ensuring that all parties understand the goals, limitations, and possibilities of the visualization, you can align everyone’s expectations and reduce conflicts. Open dialogue helps in addressing concerns, clarifying misunderstandings, and setting realistic goals, making it easier to achieve a final design that satisfies all stakeholders.

Comunicarte con claridad es esencial para gestionar las expectativas de las partes interesadas. Mantén una comunicación constante sobre el progreso de la visualización, destacando cómo sus aportes están influyendo en el diseño. Presenta prototipos visuales o bocetos desde las primeras etapas para obtener retroalimentación y alinear las expectativas. Este enfoque no solo previene malentendidos, sino que también asegura que las partes interesadas se sientan involucradas y valoradas. Además, es una oportunidad para explicar cualquier limitación técnica o de diseño que pueda afectar sus solicitudes, facilitando una comprensión mutua y un proceso más fluido.

Clear communication is vital throughout the process. Stakeholders need to understand why certain design decisions are made, especially if their requests are deprioritized. Regular updates and transparent communication help manage expectations and keep everyone on the same page. Strategies: Hold regular meetings or check-ins with stakeholders. Use mockups and prototypes to demonstrate design choices. Document decisions and share them with all stakeholders to ensure clarity.

Maintain open and transparent communication with stakeholders throughout the process. Clearly articulate the reasoning behind design decisions, and provide visual prototypes to illustrate potential outcomes. This helps manage expectations and fosters a collaborative environment.

La comunicación dentro de un equipo es la clave para poder desarrollar un trabajo de calidad. Por esta misma razón es tan importante no solo mostrar tu trabajo si no que estar dispuesto a recibir feedback de vuelta sobre cosas que, quizás, no se estaban viendo. Por otra parte, una buena práctica es realizar MVPs de las visualizaciones ya que con ellas se puede ir validando y entregando información de valor desde una primera instancia como también corrigiendo y evaluando nuevas visualizaciones.

Clear communication helps gather essential insights into stakeholder needs, such as preferred visualization types, and the frequency of updates. Regular feedback loops allow for adjustments and ensure that the visualizations remain relevant and actionable. Effective communication also helps manage expectations, resolve conflicts, and foster collaboration, ultimately leading to more impactful and accurate data-driven decisions.

Combine Functionality with Design: While some stakeholders might focus on data accuracy, others might be more concerned with how the visualization looks. Strive for a balance that satisfies both groups. Example: If a stakeholder is focused on aesthetic appeal, use clean and visually appealing designs that don’t sacrifice data clarity. Utilize color schemes that are both attractive and effective in conveying information

Não precisa inventar a roda. E conhecer os usuários que vão utilizar a visualização, auxilia a definir o caminho a ser seguido. Em geral, e nas experiências que tive, o básico bem feito funciona. As pessoas ainda têm dificuldade em interpretar as informações, então quanto mais claro você conseguir apresentar, mais assertivo vai ser. Gosto de usar a galeria pública do Tableau como exemplo. Você pode criar uma visualização absurda e esteticamente chamativa, mas isso garante que a informação vai ser entregue? Ou o usuário vai demandar mais tempo para tentar entender?

Lograr un equilibrio estético en la visualización de datos requiere combinar la belleza visual con la claridad funcional. Las partes interesadas pueden tener preferencias estéticas, pero tu enfoque debe centrarse en un diseño que sea atractivo y, a la vez, comunique los datos de manera precisa y eficiente. Es fundamental educar a las partes interesadas sobre las mejores prácticas de diseño, explicando que la claridad y la simplicidad suelen ser más efectivas que los adornos innecesarios. Tu experiencia en visualización de datos te permitirá tomar decisiones que armonicen forma y función, asegurando que la visualización no solo se vea bien, sino que también cumpla su propósito informativo.

𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 Instead of just explaining data visualization rules, let's give people the power to explore the data themselves with an interactive dashboard. This approach digs beyond the basics, allowing users to 'drill down' into the details for a more complete understanding. Think of it like a magnifying glass for your data: start with a broad overview, then zoom in on specific areas for a closer look. It transforms static numbers into a dynamic story, helping users uncover hidden trends and patterns as they navigate through different layers of information.

Strive to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring the visualization is both visually appealing and effective in conveying the necessary information. This balance often satisfies stakeholders focused on design and those focused on data accuracy and clarity.

Aesthetics play a crucial role in data visualization, but they should not compromise the clarity and accuracy of the data. Striking a balance between aesthetic appeal and functionality ensures that the visualizations are both engaging and informative. This balance is often where stakeholder conflicts arise, as different groups may have different views on what the visualizations should look like. Strategies: Follow best practices in data visualization design. Use color and design elements that enhance readability without overwhelming the viewer. Test designs with a sample audience to gather feedback on aesthetics and clarity.

Tal como se expresa en el artículo, a veces, menos es mas. Es importante que las visualizaciones tengan focos de información, esto quiere decir que si la visualización tiene el objetivo de saber la venta mensual, por ejemplo, este dato debe poder interpretarse en la visualización antes de cualquier otro dato. También, es importante no sobrecargar los diseños con colores fuertes o agregar mucha información en una hoja ya que se perderá el real propósito de una visualización. En internet pueden encontrar colores o posiciones de datos que ayudan a resaltar/opacar la información.

The iterative design review needs to be a time-boxed event where we need to walk through the wireframe and explain the business user case the visualization will address and the KPI used for insight.

El diseño iterativo es clave para refinar una visualización de datos. A través de este proceso, creas versiones sucesivas de la visualización, recopilas comentarios y realizas ajustes basados en esos aportes. Este enfoque no solo permite a las partes interesadas ver cómo sus ideas se implementan, sino que también facilita un diálogo productivo. Fomenta la crítica constructiva y permanece receptivo a los cambios que se alineen con los objetivos del proyecto. Cada iteración te acerca a un diseño que satisface tanto las necesidades de las partes interesadas como los principios fundamentales de la visualización de datos, asegurando un resultado final equilibrado y efectivo.

Iterative design is a process where you create versions of the visualization, gather feedback, and make improvements. As Simon Sinek says, "The goal is not to be perfect by the end. The goal is to be better tomorrow." This approach allows stakeholders to see their ideas in action and provides a platform for discussion. Encourage constructive criticism and be open to making changes that align with the project's goals. Remember, each iteration brings you closer to a design that meets the stakeholders' needs while staying true to data visualization best practices.

Be open to iteration. Present early drafts of the visualization and be prepared to make revisions based on feedback. This iterative approach allows stakeholders to see how their input is being incorporated and helps refine the final product.

Design is an iterative process, especially when dealing with multiple stakeholders. Initial designs should be treated as drafts, with feedback loops built in to refine the visualization over time. This approach allows for flexibility and adjustments based on stakeholder input, ensuring the final product meets the majority of needs. Strategies: Create initial wireframes or prototypes for early feedback. Use A/B testing to compare different designs and gather data-driven insights. Be open to revisions and incorporate constructive feedback iteratively.

Hay que recordar que las visualizaciones serán utilizadas por distintas personas y son aquellas las que tienen los mejores feedbacks que dar. Estar dispuesta a realizar iteraciones no solo hace que las personas se sientan escuchadas si no que le estás dando una mejor herramienta de trabajo que se adecue a sus necesidades.

Provide regular updates and iterative drafts to ensure stakeholders are engaged. Additionally, managing timelines and explaining the rationale behind design choices fosters trust and ensures that expectations are met or adjusted as needed.

Set realistic expectations from the outset by discussing potential trade-offs and limitations. Regularly update stakeholders on progress and any challenges encountered. Managing expectations helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures satisfaction with the final outcome.

Gestionar las expectativas es un aspecto crucial que debe mantenerse durante todo el proyecto. Es fundamental ser transparente sobre lo que es posible dentro del tiempo y presupuesto disponibles. Si ciertas solicitudes no pueden cumplirse, ofrece explicaciones claras y presenta alternativas viables. Tu rol como asesor implica guiar a las partes interesadas hacia soluciones efectivas mientras mantienes un alcance realista. Al establecer límites claros y comunicar de manera proactiva, aseguras un proceso de diseño más fluido y aumentas las probabilidades de lograr un resultado exitoso que satisfaga las necesidades de todos los involucrados.

To manage expectations effectively: > Set Expectations Early: Clearly define what’s feasible from the start and document agreements. > Define Success: Align on what success looks like and highlight any constraints. > Communicate Regularly: Provide consistent updates and use visuals to clarify progress. > Manage Changes: Establish a process for handling scope changes and be prepared to say no when necessary. > Listen and Empathize: Ensure stakeholders feel heard and address concerns with understanding. > Reconfirm Objectives: Regularly revisit and align on objectives to avoid misalignment. > Prepare for Challenges: Set realistic timelines, communicate risks, and plan for potential issues.

Here's a revised version: When designing data visualizations, manage expectations by: - Defining project goals and stakeholder needs - Prioritizing key performance indicators (KPIs) - Focusing on primary objectives - Offering alternative solutions - Communicating design decisions transparently Effective communication and a user-centered approach are key to success.