Democratizing Information Visualization. A Study to Map the Value of Graphic Design

Visual representations are a consistent component of human evolution. They are forms of concept designs using combinations of colors, patterns, and geometrical figures. As history displays, graphical visualization has been used since early ages as a mean to transfer knowledge between human beings across generations. Recently, visual representations became recognized by various scientists as tools to ease cognitive comprehension in various scientific fields. Therefore, visual representations are becoming important in science communication and education. Notwithstanding the general relevance of visual representations, there is not extensive recognition of the value of graphical representation to improve communication of scientific results and the level of awareness of visual design principles among non-design-centered communities is low. Considering these aspects, this explorative study investigates the perception of STEM researchers, without any specific visual design background, and the value of visual representations as tools to support the communication of technical and scientific knowledge among academics and a wider non-design-centered community. To measure the user perception and the value of visual representations in daily working practice, an interpretive approach was used, and a pilot study was conducted with a group of voluntary participants recruited among research members from a well-known American institution. Results emphasize how researchers, who included professionally executed graphical representations in their publications, reports, and grant proposals, perceived their work as more easily readable. Early findings show that visual representations can positively support scientists to share research outcomes in a more compelling, visually clear, and impactful manner, reaching a wider audience across different disciplines