In data visualizations, animations can be used to portray data in a persuasive, memorable, and effective way. We can show processes, tell stories, and evoke emotions — all of which are difficult or impossible with static graphics and text alone. Using free online tools, even a nonprofessional can easily create professional-looking animations to tell a data story. Here, we discuss the use of animation to support a broader narrative and how data are best visualized for this use.
Although similar to presentations, animations and the data visualization considerations for them are sufficiently different to stand as a distinct category. Find out more about presentation tools in the Presentations section of this toolkit.
Animations General Resources
- Michael Litt offers Seven Tips for Launching A Video Marketing Strategy, including tips on video content and tracking results.
- Ilya Spitalnik provides an overview on why animation is effective and tips for telling your story using it in the video Overview of Steps to Make a Great Animated Video in under 10 Minutes.