In "The Visual Display of Quantitative Information", Edward Tufte put forth a theory of graphical excellence which taught his disciples how to present complex data crisply, clearly, and concisely while preserving data integrity. With "Envisioning Information", Tufte tackles a bolder objective: displaying multi-dimensional data effectively within the two-dimensional space of paper or screen.
To do this, Tufte employs his successful formula from "Visual Display"---outlining the general concepts of his theory and illustrating these principles with many and varied examples.
Tufte's approach to "escaping Flatland" (as he calls it) is simple but richly-illustrated:
- Employing the concept of micro/macro readings to add resolution to data displays, conveying more information in a smaller space
- Using layering and separation to foster comprehension of multivariate data
- Utilizing small multiples to convey change over time
- Leveraging color to convey information
- Weaving narratives of space and time
The effect upon the reader is staggering and transformative. Tufte has revised and extended his theory of graphical excellence with a handful of simple yet powerful techniques for improving our presentation graphics.
Anyone involved in graphics design or in the communication of complex information should have this book on his shelf---it is simply too valuable to keep having to borrow it from your public library.
