Tufte Charts

Tuft Charts are visual representations of a research project using the information generated to tell as much of the story as possible....and that's the bottom line, they tell a story. Where a chart or graph shows one or two pieces of information (usually the most or least of something, or possibly a ranking/comparison of items), a Tufte Chart has enough information to engage the viewer about many pieces of knowledge -- giving the chart more depth and interest, thus making it more valuable.

www.caes.uga.edu

For example, in the graph to the right, the University of Georgia has identifies the kinds of figs that would prosper in areas of Georgia. The graph shows
1- areas of the state where figs can grow
2- fig plant suggestions for the areas
3- the towns associated with the different areas

That's a lot of information in one drawing.

This comical example of what a Tufte chart is NOT is from
www.skreend.com. It illustrates how a simple pie chart can be too simple. The one on the shirt only gives one piece of information, leaving the viewer wondering about the rest of the story.

When presenting my fig information in January, I want to present several layers of information: What kinds of figs can Virginians grow? What soil considerations need to be noted? Where can they be sold? What is done with them?

Of course, the information might take another turn entirely: How many poeple have ever eaten figs? How many people would try them if available? What price would people pay for a pint of figs? How cost effective are figs per planted tree?

Lots of questions. Time to find some facts!