What does "data visualization" aim to achieve?

Data visualization aims to represent data graphically to make complex information more understandable. This process involves transforming data into visual formats like charts, graphs, and maps, which enable users to grasp insights and patterns quickly. By presenting data in a visually appealing way, data visualization helps to highlight trends, identify anomalies, and make it easier for decision-makers to interpret the information effectively.

Using graphical representations caters to the human brain's ability to process visual information rapidly. As a result, key data points and relationships can be identified without having to sift through large datasets or numerical tables. This approach enhances communication by conveying information succinctly, making it particularly useful in fields such as business, science, and education, where stakeholders may need to understand complicated data sets at a glance.

In contrast, representing data numerically focuses on accuracy and detail without the added benefit of visual clarity, while storing data in databases pertains to data management rather than visualization. Conducting statistical tests, while important for analyzing data, does not directly address the graphical representation of information needed for effective communication and interpretation. Thus, the role of data visualization is distinguished by its emphasis on clarity and understanding through visual means.