Interactive visualization of statistical information OECD / ISTAT Seminar on Dynamic Graphics for Presenting Statistical Indicators Rome, 5 – 6 March 2007 Hans-Joachim Mittag University of Hagen, Germany

Interactive visualization of statistical information 1. Starting point: The multimedia project “New Statistics” 2. Applications to official statistics Dynamic data presentation Interactive publication 3. Outlook Combining data and interactive maps Virtual libraries for the public

1. Starting point: The multimedia project “New Statistics”  E-learning project for statistics education funded by the German government (until 2004)  Consortium of 10 German universities  Covers all topics of an introductory statistics course  Goal: Improving the quality of statistics education →

1. Starting point: The multimedia project “New Statistics” Development of e-learning modules for statistics education (mainly for use at universities) Pillars of the e-modules: Statistical Lab: ad-hoc analyses of user- defined data sets Animations (Flash): explanation of statistical theory Case studies: “Real” life problems / data sets from different sciences Interactive experiments and simulations (Java): “trying out” statistical methods → Java applets: link “Library..“ Publications: link „Project-related..“

1. Starting point: The multimedia project “New Statistics” Examples (interactive visualization of statistical theory) Virtual coin experiment: “Playing“ with distribution parameters: → Illustration

2. Applications to official statistics Transfer: Educational world → Official statistics Statistics education: Interactive experiments / simulations (user-controlled exploration of statistical methods) Official statistics: Interactive visualization of data / indicators (user-controlled exploration of data sets) →

Examples (interactive visualization of data sets): Unemployment rates in Europe European e-Business Index 2. Applications to official statistics

Examples (interactive visualization of data sets): Capital-city regions Gross earnings in Europe 2. Applications to official statistics → Illustration

2. Applications to official statistics Design principles for interactive data visualization  Design as self-contained mini learning worlds Example: Start with graphical data presentation but do not hide numerical information and meta data  Support user-controlled data exploration Example: Provision of different graphical instruments enabling the user to discover key information behind the data  Avoid information overload and superficial show effects Examples: not too many graphs simultaneously, cautious use of colours, no blinking data points

2. Applications to official statistics Why Java-based?  Usually no “plug-in” needed  Standardized programming, use of class libraries  Platform independence, online and offline use possible  Almost unlimited technical possibilities: animation (dynamic pyramids), inclusion of interactive maps combination with content based on other platforms (Flash, SVG), database connection

2. Applications to official statistics Stand-alone use of Java applets: Online: Via Web sites of statistical offices Offline: Dynamic PowerPoint presentation (press conferences) CD-ROMs / DVDs complementing printed publications Example: Eurostat Yearbook on Regions 2003

2. Applications to official statistics Use of Java applets as part of Web publications: Added value of interactivity

2. Applications to official statistics Use of Java applets as part of Web publications (cont.): → Illustration

3. Outlook The approach presented is only a starting point for further development and refinement, preferably with experienced partners. Next steps: Interface “large database – Java applets” (automatic updating) Integration of export and print functionalities Combination of Java and SVG developments Animation of Java applets as long as animation contributes to a better understanding of the data Virtual libraries containing elements for data visualization (in particular: “eye-catcher” based on international data)

3. Outlook Virtual libraries containing elements for interactive data visualization sharing between different content providers (national / supranational statistical offices, educational institutions); use for statistical training “Eye-catcher” based on international data Examples: Interactive graphs for key indicators Dynamic maps + information on indicators Animated presentation of indicators over time Interactive online publications for the public

Web links: → Path “Library.. / Official statistics” → Link “Interactive visualization of statistical information” → Link “Interactive publications” Cooperation partners wanted !