Assignment 1: Many Eyes

This assignment has two parts:

Part 1 (4 points): pick a dataset on Many Eyes that already has at least one visualization and create a different visualization of that same data. Is your version better? Worse? Why? Write a short explanation

In my opinion my visualization is a better representation when it comes to receiving the desired information that’s being presented. The information presented is the stats for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2009 season. In the original graph it is difficult to see each player separately as well as an effective visual of their assists and goals. I feel a bar graph shows the numbers more efficiently, and while other factors that contribute to a players success aren’t shown (position, ice time, etc.), when comparing the two graphs it is easily and quickly portrayed.
This especially comes in handy with hockey season starting yet again for 2010 and you’re trying to pick players for the hockey pool!

Click for Link to Stats: Penguins Stats 08/09


Part 2 (6 points): either a) create your own dataset by importing some data into Many Eyes or b) find an unvisualized dataset. Create a visualization of that data and explain why you picked the data and why you decided to use this particular visualization type. Did you discover any pattern in the data?

Click for Link to Visualization: President George Bush Announcing War on Iraq

While ever so predictable, there’s nothing more easy and never gets old but to pick on our dearest president Bush. I choose this visualization because I find it shows the content of a speech more dominantly, which is crucial when trying to strive home a certain point but all together I just find the over overall visual a pleasing ascetic.

Inspirational/Amusing Site Click Here

If you follow the political conflicts and debates of President Bush throughout his interactions with Iraq, the war on terrorism,etc., it is interesting to see what content predominates his speeches as an explanation of his involvement over there. Whether its humorous the number of times the word peace is used when none is to be found in the actions of or humors for lack there of of that word. So as a visual, depending on the viewer different data could be found in this content; another reason I find this visual representation to be so appealing.