In an increasingly competitive business environment, there is a growing demand for tools capable of relating information and providing deeper business analysis. In this sense, the relevance of the bubble chart becomes evident!
Used to demonstrate and compare data, the visualization is created from values inserted on the X (horizontal) and Y (vertical) axis. In addition, it is possible to represent a third dimension through the area of the bubbles (i.e., the size of the points), which is a great differential of the diagram.
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What is a Bubble Chart?
Basically, a bubble chart is a visual representation used to relate up to four dimensions of data. This visualization shows points with varying sizes positioned along the X (horizontal) and Y (vertical) axes.
The intersection of values referring to the X and Y axes determines the position of the point, while the area of the bubble represents a third dimension. At the same time, colors can also be used to distinguish categories or represent a fourth dimension of data.
Through these four variables, it is possible to make a more precise and detailed evaluation of the subject being addressed. It is no wonder that this type of chart is adopted when the intention is to relate and compare values.
Source: https://datavizcatalogue.com/methods/bubble_chart.html
When should a Bubble Chart be used?
Simply put, the bubble chart is extremely useful when you want to relate three to four factors.
For example, below we see a chart that associates number of orders (X axis), average price (Y axis), total sales value (bubble area), and product category (color).
Through the representation, patterns and correlations can be observed, allowing the identification of the cause of different types of problems. Therefore, the use of this chart is indicated when working with three sets of data, where each one has its own set of values. When the result is projected, the size of the bubbles emphasizes patterns and discrepancies, facilitating comparison between categories. In addition, the characteristics of the bubble are customizable, allowing labels to be added to the points and using colors to convey extra information.
How to interpret this type of representation?
As mentioned, the bubble chart is developed by plotting parameters on the X and Y axes. In this way, the relationship between the two represented variables is determined. Meanwhile, the size of the bubble is used to express the importance of a value. In a population context, for example, the size of the bubbles can show the size of a city or country’s population. That is, through a two-dimensional illustration, information can be compared more accurately and quickly.
See what to consider when creating a Bubble Chart
Understand, in sequence, the points that deserve attention when elaborating a bubble chart:
The number of data that can be “mapped” in this type of diagram is limited. After all, many bubbles in the same chart can make the plot disorganized and cause confusion in interpreting the results.
An interesting tip is to keep the bubbles somewhat transparent so that the diagram is more legible, facilitating the identification of the center of each circle in case of point overlap.
The circumference area should also be considered when drawing the bubble, not its radius or diameter. Otherwise, interpretations can be misleading.
It is worth emphasizing that unlike scatterplots that can show a large number of points without losing efficiency, bubble charts can become “messy” when trying to show many parameters. Therefore, the topic deserves extra attention!
Why does Qlik Sense help in creating charts?
Analyzing and comparing information can be a very simple task when a bubble chart is used with knowledge. It is an effective way to visualize complex data and communicate insights quickly and easily.
However, when creating bubbles in Excel or manual tools, for example, the result may not be the best! This is because the lack of precision can interfere with the plot. Not to mention, of course, the immense work involved in the process.
On the other hand, by elaborating the diagram in a modern and truly prepared program, specifically for dealing with information analysis, the quality of the visualization is guaranteed.
Therefore, if the idea is to rely on a technological data management system, but at the same time practical and intuitive, Qlik Sense is the best alternative on the market!
Capable of generating different types of tables, reports, and, obviously, charts, the tool has a clear layout and editable features, which can adapt to the needs of each situation.
So, contact Cluster now to receive the support you need and explore all the possibilities offered by Qlik Sense!
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