3 Creating data visualisations using common software

3.1 Basic software tools

Many statistical software packages are available where you can quickly and easily construct different types of graphs to explore the data and determine which type best conveys your key messages. These software packages are especially helpful when larger data sets are involved or complex analyses are required.

The most basic and widely used programme for summarising and presenting data is Microsoft Excel. Advantages of MS Excel include:

• flexible storage, modelling and manipulation of datasets
• a range of automated functions, including data analysis and chart functions
• users can select from a range of automated charts to display the data graphically. This process requires minimal amount of user input.

While MS Excel is familiar to many and easy to use, the programme has several limitations, including:

• fewer functions for data analysis and graphic displays than dedicated statistical programmes
• a limited number of total cells compared to these programmes.

While MS Excel is convenient for data entry, it is generally recommended that MS Excel spreadsheets be exported to a dedicated statistical software programme for more than basic analysis.

Google Maps is an open-source service that provides information about geographical sites around the world. It offers conventional road maps, aerial and satellite views of many places. It can be customised to visualise geographic statistical data, such as economic and population statistics, and can be used to create disease prevalence maps. Google Maps is an obvious tool to use to visualise geospatial data as many people are familiar with the platform.