The COVID Charts

Observations on data visualizations of the coronavirus outbreak

The COVID Charts are brief critiques of data visualization and science communication of the coronavirus outbreak. They are not statements about the underlying science or public health policy.

If you would like me to critique a specific chart, get in touch.

▲ The missing curve and the unanswered question . A model released by the B.C. government of how critical care cases for COVID-19 could develop over the coming months based on the level of restrictions in place. (BC Centre for Disease Control, 17 April 2020).

17 April 2020

The missing curve and the unanswered question

BC Centre for Disease Control

critique

poster

background

British Columbia is praised for their COVID-19 strategies and Dr. Bonnie Henry, the Provincial Health Officer, regularly shares data and charts during her daily briefings.

core message

The charts are valuable but some are more important than others. This particular one is critical in the discussion around loosening restrictions and I show how to make it even better.

key guidelines

1. The design of a chart must incorporate its purpose.

2. Intuitively map color to groups and trends.

3. Make the legend a table and order items in order of appearance on the plot.