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The following discusses various design techniques to help viewers track their progress through a data storytelling visual narrative. These techniques provide a sense of structure and guidance, support feelings of accomplishment, and make the experience more engaging and enjoyable. Let’s explore some of these design techniques together:
Progress Bar: This is a simple yet effective way to show how much of the story has been completed. A progress bar can be displayed at the top or bottom of the screen, filling up as the viewer moves through the narrative. For example, in a data story about global warming, a progress bar could represent the years from the early 1900s to the present.
Checklists: Checklists offer a more detailed way to track progress. They can be used to break down a data story into smaller tasks or milestones, which the viewer can check off as they complete them. For instance, in a data story about a company’s growth, a checklist might include milestones like “Reached 100 employees,” “Expanded to new regions,” and “Launched new product line.”
Interactive Timelines: Timelines visually represent events that happen over time. By making them interactive, viewers can click on specific points in the timeline to learn more about each event. This allows them to see their progress as they move through the story. In a data story about the history of space exploration, an interactive timeline could highlight key events, such as the first human spaceflight, the moon landing, and the Mars rover missions.
Numbered Steps: Breaking the data story into numbered steps is another great way to help viewers keep track of their progress. Each step can represent a different topic or data point within the narrative. For example, in a data story about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, numbered steps could cover topics like exercise, diet, sleep, and stress management.
By using these design techniques, you can make your data storytelling visual narrative more engaging and easier to follow for your viewers. Remember, the key is to guide them through the story in a clear and organized manner while also providing a sense of progress and accomplishment.