Data visualisation and icons

Sometimes a picture says more than words. That is why researchers, communications advisors and policymakers at Utrecht University use visuals to make complex information clearer. For example, when presenting research findings, figures and forecasts. What’s more, visuals help messages stand out better, especially on social media.

But what should you choose: a graph, animation, icons or an infographic? The starting point is always your core message, target audience and objective. Using these principles, you can work with a designer to determine the right format, or get to work yourself. Be critical: anything that doesn’t contribute can be left out. Fortunately, there are tools to help you quickly find the right direction.

Icons

A basic set of icons has been developed. This set can be downloaded from the Corporate Identity Platform.

Voorbeelden iconen

Checklist good data visualisation

Which form of data visualisation works for your message? A graph, an animation, an illustration or an infographic? This checklist helps you to go from question to briefing.

Briefing checklist data visualisation

Which requirements does data visualisation have to meet?

  • It clarifies something or provides a substantive insight that cannot be clarified in any other way, such as with text or photography.
  • The style is recognisable as UU.
  • The visualisation has a clear message and shows in one glance what this message is. One example of this is a catchy title.
  • It has a relevant context. Separate numbers and facts, for example, can lack that context.

Do you need advice? Pay a visit to the Brand team, we love to help you.
With examples, advice or design capacity.