ColorWise: A Data Storyteller’s Guide to the Intentional Use of Color, by Kate Strachnyi, is a practical and insightful guide for anyone who works with data visualizations and wants to use color more effectively. The book addresses one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in data storytelling — color — and shows how it can be used with purpose to enhance clarity, engagement, and accessibility.
The book begins by exploring the foundational principles of color theory and how they apply to data visualization. Strachnyi explains how color influences perception and decision-making, and why understanding its psychological and cultural dimensions is essential for effective communication. She emphasizes that color should not be chosen randomly, but intentionally, to support the message being conveyed.
Strachnyi then introduces a variety of color techniques that can be applied to charts, graphs, dashboards, and infographics. These include strategies for choosing color palettes, using contrast to highlight key insights, and avoiding common pitfalls like overuse or misuse of color. She also provides guidance on how to design for accessibility, including tips for making visualizations readable for people with color vision deficiencies.
A key strength of the book is its balance between theory and practice. Strachnyi not only explains why certain color choices work, but also shows how to apply them in real-world scenarios. She includes examples and case studies that illustrate both effective and ineffective uses of color, helping readers develop a more critical eye.
The book also delves into the cultural and emotional meanings of different colors, offering insights into how color choices can resonate differently across audiences. This section encourages readers to think beyond aesthetics and consider the broader implications of their design decisions.
Throughout the book, Strachnyi maintains a clear and engaging tone, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a data analyst, designer, or business professional, the book offers actionable advice that can elevate the quality and impact of your visualizations.
ColorWise is more than a design manual, it’s a call to be intentional and thoughtful in how we use color to tell stories with data. By applying the principles in this book, readers can create visualizations that are not only beautiful, but also meaningful, inclusive, and effective.
About the author:
Kate Strachnyi is a leading voice in the data visualization and storytelling community, best known as the founder of DATAcated, a platform dedicated to educating and empowering data professionals. She has developed and delivered numerous courses on data storytelling, dashboard design, and visual best practices, with a strong focus on the intentional use of color in data communication.
Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Data Science and Analytics, Kate is also the host of the DATAcated Conference and the DATAcated On Air Podcast. Her work bridges the gap between technical insight and creative communication, helping individuals and organizations present data in ways that are clear, engaging, and impactful.
Link to buy: ColorWise: A Data Storyteller’s Guide to the Intentional Use of Color
+VIDEO:
#datavizmagic #books #datavisualization #datastorytelling