Touch me Viz!
Touch Me Viz - Data Physicalisation
What is data physicalization?
Data physicalization means transforming abstract data into tangible objects. This is an exciting opportunity to better understand data, and not just for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Being able to touch and interact with data provides new insights and makes complex information easier to understand. The physical form of data makes it easier to grasp and use.
This method can help make better decisions, improve processes, and develop new ideas. Data physicalization therefore offers a real advantage for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Workshop "Touch Me Viz: Hands-On Data Physicalization @ Makers' Lab" at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences
The workshop "Touch Me Viz: Hands-On Data Physicalization @ Makers' Lab" took place at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences from June 24 to 28, 2024. Under the guidance of Wolfgang Aigner and Christoph Braun, participants created data physicalizations using 3D printers, laser cutters, and microcontrollers. Light was used for visualization through LED lamps and strips.
The workshop was structured as follows:
- Idea generation and concept development: Identifying the data to be visualized and designing an informative dashboard.
- Prototyping: Transforming ideas into concrete designs using various materials and tools.
- Data transformation: Selecting and processing relevant data using MS Excel and other tools.
- Production: Using all techniques and tools to complete the physical visualizations.
Results included, for example, an interactive weather box, a luminous visualization of electric cars and PV systems in Lower Austria, a multi-data dashboard for schools, and a visualization of air quality at various measuring stations.
The workshop "Touch Me Viz: Hands-On Data Physicalization @ Makers' Lab" was an enriching experience for all participants. Not only did they learn new techniques and tools, but they also developed a better understanding of how to transform abstract data into tangible objects. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application enabled the participants to fully explore their creativity and develop new approaches to solutions.
Added Value for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
For SMEs, data physicalisation offers an exciting way to make abstract data tangible and understandable. The combination of cutting-edge technology and creative craftsmanship makes it possible to experience and present data in a completely new way. By transforming data into physical objects, users, including many representatives from small and medium-sized enterprises, can identify different data patterns and trends that may not be immediately apparent in a purely digital form.
The success of the workshop lay not only in the technical skills the participants learned, but also in the creative atmosphere it fostered. Participants were encouraged to develop their own ideas and concepts, resulting in a variety of unique and innovative projects. Overall, the workshop "Touch Me Viz: Hands-On Data Physicalization @ Makers' Lab" impressively demonstrated how powerful and versatile data physicalization can be. It demonstrated that by combining technology and creativity, abstract data can be transformed into impressive and easily understandable physical forms. This opens up new possibilities for data visualization and offers an exciting glimpse into the future of this field, not only for SMEs.