I'm a visual / info designer and data analyst. I am an expert in Illustrator. I want to transition into dynamic data visualization. Preferably I want to utilize my vector files and connect them to a database. Having said that I want to become versed in data visualization programming.
What Route? I have tested 'processing' via an introductory lesson -- it's similar to the logic in Illustrator. I am considering d3.js. It looks like the consensus is to do a combination of 'processing' and d3. What program should I start with (knowing that I want to utilize my vector files).
Thank you in advance!
I give my vote for d3js and I'll share my learning tips. I was a beginner with d3.js when I suddenly I had to implement charts, widgets and "nice" (translation: complicated) visualization stuff.
Why d3? it runs in every browser of this era (IE9+) it requires no installation or plugins or special setup, just a couple of lines of code and you're good to go. And mobile phones can also run it with no extra effort.
The learning curve was horrible, but now that I know what I did wrong, I can share a better learning program to you.
Anyways, it all depends on your proficiency level of JavaScript, DOM and SVG.
I recommend d3.js. There are a lot of examples on the web to follow.
But you need to first learn the Basics of Javascript.
http://www.codecademy.com/tracks/javascript
http://www.w3schools.com/js/DEFAULT.asp
Once you have beginner level of Javascript, you can move to d3.js tutorials.
https://github.com/mbostock/d3/wiki/Tutorials
I made several interactive d3.js tutorials here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRJOPJMJE3OTcg5TNV6ZdbIDbFITu2OXu
Update: I've written new tutorials for beginners to learn both Javascript and data visualization:
http://blog.vida.io/2014/06/23/coding-visualization-tutorial-1-variables/ http://blog.vida.io/2014/06/23/coding-visualization-tutorial-2-functions/
Have fun!
If you love us? You can donate to us via Paypal or buy me a coffee so we can maintain and grow! Thank you!
Donate Us With