Ahhh Visualize!
So I have google alerts set up for any term that I want to either, one, learn more about, or two, keep track of because I know it’s going to be big. The term “Visualization” is on my list.
What is visualization? Like web 2.0, many people have different ideas of what it means. Here’s an internet rule of thumb: when in doubt, use wikipedia.
So without further ado, Visualization is any technique for creating images, diagrams or animations to communicate a message. That’s one heck of a definition. Why? It’s so broad? Regardless, I like it. And it’s a fact since it’s wikipedia ;o)
So why is visualization on my list? Because if you haven’t already heard, it’s going to be big. Anything that makes the lives of others easier is going to be valuable. Visualization makes ones life better because it saves them the most valuable resource of all–time.
Reading takes time. Writing takes time, too. Well…for most people. Not me though, because I make stuff up 
No but seriously, reading takes a lot of time. And, the best way to communicate a message today (and since the inception of this world) are pictures.
The visualizations we see today can be represented in complex data (spend an hour on many eyes by IBM by clicking here) or in simple behavioral patterns (sign up for mint.com. Do it. Don’t object. I know you’re objecting. Stop it. Click here).
So, why is visualization going to be big?
1) Technology today enables more ruthlessly profound visualizations
2) It makes life easier for the end-user (aka viewer)
What makes reading this post useful is by posing the following question to yourself:
How can I adopt visualization into my business, school or personal life?
Think of an answer, act on it and I promise you that your end-users (aka viewers) will like you at least 1% more.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I love people and organizations that visualize well, I would like to see more companies visualize what they can do and what I can do for them, insteaf of having to read, read and read to maybe figure out slowly if this is of interest or not.