Data visualization is, roughly, the visual representation of information. From business executives and managers to business analysts or operations/manufacturing/supply chain managers, they all use charts, tables, histograms of other types of graphics to better visualize their data. Bar charts, line charts, scatter graphs and maps are simple examples of data visualization that have been used for decades.
On the second day of the PMA 2014 Conference, Dr. Aki Jääskeläinen, postdoctoral researcher and M.Sc. Juho-Matias Roitto, project researcher at Tampere University of Technology, Finland delivered a presentation named “Analysis of visualization techniques supporting performance measurement process”.
Performance reporting is no longer just a legal regulation for companies, as it has become an instrument to improve brand image through transparency and by showing interest not only in the financial area, but also towards employees, environment and community.
Data visualization is an important part in reporting performance, as it can enhance a fast and clear understanding of the situation. However, poorly designed graphs can create confusion. The best way to reflect results is to keep the graphic representations as simple as possible and to provide the most relevant information for the reader.
Just half of century ago, patient records in the medical practice were kept in the form of traditional written / typed documents. One of the most important developments in the medical practice that was possible with the technological enhancement of computers and, later on, the internet, is considered to be the electronic medical record (EMR). Not only did it permit a better and easier management of patient information within the healthcare unit, but is also made possible the integration of patient intelligence at local or even national level, this integration being vital in the perspective of treating or moving the same patient to other hospitals.