Data Visualization and Storytelling with AI: Design Visuals That Drive Better Decisions

Many professionals know how to build charts, but fewer know how to use them to clearly communicate insights. In this course, learn practical principles for turning data visualizations into clear, focused visuals that help audiences quickly understand what matters. Join data storytelling expert Morgan Depenbusch as she explores the difference between exploratory and explanatory charts, how to choose the right chart type for your message, and how to simplify visuals so the key takeaway stands out. Along the way, discover techniques for emphasizing important information using titles, annotations, and visual hierarchy. Finally, you’ll learn how to structure slides so each one communicates a single clear message with the right context and implications. By the end of this course, you’ll be prepared to create charts that make your insights easier for decision-makers to understand and act on.

Learning objectives
Distinguish between exploratory and explanatory charts and determine when each should be used to communicate data insights.
Design charts that highlight the key takeaway, using visual best practices such as simplifying visuals and emphasizing the most important data.
Write takeaway-focused titles that clearly communicate the insight behind the data.
Use annotations and visual emphasis to guide audiences’ attention.
Add the right context to help audiences interpret numbers accurately, including comparisons, benchmarks, and trends over time.