PLoS Biology (Jun 2016)

From Static to Interactive: Transforming Data Visualization to Improve Transparency.

  • Tracey L Weissgerber,
  • Vesna D Garovic,
  • Marko Savic,
  • Stacey J Winham,
  • Natasa M Milic

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.1002484
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 6
p. e1002484

Abstract

Read online

Data presentation for scientific publications in small sample size studies has not changed substantially in decades. It relies on static figures and tables that may not provide sufficient information for critical evaluation, particularly of the results from small sample size studies. Interactive graphics have the potential to transform scientific publications from static reports of experiments into interactive datasets. We designed an interactive line graph that demonstrates how dynamic alternatives to static graphics for small sample size studies allow for additional exploration of empirical datasets. This simple, free, web-based tool (http://statistika.mfub.bg.ac.rs/interactive-graph/) demonstrates the overall concept and may promote widespread use of interactive graphics.