New tools for data visualization are frequently released. Many are free, some can be downloaded (vs. web 2.0), and others evolve with time. The ones described below are a fraction of what is available.

You can find more listed on my Delicious account: http://delicious.com/tlricherson. Use the tags for "data," "visualization," and "tools" to filter the results.

Build a story

• Read Resonate by Nancy Duarte to "present visual stories that transform audiences."
• Extend your knowledge base by developing SlideDocs for effective visual documents.

Select a chart

• Read about the basics of chart design.
  

• Choosing a Good Chart from the Extreme Presentation Method can help you decide which visualization format best suits your data. This downloadable one-sheet is available in multiple languages.

• A Periodic Table of Visualization Methods gives you several categories and examples of ways to use information, as does the data visualization catalogue.

• Visualization Options from Many Eyes: A web-based tool with a variety of both familiar and unfamiliar ways to visualize both quantitative and qualitative data.

• Exploratree gives you many choices for graphic organizers---a great way to begin moving into more visualizations.

• The definitive site for free visual tools and devices also includes support tools. It is maintained by Karl Gude of Michigan State University's School of Journalism. 

Apply formatting

• Read about Choosing Colors. Then, make use of the Colorbrewer to preview how different shades of color will impact a visualization. Or, use the Colorpicker, Color Scheme Designer or Kuler to help select color themes.
• Download and use The Elements of Design and Color Theory quick reference sheets.
• Use a file converter to check your visuals for accessibility for those with color vision issues.
  

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