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 Website Review: Visual Economics
Tallulah Habib
Unravelling complexities in financial data,
with pictures.
As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words and sometimes it's just easier to understand information presented in a graphic. This is a general rule we accept whenever we are following street signs or trying to find the toilet in a crowded mall, but one that is seldom applied when it comes to complex matters such as politics and the economy.
This is what makes Visual Economics so refreshing. Visual Economics (www.visualeconomics.com) is a website dedicated to presenting financial information in simple, visual form, especially for those of us without economics degrees.
“In today’s complicated world, information is coming at you from every direction,” explains the site. “Television, print and the internet are a powerful trifecta of data delivery systems that can confuse, overwhelm, and discourage people from really getting to the heart of what they want and need to know.
“When you are trying to understand the complex world of finances and economics, sometimes simplicity is key.”
Of course, much of the information is United States-centric as that is where the site is based. However, much of it can be applied globally. Recent posts include: “How the world spends its time online”, “Cost & Effects of The BP Oil Spill” and “Censorship: China Versus the World”.
The statistical data is pulled from reliable sources such as Nielsen, but if there is any doubt as to the validity of the facts, you can post a comment (or “reaction”) on the article.
The site provides two sub-sections: CDs (certificates of deposit) and Savings Accounts, with additional information for personal banking specifically. These sections provide articles – often with accompanying graphics – that explain concepts in small non-business jargon words.
Of course, the downside, as already mentioned, is that most of the financial advice is particularly relevant in the US. However, the world's economy is now more tightly linked than ever and you may find, due to globalisation, the advice will still be useful to you, wherever you are.
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