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What is A Data Visualization Tool? Here Are Your Top 10 Choices

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graphs and charts

Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics are among the sought-after careers in recent years. Data science is a booming career path, too. However, analyzing large volumes of data isn’t always simple. Sometimes, data sets are so large and complicated that it is almost impossible to understand their purpose. That’s why every data scientist needs a powerful data visualization tool.

Data Visualization Overview 

In any data-driven enterprise, data visualization is essential. It translates data into visuals, making it easier to recognize and understand. Data visualization also helps teams make crucial business decisions and create realistic insights about the business. Data visualizations apply to annual reports, sales reports, dashboards, marketing materials, and any information that requires immediate interpretation.

Many data visualization tools help data scientists perform their job efficiently. A good data visualization tool should be easy-to-use and versatile, allowing them to visualize data differently depending on business needs. In addition, a data visualization tool provides designers with a more straightforward process for creating visual representations of large data sets. Below are the top ten data visualization tools for data scientists. 

1. Tableau 

Tableau homepage

Tableau is a visual analytics tool that aims to transform how we use data to solve problems. The platform has different options, such as a desktop app, server and hosted online versions and a free public version. Similarly, it has hundreds of data import choices, including CSV files, Google Ads and Analytics data, and Salesforce data.

The Tableau public version is free to use for individuals seeking a powerful way to create data visualizations. 

2. Infogram

Infogram homepage

Infogram is a drag-and-drop visualization tool that allows designers and non-designers to create compelling data visualizations for infographics, dashboards, maps, marketing reports, social media posts, and more. This visualization tool also offers a WordPress plugin that makes embedding visualizations easier for WordPress users.

3. ChartBlocks

ChartBlocks homepage

ChartBlocks says it can import data from “anywhere” using its API, including live feeds. While some say importing data from any source can be done in a few clicks, it’s expected to become more complicated than other apps.

ChartBlocks allows for extensive customization of the final visualization created, and the chart building wizard helps users pick precisely the correct data for their charts before importing the data.

4. Google Charts 

Google Charts homepage

Google Charts is a powerful and free data visualization tool for making interactive charts. The app works with dynamic data, and the outputs are more on HTML5 and SVG, so they work in browsers without using additional plugins. It can accommodate data sources, including Google Spreadsheets, Google Fusion Tables, Salesforce, and other SQL databases.

5. Datawrapper

Datawrapper homepage

Datawrapper was explicitly created for integrating maps and charts into news articles. The charts and maps created are interactive, making them perfect for embedding on news portals. However, their data sources are limited, with the primary method of copying and pasting data into the tool.

Datawrapper visualization types include column, line, and bar charts, election donuts, area charts, scatter plots, choropleth and symbol maps, and locator maps. Several publications, including Mother Jones, Fortune, and The Times, use their charts.

6. D3.js

D3 data visualization homepage

D3.js is a JavaScript library for analyzing documents through data. It requires at least an overview of javascript (JS). Some of its advantages are:

  • Powerful and customizable
  • Large number of chart types possible
  • Focuses on web standards
  • Tools available to allow even non-programmers to create visualizations
  • Free and open source

7. FusionCharts

Fusion charts homepage

FusionCharts is also a JavaScript-based tool for designing web and mobile dashboards. It consists of more than 150 charts and 1,000 types of maps. It can work with popular JS frameworks (including React, jQuery, React, Ember, and Angular) and server-side programming languages (including PHP, Java, Django, and Ruby on Rails).

FusionCharts gives ready-to-use code for all chart and map variations, making it easier to embed in websites even for those designers with limited programming knowledge. FusionCharts is also one of our list’s most powerful data visualization tools.

8. Chart.js

chart js homepage

Chart.js is a simple but flexible JavaScript charting library. It’s open source, provides a variety of chart types (eight total), and allows for animation and interaction.

Chart.js uses HTML5 Canvas for output, rendering charts well across all modern browsers. Graphs are also responsive, so it’s excellent for creating mobile-friendly visualizations.

9. Grafana

Grafanalabs homepage

Grafana is open-source visualization software that lets users create dynamic dashboards and other visualizations. It supports mixed data sources, annotations, customizable alert functions, and plugins. That makes Grafana one of the most robust visualization tools available.

Export functions allow designers to share snapshots of dashboards as well as invite other users to collaborate. Grafana supports over 50 data sources via plugins. 

10. Polymaps

Polymaps homepage

Polymaps is a dedicated JavaScript library for mapping. The outputs are dynamic, responsive maps in various styles. Polymaps uses SVG to create the images, so designers can use CSS to customize the visuals of their maps.

Honorable Mentions 

Conclusion

With the large selection of visualization tools, designers may find it hard to decide which one to use. However, designers should note essential features like being user-friendly and applicability to their specific requirements. Most data visualization tools include free trials, so it’s worth trying a few before deciding on a single platform.

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Technology

The Best Telescopes of 2025 for the BEST Viewing Experience

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best telescopes of 2025

The James Webb telescope caused quite a stir when it was launched in 2021. More so when the first pictures from it were released to the public, causing major stargazing envy for us who don’t have access to something that spectacular. For all the astrophiles out there, wouldn’t it be great to get your hands on something similar? Here is our list of the best telescopes of 2025.

1. Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ

best telescopes of 2025

If you’re new to stargazing and planet viewing, the Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ is one of the best telescopes in 2025. Many experts recommend this telescope for beginner and experienced stargazers. It’s easy to set up because of the tripod and user-friendly controls. 

Technical specs and inclusions:

  • 102 mm primary mirror
  • StarPointer red dot finderscope
  • Two eyepieces
  • Lightweight and sturdy frame
  • Tripod

Price: $269.66

Buy it on Amazon here.

2. Sky-watcher Skymax 127 

best telescopes of 2025

Sky-watcher is another popular name in the telescope biz. Astrophotographers can surely get a bang for their buck with this telescope because of the crisp images it produces. Even on the darkest nights, stargazers can definitely see planets and stars thanks to a coated corrector plate.

Technical specs and inclusions:

  • Borosilicate primary mirror
  • Vixen-style dovetail
  • 2-in 28 mm eyepiece
  • 90-degree star diagonal
  • 6×30 finderscope

Price: $610

Buy it on Amazon here.

3. Vaonis Stellina

best telescopes of 2025

Although many stargazers swear by traditional telescopes, The Vaonis Stellina changed the game on its release. It’s an automatic telescope that takes photos of the sky for you. You can see beautiful views of deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae. Plus, you’ll even get a better glimpse of the moon.

Unlike most telescopes, the Stellina isn’t heavy. It’s so small and light you can pretty much bring it anywhere. However, it being an automatic telescope means you will have to pay a much higher price than its competitors. Still, it’s considered one of the best telescopes in 2025.

Technical Specs and inclusions:

  • 5 hours of use
  • Tripod
  • 80 mm aperture
  • 400 mm focal length
  • 3096 x 2080 px images

Price: $1,409

Buy it on eBay here.

4. Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ

best telescopes of 2025

Here’s another Celestron that made this list. But what makes the Celestron Starsense Explore DX 130 AZ different from the AstroMaster AZ? You can connect the Starsense Explore to an app, and it tells you the locations of certain stars in space. Plus, you’ll know what stars and planets are in the sky, depending on where you’re pointing this telescope at.

The app is compatible with all iOS and Android devices.

Technical Specs and inclusions:

  • 130 mm optical tube
  • two eyepieces (25 mm and 10 mm Kellner eyepieces)
  • Red dot finderscope
  • Smartphone dock
  • Tripod

Price: $354.05

Buy it on Amazon here.

5. Orion SpaceProbe II

best telescopes of 2025

If you want another beginner-friendly telescope, the Orion SpaceProbe II is one of your best options. It’s one of the most affordable telescopes, and kids and adults can use the SpaceProbe II to navigate the skies and watch stars and planets. You can even see a better view of the Moon, Saturn’s rings, and Jupiter’s moons!

Technical Specs and inclusions:

  • 76 mm aperture
  • Newtonian optical design
  • Red-dot reflex sight
  • MoonMap 260

Price: $99.99

Buy it on Amazon here.

And for other stories and news, read more here at Owner’s Mag!

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Lifestyle

Should I Buy an Electric Scooter? What You Can Learn

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person riding a scooter

Have you wondered if buying an electric scooter for short rides is a worthwhile investment? As more people and communities turn to alternative transportation, the shift is often driven by a desire to reduce their carbon footprints and enjoy added convenience. This growing trend has many asking the question, “should I buy an electric scooter?” From electric bikes to unicycles, there’s a lot you can learn and gain when choosing an e-scooter for your daily commute.

Learning to ride a scooter is easy

should I buy an electric scooter like this?

To learn how to ride your electric scooter is surprisingly easy. The learning curve is so low you can start cruising down the road in a short time. The Gotrax GXL V2 e-scooter is a good choice for beginners. It is affordable at just around $349 and can get you to work and back in a single charge. If you’re wondering whether you should buy an electric scooter, this model is a great place to start.

Once you finish the easy assembly and four-hour charging, you can already use it. It has the usual handbrake and bell on the left side. On the right sits a thumb throttle which you simply turn to gain speed and keep your balance. 

You should lower your speed when stopping. This is because the higher your speed is when braking will result in the tires wearing out quickly. You will then need maintenance which can be expensive.

Turing is easy, but you need to do it with care. With both hands on the handlebars, signaling may not be possible. This is why many high-end e-scooters have features with light-up signals for this purpose.

Get additional but helpful features

Some considerations include features such as the signal lights mentioned above, suspensions, thicker tires, or more powerful motors. These will help you navigate bumpy roads, steep inclines, and uneven terrain.

When buying e-scooters, you should also consider the battery, waterproofing of the scooter, or portability. These are investments that can make your rides safer and more comfortable. 

Consider your city’s laws

Before buying that electric scooter, check out your town or city’s laws about speed limits or the use of these EVs in general. Most budget-friendly scooters can travel up to25 km/h, but it’s still a good idea to know what your limitations are to prevent problems with the law.

Nighttime riding can also be a cause for concern if you plan on doing much of it. You may have to invest in headlights and reflectors to safely enjoy riding at night. You can also get helmets that already have lights and reflectors on them.

An electric scooter is faster and fun

Should I buy an electric scooter?

Not only will you see huge savings on gas, but you’ll also be enjoying your rides with an electric scooter. These may be the two main reasons the EV craze has hit many towns and cities. The feel of the wind on your whole body while on it gives an exhilarating feeling that driving a car won’t ever duplicate.

Getting out of traffic quickly and efficiently is also a perk of having to ride an e-scooter. If you don’t have a lot to carry, an e-scooter is the best mode of transportation for short rides. However, you can also opt for a bag attachment that will allow you to bring a few items and small cargo when riding.

You’ll be addicted to it

Be warned: casual riding in your electric scooter can be addicting and leave you wanting more. This may be the exact reason add-ons are popular, while upgrading to higher-end models seems to be the norm for some people. After a few rides, you would see yourself wanting to get a particular feature and opting for more power and speed. So, as an answer to the question, should I buy an electric scooter? You should say yes!

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Technology

Best Workflow Mapping Tools for Smarter Business Processes

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people in a meeting

Workflow or process mapping remains a vital strategy for managing and optimizing daily operations in any organization. By using symbols and shapes to illustrate tasks, decisions, and processes, workflow maps help teams visualize their work and identify areas for improvement.

Today, a wide range of workflow mapping tools are available, many of them free or affordable, offering smart, fast, and collaborative ways to streamline your business. Below are the top nine workflow mapping tools to help you stay organized, efficient, and ahead of the curve.

1. MindMeister 

midmeister

MindMeister is a collaborative workflow mapping tool ideal for brainstorming and process planning. It allows real-time collaboration with customizable diagrams. However, the free version limits you to three mind maps. Upgrading unlocks unlimited maps, export options, and team features.

Key Features

  • Real-time collaboration
  • Auto-generated mind map layouts
  • Customizable themes and structure

Pricing

  • Basic – Free
  • Personal – $3.50/month
  • Pro – $5.50/month
  • Business – $8.50/month

2. GitMind

gitmind

Here’s another workflow mapping software that you can use for free. GitMind is a powerful workflow mapping tool for teams and individuals. It comes with dozens of templates and customization options for creating mind maps, flowcharts, and more. It’s compatible with browsers, Windows, and Mac, and now includes improved team collaboration options.

Features

  • Flexible shape, font, and color customization
  • Template library for quick design
  • Project sharing via link
  • Exports to multiple formats

Pricing

  • Basic – $4.08/month billed annually
  • Pro – $5.75/month billed annually
  • Ultra – $11.58/month, billed annually
  • Business – $170.00/month, billed annually (10 seats)

3. Creately

Workflow Mapping Tool creately

Creately remains a favorite workflow mapping tool for remote teams. It supports business process modeling with real-time collaboration and dozens of industry-specific templates. It works across desktop, web, and mobile platforms.

Features

  • Remote collaboration and commenting
  • Industry-specific templates (marketing, engineering, etc.)
  • Works online and offline
  • Real-time syncing

Pricing

  • Personal – $5/month
  • Team – $5/month
  • Business – $89 /month
  • Enterprise – custom pricing

4. Gliffy

gliffy

Gliffy is a beginner-friendly workflow mapping tool known for its intuitive interface. It’s ideal for users who want to quickly design flowcharts and diagrams with minimal learning curve.

Features

  • Drag-and-drop design with themes
  • Version control and undo history
  • Easy sharing for social media or team collaboration

Pricing

Gliffy Diagrams for Confluence

  • Up to 10 Users – Free
  • 11-100 Users – $3.80/month per user, billed annually

Gliffy Diagrams for Jira

  • Up to 10 Users – Free
  • 11-100 Users – 3.80/month per user, billed annually

5. Visual Paradigm

Workflow Mapping Tool visual paradigm

Unlike other workflow mapping tools in our list, Visual Paradigm helps users to visualize organizational processes while enjoying IT development features. It’s a robust workflow mapping tool for IT and software development teams. It supports UML, BPMN, and SysML diagrams and includes animation features for dynamic presentations.

Features

  • Tools for Agile and enterprise modeling
  • Supports UML, BPMN, SysML
  • Diagram animations for presentations

Pricing

Subscription:

  • Modeler – $6/month
  • Standard – $19/month
  • Professional – $35/month
  • Enterprise – $89/month

Perpetual:

  • Modeler – $99/month
  • Standard – $349/month
  • Professional – $799/month
  • Enterprise – $1999/month

6. Google Drawings 

Workflow Mapping Tool google drawings

Google Drawings is a free and easy-to-use workflow mapping tool that integrates seamlessly with Google Drive. It’s ideal for basic flowcharts and diagrams without advanced features.

Features

  • Cloud-based with autosave
  • Basic shapes and connectors
  • Unlimited storage via Google Drive

Pricing

Free

7. Canva

Workflow Mapping Tool canva

Canva has evolved into a comprehensive workflow mapping tool with stunning visuals and drag-and-drop simplicity. It includes a growing collection of flowchart templates and AI design tools. Though there are a number of Canva alternatives out there, it continues to be one of the top graphic design platforms online.

Features

  • Beautiful templates for process maps
  • Upload and embed attachments
  • Team collaboration and brand kits

Pricing

  • Canva Free – $0
  • Canva Pro – $120 per year 
  • Canva for Teams –$300 per year for 3 persons

8. Cacoo

Workflow Mapping Tool cacoo

Cacoo is a real-time collaborative workflow mapping tool designed for teams. It includes multi-user editing, cloud storage, and integration with popular project management platforms.

Features

  • Simultaneous editing
  • Activity tracking
  • Exports to PNG, PDF, etc.

Pricing

  • Free 
  • Pro  – $6.00 per month 
  • Team – $6.00 per user per month, up to 1,000 users

9. Visme 

visme

Visme is a versatile workflow mapping tool that blends design and data. It allows users to build animated diagrams, infographics, and presentations with interactivity and branded design.

Features

  • Create animated and interactive process maps
  • Public, private, or password-protected content
  • Online and offline support

Pricing

  • Basic – Free 
  • Starter -$12.25/month, billed yearly
  • Pro – $24.75/month, billed yearly
  • Visme for Teams – contact sales

Final Thoughts 

Workflow mapping tools are your key to successful work management. It enables you to spot flaws quickly and, as a result, enhance your workflow processes. Also, they let you avoid mistakes, design workflows or procedures faster, and provide quality products and services. The majority of these tools can be used for free.

However, you’ll need to purchase premium subscriptions to gain full access to some of these tools. It might be best to test them out first and see if it works for your needs (check if they offer free trials) before committing to a subscrption.

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