Vizdat: A Technology Probe to Understand the Space of Discussion Around Data Visualization on Reddit

Visualizations play a considerable role in explaining trends or providing evidence when consuming data online. Whether those visualizations are shared on news outlets social networks, platforms usually allow readers to discuss their stories comments sections. For the scope of this work, we studied online communityr/dataisbeautiful Reddit. We found that chart creators were using variety authoring tools share content. Readers these posts,commenters, used text mainly and critique visual noticed need for richer mode communication would show instead telling authors what do. Based our findings, introducedVizdat, lightweight tool extension users visualize reproduce charts sections stories. usedVizdat as atechnology probe with 11 Reddit create visualization onr/dataisbeautiful. During four-week field deployment period, observed howVizdat was interviewed participants. thatcommenters saw value accessing specifications throughVizdat structure replies modalities. As result, visualizationauthors appreciated feedback less toxic discussion provided through embedded modified versions charts. In paper, findings other insights understand dynamics forum around