Data visualization evolves at DOH

Communicating effectively with data is a key component of many Transformational Plan strategies. The Data Visualization section of the new Center for Data Science (CDS) is a great resource for all agency teams interested in visualizing their public health data using visually appealing dashboards.

As part of the agency’s Data Modernization Initiative, the goal for the Center for Data Science is to “democratize data” and make it more easily accessible—and therefore, actionable—for decision makers who are often non-scientists.

The CDS Data Visualization section evolved from the team that took over development and maintenance of the COVID-19 Data Dashboard in 2020. Since then, they have grown in both size and expertise, expanding from the original focus on COVID-19 to new efforts, such as the internal and public-facing Opioid and Drug Overdose Dashboards, and several other internal dashboards that help agency teams gain better insights into their data.

The CDS Data Visualization section is currently composed of three sub-teams, including:

• Data Transformation and Delivery: Responsible for processing the data underneath our dashboards and visualizations, using various analytical tools to make our super-fast and high-performance data dashboards possible.
• Visual Development and Design: Focuses on creating data visualizations and interactive dashboard products that are inclusive and available for diverse audiences. Their expertise goes beyond using dashboarding tools; they are dashboard design experts who take complex data and turn it into easy-to-understand, intuitive, and user-friendly data dashboards.
• Technical Support, Training, and Outreach: Handles sharing our products with internal public health partners, local health jurisdictions, tribal partners, and the public. They also provide technical support and training for teams wanting to learn more.

Contact the CDS Visualization section at CDS-Dashboards@doh.wa.gov with any questions.