Data Visualization in Ukrainian Media: Typical Errors and Communicative Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.28925/2524-2652.2026.111Abstract
The contemporary media landscape is characterised by a rapid increase in the volume of data analysed by journalists. At the same time, data visualization has become an integral tool for presenting information and shaping meaning in media publications. Large volumes of data can be transformed into a single static or dynamic visualization that is often more expressive than text. In this context, the quality of visual data representation in the media becomes particularly important, especially given the prevalence of common errors that affect the accuracy of data interpretation and the overall effectiveness of communication with mass audiences. The purpose of the study is to identify typical errors in data visualization in Ukrainian media and to determine their communicative implications. To achieve this aim, a set of methods was employed, including content analysis of media materials, the comparative-descriptive method, and elements of visual analysis. The empirical basis of the study consists of examples of data visualizations published in Ukrainian online media. The study identifies the main types of errors, including the incorrect use of color, visual clutter, inappropriate chart types, the absence of essential components (such as data sources, legends, and axis labels), and violations of scale and proportionality. Such errors complicate the process of information decoding, may lead to misinterpretation, reduce communication effectiveness, and undermine trust in media content. It is also emphasised that, in the digital environment, data visualizations can function as independent units of content, being disseminated across media platforms or social networks separately from the original text, often without additional clarification or explanation. This increases the importance of accurate and responsible graphical representation of data. The findings emphasise the importance of following basic information design principles and improving journalists’ visual literacy.
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