Tables, histograms, pie charts and bar graphs pass before our eyes on a regular basis. They are relatively simple to create in applications like PowerPoint, and relied upon to convey complex information. But we know they don’t always work as well as we’d like them to. Sometimes an idea demands an expression that’s more innovative, more compelling, and more fascinating. This is where a little data visualization can go a long way.

There are several excellent resources for data visualization out there. While a site like Infosthetics.com is no secret, there are several other inspiring blogs devoted to the topic of data visualization.  Flowing Data recently posted a short list of such sites. That post prompted a more comprehensive list at Random Etc. Mashable, a blog devoted to online social networks, shares in this post data visualization tools that serve as great alternatives to the typical chart. Smashing Magazine breaks new approaches to data visualization into four categories: Mind Maps, Displaying News, Displaying Data, and Displaying Connections.

The best solution will ultimately depend on your subject matter and your audience, but I like to visit these sites just to be inspired. You can always search infoviz+blogs on deli.cio.us for the latest resources and inspiration, too.

Graphic created with Visual Thesaurus.