Following our user evaluation studies, our research team created a narrative introduction video explaining the air quality index. This 2-minute video outlines the fundamental concept of the air quality index, introducing the six pollutants that dictate the air quality pollution rate. We made sure to present each pollutant with its unique unit of measurement, highlighting the complexity that existed before the standardized AQI was established. The objective of this video is to assist the audience in comprehending the reasoning behind the development of the air quality index standard.
The initial animation video emphasizes storytelling rather than interactive data visualization, aiming to improve the audience’s comprehension before direct data engagement. Additionally, storytelling-type information is organized more structurally and concisely, also warming audiences up for following data explorations.
Our subsequent step involves advancing these components. The plan is to illustrate the process of calculating each pollutant’s individual AQI and subsequently determining the overall AQI based on the highest individual pollutant value. Additionally, we will demonstrate how the highest value becomes the reported AQI for a specific location and time, signifying the overall air quality status. For this complex calculation, we will utilize an interactive chart built with d3.
Subsequently, we plan to utilize our AQI’s historical data API to enable the audience to analyze the yearly and monthly air quality trends. Lastly, by encouraging the audience to connect potential news events during periods of high AQI scores, we aim to create a personal connection and foster conversations among the audience. This approach intends to arouse curiosity about the causes behind high AQI scores and how individuals can take preventive measures.