Chapter 2. A Network Graph Framework

As one embarks on the task of creating a network graph, it quickly becomes apparent that neither is there a shortage of topics to visualize, nor is there a lack of data detailing many potential sets of network relationships. The more difficult task is to determine what we choose to visualize and how to move from a simple idea to a finished graph. In this chapter, you will be exposed to a proposed framework that details how this author goes through the entire process from the initial idea to a final published graph. The chapter will then take you through an actual example, where we can begin creating a network graph together.

In the following sections, I will discuss my personal approach to create a finished graph using the following:

After completing the process, we'll create and export our own graph. By the end of the chapter, you should be comfortable with a general process to prepare and create network graphs using either the steps presented in this chapter, or through using a flow of your own creation.