Core Argument - Graphic design, particularly color usage, is crucial for effective communication across language, generational, and cultural barriers [1][2] - In science, figures often complicate understanding due to misuse of color, hindering effective science communication [4][5] - Scientific color maps are essential for accurate and inclusive data visualization, impacting various fields from climate reports to medical imaging [6][7] Color in Data Visualization - Color serves as an information carrier in data visualization, exemplified by temperature maps where colors represent numeric values [8][9][10] - Bad color scales distort data by unevenly representing changes in value, leading to misinterpretation [11][12][13] - Scientific color maps ensure even color changes along the scale, preventing visual distortion and ensuring data accuracy [14][17] Accessibility and Inclusivity - Accessibility is critical in scientific visualization, considering individuals with color vision deficiency [18][20][21] - Scientific color maps should be perceptually uniform, color vision deficiency-friendly, and readable in black and white [21][22] - Accessible designs in science communication, especially in public health, are a responsibility to ensure information reaches everyone [23][24] Recommendations - The industry should use scientific color maps that are accessible and accurate [25] - The industry should avoid relying solely on color, incorporating textures, patterns, and labels to indicate important data features [25] - The industry should test figures using online simulators for color vision deficiency or converting them to black and white [25] - Universities should prioritize teaching graphic design and data visualization as essential scientific methodologies [26][27]