Vibe Analysis: Exploring LLM Adoption by Data Visualization Practitioners

A process diagram of three interlinked sections. One describes aspects of the interaction environment, a second describes aspects of the large language model, and the third describes aspects of data visualization. In the background, impacting all, are the external factors like cost, ethical considerations and time constraints.
Conceptual model of vibe analysis with portions inspired by the data storytelling lifecycle and the vibe coding cycle. This is an author-developed synthesis informed by the interview analysis and these existing models.
Abstract
Large language models (LLMs) are enticing in their promise to support data visualization (Vis) through faster and simpler workflows for data prep, analysis, and visualization creation. Yet LLMs are notoriously error-prone and not built for data visualization tasks. Few studies have explored LLM adoption among Vis practitioners. To fill this gap, we conducted semi-structured interviews with members of the Data Visualization Society, a global community of data visualization designers. Our findings show that Vis designers actively use LLMs for both creative and technical aspects of the visualization process. A new visualization workflow is emerging, a process we call vibe analysis, analogous to vibe coding. Some key challenges raised by participants parallel those of vibe coding, while others are Vis-specific, like gaps in Vis knowledge and chart verification. This work opens up opportunities for research combining LLM-mediated work with Vis tools that incorporate data visualization guidance, constraints, and best practices.
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Khoury Vis Lab — Northeastern University
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