Data Visualisation Tool Inventory

This is a curated, purpose-first catalogue. It exists so that when a task arrives, the right tool can be located by jumping to the matching section rather than reasoning from scratch.

This is a guide, not a cage. Every entry here has been validated as a sensible default for its category. If none of them fit, reach for whatever works — but start here, because the categories below cover the overwhelming majority of real-world dataviz work.

How to use

1. Identify the task's primary purpose from the section headings below (e.g. "Graph / network", "Geospatial maps", "Story-driven animation").
2. Jump to that section.
3. Pick from the listed tools — each entry notes the sweet spot.
4. If nothing in the matching section fits, scan adjacent sections before going off-inventory.

1. Static publication figures (Python / R / C++)

For print, PDF reports, journal figures, Typst embeds — anywhere the output is a high-DPI PNG / SVG / PDF.