I built a Tableau map visualization using real-world data I scraped with a Python script I wrote from scratch. The project helped me learn how to transform raw data into insight—and gave me hands-on experience with both data collection and visual storytelling.
What I did
I built a Tableau map visualization based on a dataset that wasn’t readily available in structured form. To access the data, I used Python (with help from ChatGPT) to write a simple web scraper, cleaned the results, and then used Tableau to design an interactive dashboard with geographic filters and insights.
Why I did it
I wanted to learn Tableau in a real-world context – not just by following a tutorial. I also wanted to examine a version of a moving data set, as it tells a different type of story. By tackling a project end-to-end, I got a better sense of how data visualization fits into the broader process of sourcing, cleaning, and analyzing data, especially when it’s not handed to you in a spreadsheet.
What I learned
I gained a much clearer understanding of how raw data becomes usable insight. I also learned the basics of Python scraping, improved my data cleaning skills, and became more comfortable designing visualizations that emphasize clarity and interactivity. Most importantly, I saw how technical exploration builds empathy for the students and professionals our company serves.
