A lollipop chart is a novel spin on the classic and universally appreciated bar chart. Applicable in the same situations as the illustrious bar chart, lollipops serve the same purpose but have the added benefit of cutting back on unnecessary clutter. When your data has a large number of data points being compared or you’re just aiming for a simpler visualization (that saves on ink!) a lollipop chart stands out as a strong alternative.
Some research (Blasio & Bisantz, 2002) even shows that lollipop design can lead to faster response times and greater accuracy (Gillan & Richman, 1994). Some other studies have shown (Inbar, Tractinsky & Meyer, 2007) that lollipop charts are not viewed as visually appealing as the timeless bar chart. As time goes on and these new minimalists styles of data visualization command more mainstream use, who knows what the future holds?
Below is a chart showing the percent of National GDP each of the top ten states makes up:
A simple, no-frills method that shows the single important value for each data point clearly and quickly, that is the strength of the lollipop chart.
I like how your post provided a clear explanation on the use of the lollipop chart and the advantages versus traditional bar charts.
I also appreciate how you referenced studies by Blasio & Bisantz, as well as, Gillan & Richman, adding backed up research on the subject.
Have you considered or explored other types of data, ones that provide different variables?