post your thoughts on designalogue

Senior Adam Tramposh poses this question about the visualization of information on designalogue:

"Edward Tufte, a leading authority on the display of quantitative information, is very explicit in stating that any graphic elements not in support of content are superfluous. "chart junk" is the term used to describe excessive attention to aesthetics over clearly representing meaningful visual associations between data.

That doesn't leave much room for distinct personal flair. Do you believe, as Tufte does, that "best practice" should be strictly adhered to when it comes to displaying information, or is there some room for more expressive form?"

Do you agree/disagree? Since y'all are working with data visualization in info arch (PLUS, you are currently developing diagrams for type), please post a response to Adam's question (on designalogue) that indicates your own point of view.