How to switch from google chart tools to d3.js?

@filiberto 

Switching from Google Chart Tools to d3.js involves several steps. Here is a general guide to help you with the transition:

1. Familiarize yourself with d3.js: Start by learning the basics of d3.js, including its core concepts, syntax, and data-driven approach to visualization. There are numerous resources available, such as the official d3.js documentation, tutorials, and online courses.
2. Understand the differences: Google Chart Tools and d3.js have different philosophies and approaches to visualization. While Google Chart Tools provide a higher level of abstraction and simplify the creation of basic charts, d3.js offers more flexibility and customization options using SVG and JavaScript. Understand the key differences between the two libraries and their APIs.
3. Identify the charts to be converted: Determine which charts from your existing Google Chart Tools implementation you want to switch to d3.js. Since d3.js provides a wide range of chart types and customization options, you can recreate most of your Google Chart Tools charts in d3.js.
4. Prepare your data: Ensure that your data is in a suitable format for d3.js. Depending on your specific needs, you may need to restructure or transform your data to fit the format expected by d3.js.
5. Gradually transition your charts: Start by recreating one chart at a time using d3.js. Begin with simpler charts like bar charts or line charts, and then progress to more complex ones. Follow d3.js tutorials, code examples, and reference documentation to implement each chart type.
6. Adapt your code: Modify your existing code to fit the d3.js syntax and best practices. This involves rewriting the chart generation code, handling data binding, and defining interactions or animations using d3.js methods.
7. Customize your charts: Explore d3.js's powerful customization options to enhance your charts further. d3.js allows you to control every aspect of your visualization, from colors and labels to interactivity and transitions. Experiment and tweak your code to achieve the desired visual effects.
8. Test and debug: Test your d3.js charts across different browsers and devices to ensure compatibility and responsiveness. Debug any issues that may arise during the transition process.
9. Refactor your codebase: Once you have successfully transitioned your charts to d3.js, consider refactoring the rest of your codebase to leverage the full potential of d3.js. This may involve rewriting or adapting other parts of your application or website that rely on Google Chart Tools.

Remember that switching to d3.js requires time and effort to learn and apply its concepts effectively. Be prepared for a learning curve during the transition, but ultimately you will have a more flexible and powerful data visualization library at your disposal.