Visualizations throughout pharmacoepidemiology study planning, implementation, and reporting

Transparency is increasingly promoted to instill trust in nonrandomized studies using real‐world data. Graphics and data visualizations support transparency by aiding communication and understanding, and can inform study design and analysis decisions. However, other than graphical representation of a study design and flow diagrams (e.g., a Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials [CONSORT] like diagram), specific standards on how to maximize validity and transparency with visualization are needed. This paper provides guidance on how to use visualizations throughout the life cycle of a pharmacoepidemiology study—from initial study design to final report—to facilitate rationalized and transparent decision‐making about study design and implementation, and clear communication of study findings. Our intent is to help researchers align their practices with current consensus statements on transparency.