Visualization best practices
- Select the appropriate visualization
- Line graphs are ideal for illustrating changes over time
- Use bar graphs to highlight differences between groups
- Pie charts work well for displaying proportions or parts of a whole
- Tables are best for presenting detailed or granular data
- Prioritize clarity in design
- Keep visuals clean and free of unnecessary elements
- Include informative, concise titles
- Provide explanatory text to give context
- Use relevant time spans that suit the data story
- Use Color Effectively
- Apply color to highlight key insights, not decorate
- Ensure colors are accessible for colorblind viewers
- Use consistent color schemes across charts
- Label Clearly
- Label axes and data points where needed
- Avoid clutter with strategic placement of labels
- Use legends only when necessary
- Know Your Audience
- Tailor visualizations to their level of expertise
- Focus on what matters most to them
- Avoid jargon and keep the narrative clear
- Tell a Data Story
- Build a narrative around the data
- Start with a key message or question
- Guide the viewer from setup to conclusion
- Avoid Misleading Visuals
- Start axes at zero when appropriate
- Maintain accurate proportions
- Avoid cherry-picking data or using biased scales
- Use Interactivity Wisely
- Allow filtering and zooming for deeper exploration
- Use tooltips for extra detail without clutter
- Keep interactions intuitive and user-friendly
9.Maintain Consistency
- Use consistent chart types, fonts, and formats
- Align visuals with your brand or reporting standards
- Ensure repeatable formatting across reports
- Test and Refine
- Get feedback from colleagues or test audiences
- Check if insights are immediately clear
- Iterate to improve clarity and impact