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Simplicity
Limit the number of elements used (lines, symbols, colours, textures)
Show trends instead of details. If details are important they can be supplied in a handout
Use noe more than three lines in a multiple line graph
Limit pie charts to five to seven sectors
Use one font style per image with three letter sizes within this.
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Emphasis
One element will stand out if contrasting colour or texture is used. When using the pie chart, one segment may be visually separated.
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Balance
The total visual space of each image should be balanced. This is created by deliberately positioning different elements in relation to each other. For example, formal (symmetrical) or informal (asymmeterical) balance.
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Clarity
Numbers and letters should be large enough to be easily read. Use horizontal labels and ensure there is clear reference shown to suggest zero so that the chart is not misread.
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Scale
Develop data so that it will not appear disproportionate to the image conveyed. Use consistent grid increments on both axes. Be aware of graphic exaggeration.
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Use of colour and shading
By ordering colours from light to dark the elements will appear to be next to one another. Lighter colours tend to stand out. Take care when using red in a business context as it connotes failure.
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Textures and patterns
Avoid juxtapositioning garish patterns that cause distortion. Vertical lines make vertical bars appear taller. Bolder textures can distort the way information is perceived; for example, solid or bold colours suggest greater importance.
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Use of grid lines
Use only sufficient grid lines to help the eye follow and interpret the data. Grid lines are best kept to the background or omitted unless they help viewers interpret the information or are a subtle design element of the chart. Grid marks may be sufficient.
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Line thickness
Chart lines should not be all the same thickness and type. Grid lines should have the lightest weight, with solid lines for primary data and broken lines for secondary data, projections and extensions. Use dots for missing data. When using colour, remember that light colours come forward and dark colours recede.
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Placement of numbers and labels
Legibility of all numbers and letters is essential. A simple (san serif) type is preferable. Usually scale figures are on the left side of the Y axis, however, they can appear on the right side if the upward progess is to the right.
All labels should be horizontal so they can be read without tilting the head. In any series of charts, the lettering style should be consistent with no more than three letter sizes to any one chart.
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