3.1 Space

3.2 Data

3.3 Elements

3.4 Interrelations

3.2 More data per area

Condense data: More data per area

We refer to an increased level of data density when more data (numbers, symbols, texts) is shown on the area of projection or print. Of course, this density has its limits which are usually found in the resolution of the medium used. Assuming today's standard of five or ten elements in one PowerPoint slide, then an exhibit with the intended 50 to 100 elements would have ten times the level of data density - and the presentation then only one-tenth the number of slides.

3.2.1

Show overlay charts

It saves space when charts, that had previously been placed on several pages or shown on the same page next to one another, are now placed on top of one another. This can also facilitate comprehension such as, for example, in the combination of the development of sales (as a series of columns) and the return on sales in percent (as a line). This approach can, however, only be used for a few chart combinations.

3.2.2

Show small multiples

In nearly every case, the overview and comprehension of complex relationships are substantially improved when homogeneous and related charts are not placed next to one another on one page or screen, but rather when they are displayed together on the same page. Typical applications are charts for several countries, products, or projects placed next to one another. Of course, there is an upper limit which depends on the font size and the degree of legibility of the visualization elements used. 

3.2.3

Show multi charts

Similar to small multiples, another solution is to combine various chart types for different topics, often known as dashboards. This approach offers the same advantages, including data density and a higher level of comparability – but it is also a more demanding visual and technical solution because a uniform notation concept, clear terms, and an understandable scaling are required here as well.

3.2.4

Show more elements

It is easy to show how the comprehension of numerical series with good graphic design is not rendered more difficult by displaying more data points in a series of numbers. For example, a monthly statistic on the number of staff over twelve months in a year would be understood as quickly as for the same data series with twelve months for each of the last three years – in other words, a total of 60 data points. Quite the contrary, usually important relationships are only first detected with an increased number of elements in a data series, which would not have been visible with fewer elements.

3.2.5

Show more details to avoid manipulation of scaling

In practical charts, scaling is often only manipulated (e.g. "cut axes ") because small changes in large figures could otherwise not be perceived as changes at all. Often in such instances, one useful approach is to analyze the values on one or two levels “lower” – this way the density can be broken up by the calibration this approach produces.

3.2.6

Show visual elements integrated within tables

Tables can then be examined faster for substantial outliers or deviations if suitable visualizations (usually bar charts) are used in addition to numerical values.