1 Deliver messages

The SAY group contained in the layout rules deals with the message of the contents to be conveyed. It is assumed that a written report or a verbal presentation either as a whole or in sections, such as text passages, numerical evaluations, and visual indicators, are there to convey messages to the readers and listeners. 
The design rules presented here concern the Message in the stricter sense of the word and its Enhancement in the text or exhibit; they pertain to the Title of charts and tables as well as the corresponding Explanations in the form of notes or footnotes.

1.1

Express message: Say what must be said

The term Message encompasses what reports and presentations as a whole as well as their individual components are intended to convey to the reader. Messages in this sense can be determinations, indications, definitions, explanations, excuses, justifications, warnings, and other similar statements. Rule 1.1.5 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

1.2

Highlight messages: Underline what is important

The message to be conveyed should be highlighted using the appropriate visual means in all report objects, such as charts, tables, and graphs. It is perceived as a sign of quality when the message is clearly highlighted in the object used. Highlighting ensures that the message to be conveyed will be supported by the corresponding object (chart, table, graph). Rule 1.2.2 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

1.3

Name title: Clear and complete

A title identifies the contents of the report object, such as measures and their dimensions. Typical elements of a title concept indicate the legal entity in question (company, enterprise...) and the division mentioned (location, department, project...), the measure represented with units, as well as the dimensions, categories, and evaluation notes needed for comprehension. Rule 1.3.1 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...

1.4

Give explanations: Understandable texts

Explanations include all short texts, such as clarifications, notes, and footnotes, which can provide better understanding of the message to be conveyed. As opposed to long texts consisting of several chapters and paragraphs, explanatory short texts contain either only one or a few sentences. The purpose of these texts is to provide brief and concise explanations which facilitate comprehension of the message. Rule 1.4.3 is shown on the left as an illustration. More...