Some people think that numbers people read data differently than graphics people. Is that true? Does this sub-division of the homo numericus really exist? And if so, do we need to present information [...]

You can find time series comparisons in almost every newspaper, business journal and political magazine. Although they are frequently used in the media, these charts can be very misleading. What you should [...]

People often use stacked charts to compare components - but the effect rarely works. Learn why that is and what alternatives are available.

Graphical elements are supposed to focus your attention on what is important. What they actually show, however, is often misleading. How can you avoid embarrassing mistakes? For starters, just steer clear [...]

What else can we gain from all the extra space won through compact charts and information-dense visualizations? Insight, of course!

We've already explored a laid-back approach to management reporting. For the more athletically inclined, we have a high-performance alternative. The key? Resolution.

When managers and statistics collide, less is often more. In general, however, there are not enough statistics in data visualizations. The only requirement is that they need to be robust.

Dense, straightforward charts are rare. As a student, I was amazed how the graphic designers at management consultancies worked with such meticulous detail. Years later, I am convinced that we simply [...]

Charts can bore us to death when they try to entertain us with decoration instead of data.

Sachsen LB could have at least tried to. Their board of directors trusted a few traffic lights. They were usually green, but now all German taxpayers see is red.

Each analysis is a comparison at heart. The possibilities today are not endless. Which ones are important as part of your analytical tool set?

“Good management is boring” says Peter Drucker and “If you want excitement, don’t go to a good management information system.” We should reflect on this statement if we do not want to amuse [...]