Datasheet

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CHAPTER 1 BUSINESS REPORTING PARADIGMS
The lower column chart plots time relative values above or below a target or threshold line. Bars are
also colored to add qualitative context.
The previous example showed charted values on a scaled grid with detailed labeling. Often times, too
much information produces unnecessary noise and defeats the purpose of a report. The example in
Figure 1-12 combines sparkline charts in-line with tabular details. It is a report pattern that provides
a balance of specific detail and high-level trend analysis that can help a report consumer get the big
picture without becoming overwhelmed and lost in the details. This simple example uses sparklines to
show the annual sales trend. If this visual is interesting to the reader, he can click the chart and drill
through to a detail chart report showing a measured and scaled view of the same data.
FIGURE 1-12
Different users need more or less information than others and one report may not provide the appro-
priate level of detail for every data consumer. One of the great challenges in report design is tuning the
detail and presentation of important data facts to the audience. For example, a simple gauge or trend
line may be an appropriate graphical metaphor for a poster or advertisement for a donation campaign.
But a production plant or robotic assembly line operating engineer will spend most of his or her time
watching an operating console and may need to monitor a lot of detailed information in a relatively
small area of screen space.
The example in Figure 1-13 takes a comprehensive approach, providing more useful information in
a smaller space. This report is the result of many generations of design. The line chart at the top of
the report shows detailed trend lines on a scaled grid with axis labels. The large chart acts as a zoom
feature, showing details when a user clicks on one of the smaller sparklines in the tabular report area