Principles of Good Design
Visual Design Choices
Choosing the right visualisation is fundamental to how effectively we communicate data insights. On this page, I explore how the same dataset (counts of different gender identities) can be represented through four distinct chart types: vertical bar chart, horizontal bar chart, treemap, and circular packing. Each of these visual forms has its own strengths and limitations depending on the design purpose, user tasks, and cognitive accessibility considerations.
By comparing these charts side by side, we can better understand how different visual encodings emphasise certain aspects of the data, how they shape user perception, and what design trade-offs are involved. For example, bar charts excel at precise value comparisons due to their aligned baselines, while treemaps and circular packings provide a sense of proportion and hierarchical grouping but may obscure exact quantities.
As you interact with the dropdown menu to view state-specific or nationwide results, consider how each visualisation guides your interpretation. This exercise underscores a key design principle: form should follow function. Effective interactive dashboards deliberately choose visual forms that align with user needs, illuminate insights clearly, and build trust through clarity and accessibility.
Design elements to consider
- Zero-origin axis.
- Proportional bar sizing.
- Appropriate orientation (vertical vs. horizontal).
- Clear category labels.
- Consistent and meaningful sorting order.
- Adequate spacing between bars.
- Avoidance of 3D effects or chart junk.
- Use of colour sparingly and strategically.
- Readable axis titles and units.
- Concise, informative chart title.
- Optional data labels (only where necessary).
- Accessible colour palette (e.g. colour-blind safe).
- Legend clarity (if multiple groupings or colours used).
- Avoidance of excessive decorative elements.
- Proper scale intervals for axis readability.
Showing gender identity data nationwide, across all México.