#data visualisations

Do not use more than 20 colours in a visualisation. The fewer - the better.

Before using every possible colour to represent different data points, stop and consider human limitations. When it comes to data and associations of colour to specific data points, we need to remember that if we use too many colours, the purpose of colour associations will be dulled. To ensure the viewer can logically understand data, it is safer to stick to fewer than 10 colours.

Use colour to create a sense of belonging within data points.

One of the most effective ways to make use of colour in data visualisations is to show belonging between data points. Splitting up data with colour to show product categories makes it very easy for the viewer to navigate and understand the visualisation.

Image Source

In the graph above, we see how each colour represents a specific year. This category separation ensures that the graph is easy to read and understand

Use consistent colours across various visualisations to indicate relationships between data in different visualisations clearly.

The last practice ensures that all charts that share the same data values are effectively persistent. See the example from Patrik Lundblad’s article below:

In the second graph, we see the relationship between the tree map and the graph is consistent.