Accessible Complexity: the Friendly Data Graphic
Friendly:
- Words spelled out
- Words run left to right
- Little messages explain data
- Labels on the graphic; no legend needed
- Graphic provokes curiosity
- Blue contrasted with others
- Clear, precise, modest type
- Type is Mixed Case, With Serifs
Unfriendly:
- Abbreviations abound
- Vertical words, or different directions
- Graphic requires references to text
- Encoded shadings, colors, cross-hatches require legend
- Chartjunk is repellent
- Red and green contrasted
- Clotted, overbearing type
- Type is ALL CAPS, SANS SERIF