Charts and Graphs Guide
Recommended Styles and Tips for Charts and Graphs
Purpose
This style guide will ensure the following criteria:
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All text is legible by outlining font size, colors, and hierarchy;
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White-space is used effectively to reduce unnecessary clutter;
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Optimized layouts are used for varying data;
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Color is used logically, consistently, and strategically;
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The most effective chart or graph is used to convey the data set;
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Labels are introduced only when necessary, and only when practical;
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The analyst is informed of best practices;
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OIA branding is followed and consistent.
Creating Effective Charts/Graphs
To create effective charts, research, edit, plot, and review the chart or graph.
Research
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Research the most current data. If the data changes in the span of time the chart or graph is being developed, add the new data.
Edit
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Identify the key message.
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Choose the best data series to illustrate the point.
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Filter and simplify the data to deliver the most impact to the customer.
Plot
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Choose the right chart type to present the data.
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Label the chart or graph (e.g., title, legend, X/Y axis).
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Use OIA guidelines for color and typography.
Review
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Check the plotted data against your sources.
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Use judgment to evaluate whether the chart makes sense.
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Try to look at the chart from the customer’s perspective.
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Coordinate chart or graph if necessary. ​
Typography
The typography for charts and graphs should be Calibri Light, except where indicated.
Title
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Calibri Regular (14 pt.)
X/Y-Axis
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Calibri Light (11 pt.)
Legend Title
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Calibri Light (11 pt.)
Legend Text
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Calibri Light (11 pt.)
Chart/Graph Text
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Calibri Light (11 pt.)
Classification and Source​
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Calibri Light Italic (9 pt.)
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Color
Pie/donut chart, bar charts, stacked bar charts
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Use one color or shades of one color (see approved colors below).
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To highlight a particular segment of a pie/donut chart or a bar/stacked bar chart, use a lighter shade of the selected color (e.g., if green is selected for the pie/donut chart, use a lighter shade of the same green to highlight a particular segment).
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Line, stacked bar, area, dual axis, water fall, and scatter charts
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Use contrasting colors (see approved colors below).​
Action Steps
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Determine which chart/graph best represents the data.
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Review the recommended style, following font type, size, and colors.
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Follow “Creating Effecting Charts/Graphs."
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Send final draft of the chart/graph with the underlying data to the analyst assigned. CC the vis analytic support mailbox.
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Follow the progress of your project through the vis analytic tracking site on KME.
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Questions regarding the style guide can be directed to the vis analytic support mailbox.
Prerequisite Actions
Before beginning this style guide, analysts will need:
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Microsoft Excel or,
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Tableau.