Dashboard inflation
In economics it is common sense: the more is of something, the less valuable it becomes. This idea is surprisingly relevant when it comes to creating dashboards.
The reason your dashboards lack
One of the most common issues with dashboards is that they contain too much data. While it might seem logical that more data would lead to more insights, the opposite is often true.
When a dashboard is cluttered with too much information, it can become overwhelming and difficult to navigate, ultimately leading to a lack of insights.
The paradox of information overload
This paradox can leave both developers and users puzzled. Despite the abundance of data, the dashboard fails to provide the necessary information. This is where the concept of “dashboard inflation” typically begins.
Users do not get the information they need from the existing dashboard. In response, they request more detailed data, which leads to an even more cluttered and less informative dashboard.
Over time, this can result in a dashboard that is no more useful than a complex spreadsheet, losing its intended purpose and effectiveness.
You need actionable insights
The core issue lies in the approach when adding data without considering how it translates into actionable insights. The real value of a dashboard is not the sheer amount of data it presents, but how well it suits the needs of the user.
An additional layer of complexity is that users often do not know what they exactly need to see from the data.
How to fight dashboard inflation
To combat dashboard inflation, it is essential to focus on what visualizations are necessary to provide the right insights, rather than simply adding more data. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve this:
Prioritize clarity over quantity: There is never a lack of options, so the magic word here is FOCUS. Focus on the most critical data points that provide insights that are needed. Avoid cluttering the dashboard with unnecessary details.
Ask the right questions: When users request additional data, ask them why they need it. Understanding their underlying needs can help you provide more targeted and useful information.
Simplify visualizations: Use simple and clear visualizations that are easy to interpret. Complex charts and graphs can often add to the confusion rather than clarify the data.
Iterate and improve: Continuously seek feedback from users and make iterative improvements to the dashboard. This ensures that it remains relevant and useful over time.
Conclusion
Dashboard inflation is a common issue that can significantly impact the usability and effectiveness of your dashboards, and can waste a lot of resources. By focusing on translating data into actionable insights and understanding the true informational needs of your users, you can create dashboards that are both informative and user-friendly. Remember, the goal is not to present as much data as possible, but to provide clear and meaningful insights that drive informed decision-making.
If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date about the world of dashboard design and data visualization!