Tech

What Is a Stacked Chart and What Are Its Uses?

Grasp the intricate system of data representation through this comprehensive study on stacked charts. Discover how diverse sectors benefit from this graphical display that enables an effortless understanding of multiple datasets. Keep reading to tap into the world of stacked charts.

Defining Stacked Charts

Alt text: Businessman using tablet device to learn what is a stacked chart

A stacked chart represents data in a manner that segments are ‘stacked’ one over the other. It uses various shades, colors, or patterns to indicate different data sets. This depiction of multiple data sets in one chart simplifies data analysis and promotes better understanding. The chart is inclusive of different data types while suiting the needs of diverse sectors.

The layout of a stacked chart is principally aimed at portraying the cumulative effect of several data sets. Knowledge about what is a stacked chart can elevate your interpretation of complex data. The intuitive design of these charts allows a swift comprehension of the proportional contribution of individual data sets to the total sum.

Despite its complex structure, the easy-to-understand interfacing of stacked charts makes it a favorite of many. It offers a host of options—from variable depth and 100% stacked bar charts to stacked area charts. Users can select the one that fits their exact requirements and handle multiple data complexities.

The Systematics of Reading a Stacked Bar Chart

The process of reading a stacked column chart requires a specific level of understanding and attention. Each bar or line denotes a whole, and the segments represent the parts of the whole. Thus, the stacking provides a view of overall data and data set comparison simultaneously.

Further, the lower stack represents the first data set. The successive ones follow up. By viewing them together, it’s plausible to understand how each segment performs and contributes to the total sum. Also, it’s necessary to note that the order of the data sets is crucial; altering this order can lead to misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the data.

More often, the chart manifests the data sets in percentage form. Therefore, the scale can be easily analyzed, and fairy accurate comparisons can be made. However, it can be challenging to analyze the trends of individual data sets when they’re not at the bottom of the stack due to the irregular base.

Industries Utilizing Stacked Bar Charts

Stacked graph have found applications in multiple sectors due to their versatility. The finance sector uses it to interpret complex financial data effortlessly. It helps ascertain the overall performance of an investment portfolio and individual asset types.

Similarly, the health sector deploys stacked bar charts to compare the patient count in various departments. It aids in understanding the flow of patients and helps manage healthcare services strategically. The chart also finds application in project management for tracking the use of various resources over time.

In the marketing and sales sector, a stacked graph is highly beneficial for tracking sales data. It can segregate the data based on different products, regions, or salespersons. Thus, it offers an edge to businesses by enabling data-driven decision-making.

Best Practices for Designing Stacked Bar Charts

Alt text: Two employees with laptops determining what is a stacked chart and what data to use for the chart

When designing a stacked plot, one should be clear about the message or the data that needs to be communicated. The chart’s design should be tailored to portray that data precisely. One must also ensure that the total height or length of the chart represents the total of the data.

Another important factor is the order of the data series. It’s typically suggested to put the most important data points at the bottom. This placement allows easy comparison and understanding. Further, each section should be clearly differentiated by using contrasting colors.

It’s also advantageous to limit the number of data series in the chart. Too many data sets may make the chart cluttered and challenging to understand. Lastly, always provide a comprehensive legend that explains what each color or pattern in the chart represents.

Overall, understanding and utilizing stacked bar charts can significantly improve your data interpretation skills and make decision-making easier and more efficient.