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1. Introduction

Dashboards in Xtraleap are visual representations of key data and metrics, designed to provide insights, support decision-making, and communicate information effectively. They often display real-time or near-real-time data, using a combination of charts, tables, maps, and other visual elements. This documentation provides an overview of dashboards in Xtraleap, their key components, design principles, and differences between standalone dashboards and a portfolio of dashboards.

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2. Key Components of a Dashboard

A well-designed dashboard typically includes the following components:

  • Visualizations: Charts, graphs, tables, and other visual elements that represent the data in an easily understandable format.

  • Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Metrics that provide insights into the performance and success of a specific area or process.

  • Interactivity: Features that allow users to interact with the dashboard, such as filters, sliders, or drill-down capabilities, enabling users to explore the data in more depth.

  • Context: Labels, annotations, and tooltips that provide context and explanations for the data and visualizations.

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3. Design Principles for Dashboards

When designing a dashboard, consider the following principles:

  • Simplicity: Keep the design simple and focused, avoiding clutter and unnecessary visual elements.

  • Clarity: Ensure that visualizations and labels are clear and easy to understand, using appropriate chart types and descriptive labels.

  • Consistency: Use consistent design elements, such as colors, fonts, and chart styles, to maintain a cohesive visual identity.

  • Hierarchy: Organize the dashboard layout in a logical hierarchy, prioritizing the most important information and visualizations.

  • Responsiveness: Design the dashboard to adapt to different screen sizes and devices for an optimal viewing experience.

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4. Standalone Dashboards vs. Portfolio of Dashboards

There are two main approaches to creating dashboards in Xtraleap: standalone dashboards and portfolios of dashboards. Each approach has its advantages and use cases:

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Standalone Dashboards:

A standalone dashboard is a single, self-contained visualization that focuses on a specific topic or area of interest. It is typically designed for a specific audience and purpose, providing a snapshot of key metrics and insights.

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Advantages of standalone dashboards:

  • Focused Content: Standalone dashboards provide targeted information, making it easier for users to quickly grasp the main insights.

  • Simpler Design: With fewer elements and less complexity, standalone dashboards are generally simpler and faster to create and maintain.

  • Easier Sharing: As a single visualization, standalone dashboards are easier to share and distribute to stakeholders.

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Portfolio of Dashboards:

A portfolio of dashboards is a collection of related dashboards, each focusing on a different aspect of the data or targeting a specific audience. These dashboards may be organized by purpose, audience, or subject matter, and can provide a comprehensive view of the organization’s data and performance.

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Advantages of a portfolio of dashboards:

  • Comprehensive Insights: A diverse set of dashboards provides a more comprehensive view of the data, addressing various perspectives and levels of detail.

  • Targeted Information: Dashboards tailored to specific audiences and purposes ensure that stakeholders receive the most relevant and actionable insights.

  • Scalability: A portfolio of dashboards can be more easily scaled and expanded to accommodate new data sources, metrics, and requirements.

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5. Best Practices

When creating dashboards, whether standalone or within a portfolio, consider the following best practices:

  • Focus on Clarity and Simplicity: Design dashboards that are clear, simple, and easy to understand, avoiding clutter and unnecessary visual elements.

  • Maintain Consistency: Use consistent design elements, such as colors, fonts, and chart styles, across your dashboards to maintain a cohesive visual identity.

  • Provide Context: Include labels, legends, and tooltips to provide context and explanations for the data and visualizations in your dashboards.

  • Responsive Design: Ensure that your dashboards are responsive and adapt to different screen sizes and devices for an optimal viewing experience.

  • Accessibility: Design dashboards that are accessible to users with different abilities, such as those with visual impairments, by using appropriate colors, contrast, and text sizes.

Portfolio of DashboardsIndividual Visualizations